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Defensive driving is a valuable tool which should be utilized as often as one can. Unfortunately, even the best defensive drivers cannot prevent certain situations. Late afternoon one frigid winter morning, S.K. was peacefully driving straight along a busy city street. In the blink of an eye, he found himself desperately attempting to avoid a disastrous impending collision. The driver of the oncoming vehicle approaching his own had become distracted by loose objects that had dislodged on the dashboard, causing the vehicle to drift into S.K.’s lane and hit him head-on. Quickly transported to the hospital for extensive head injuries and fractures in his hand, S.K. was in great pain. He began to wonder if there was anything he could do and who he could reach out to for help. Referred to Hill & Moin by a close and trusted friend, it was then that he knew where to start. Looking back, S.K. raved that Attorney Eric Wittels was “phenomenal” to work with noting his professionalism, reliability, and patience as primary factors. Never left hanging, S.K. always found himself feeling reassured by the regular updates and ease of communication from staff through every step of his case. With a tenacious and carefully crafted approach, the attorneys at Hill & Moin procured a respectable settlement of $225,000. Grateful to have made it through his traumatic ordeal and newly aided with his settlement, S.K. intends to set his sights on the housing market to invest in owning a home.

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Emotions can run high after a car accident. It is easy to make mistakes during this stressful and confusing time. Some errors make little impact, but the aftermath of others can be devastating.

Avoiding costly missteps and making wise legal decisions is possible, especially with an experienced legal team on your side. At Hill & Moin, our lawyers treat our clients like family and work hard to secure the best outcome possible for every case.

The information below will help you to identify and steer clear of some of the most common mistakes that car accident victims make. Every case is different; whether it’s a rollover accident, a collision caused by a drunk driver, a failure-to-yield crash, a T-bone accident, or just a fender-bender, contacting personal injury lawyers can ensure you understand your legal options. Schedule your free consultation with us by calling (212) 668-6000 as soon as possible. 

Not Calling Traffic Authorities

The accident’s severity determines whether or not state law obligates you to get the police involved. For instance, under New York law, you must wait at the accident scene until police arrive or file an accident report within 10 days if:

• Someone is injured
• Someone dies
• The property damage exceeds $1000
• You cannot contact the owner of an injured domestic animal

Therefore, calling the New York police is not legally required for minor accidents with property damage amounting to less than $1000. You could exchange names and contact information.

Yet, there are good reasons to consider contacting a police officer for your car crash.

Here are some reasons why you should contact the police:

• Rules vary by state. You must check locally to learn your legal requirements after a motor vehicle crash.
• When police respond to an accident, they make an accident report. This official record can be invaluable evidence for your personal injury claim.
• Symptoms of car accident injuries, especially whiplash, can appear days after the accident. The following section will discuss why you should seek medical treatment as soon after an auto accident as possible.
• A law officer can help you exchange information and verify the other involved driver’s license, insurance, and registration. He or she can also help you collect evidence, perhaps even noticing details you would have missed.
• Drivers sometimes change their account of events. A police report can establish essential facts of your case. You may find it valuable if the other driver tries to manipulate the truth or you lose accident documents. Remember, though, that anything you say can also be recorded and used against you in court.

Call the police if you suspect the other driver was at least partially responsible for the accident or committed a traffic violation, or if you’ve been involved in an accident with a driver from another state. If you are unsure, you can contact our law firm at any time of day or night.

Failing to Seek Medical Attention

You should call for emergency medical care if anyone is seriously injured in a car accident. However, is getting immediate medical attention necessary if you seem fine? Yes, getting checked by a doctor is crucial, even if you do not think you are injured.

Some injuries like those discussed below may not show immediate symptoms:

• Back injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Concussions
• Whiplash

By getting a professional medical opinion, you can ensure that hidden injuries are identified and treated early on, preventing potential complications in the future. Additionally, seeking medical treatment after a car accident is essential for personal injury claims.

Doctor statements play a significant role in these claims, providing documented evidence of your injuries and their severity. These statements can be used to support your case and help you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.

Assuming Fault for Car Accidents

Who is liable for the damages of a car accident? Even if the answer seems obvious, you should never assume.

Sometimes, drivers admit fault at first but change their minds later. In other cases, innocent drivers unknowingly take the blame, though the accident was not their fault. It is better to avoid admitting fault and let a professional investigate.

Identifying the at-fault driver in a car accident is a challenging and intricate task. Car accident claims must do more than point out the at-fault party. Conflicting accounts from the drivers and witnesses can further complicate the process of assigning blame.

A legal claim must also include solid evidence that proves that the other party is responsible for the damage. Determining fault requires a thorough investigation of the accident scene.

To establish and prove fault, an experienced car accident attorney will gather proof, such as:

• Witness statements
• Photographs and videos
• Police reports
• Traffic laws
• Evidence of weather conditions

Assuming fault is one of the gravest mistakes that can significantly impact the outcome of your car accident claim. Identifying the at-fault driver in a car accident is complex since this requires considering multiple factors and gathering convincing evidence.

Since insurance companies know that admitting fault is a vital issue, you should steer clear of hurting your car accident case. Consider the following actions you should avoid.

Apologizing

You may wonder, what is wrong with saying you are sorry after an auto accident? After all, your apology could be referring to the unfortunate circumstance or that another party suffered injuries.

Unfortunately, innocent remarks might be misinterpreted as accepting blame, which could be used against you by a court or insurance company.

Posting about car accidents on social media

Sharing details about your car accident or injuries on social media can have grave consequences for your insurance claim and legal case. Insurance companies are known for gathering evidence found online.

An insurance company can collect insurance information from comments, photographs, and videos found online to cast doubt on the severity of injuries. It might also claim that something posted on your account constitutes admitting fault.

Prioritize your well-being. If you want to record your experience, keep a private journal of your pain and suffering. Share the contents only with your car accident attorney.

Accepting a Settlement From an Insurance Company

A quick settlement might not be a fair settlement. Insurance companies want to make money. The less they spend on an accident claim, the more money they save.

Therefore, you cannot presume that an insurance company has your best interest at heart. So get a car accident attorney to review the insurance policies of all involved drivers, negotiate with insurance companies, and determine whether a settlement offer represents fair compensation for your case.

You might regret signing away your legal rights since you cannot seek additional compensation later. A small settlement could be insufficient for your medical bills for follow-up treatment.

Get Help From a Car Accident Attorney Without Delay

Failing to gather evidence of the significant aspects of an auto accident can invalidate an insurance policy and halt the legal process. Likewise, dealing with an insurance company without proper counsel can lead to an unjust settlement offer, a delayed payout, or even a rejected claim.

Why let a common mistake negatively impact your future? We can offer you Personal Injury Recovery SolutionsⓇ to resolve issues with your car accident case – sometimes before they start. If you have serious injuries or substantial vehicle damage, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our legal team right away.

An experienced attorney can answer your questions and guide you through the complex legal system. Take advantage of our free consultation service by calling (212) 668-6000 or filling out a contact form now. Our phone lines are open all day, all night, 365 days a year. Call now. 

Don’t wonder about your rights!

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H.M. was working as a food cart vendor preparing meals for hungry customers on the sidewalk. While he was working inside the food cart, a truck attempted to park behind him. The truck began reversing into the parking spot and forcefully struck H.M.’s food cart. This impact resulted in H.M. falling and sustaining injuries to his left shoulder, right knee, and neck that required immediate hospitalization and eventual surgeries.

H.M. reached out to a colleague who recommended that he contact Hill & Moin. During the free consultation, the attorney addressed his questions and concerns and laid out their plan of action. The lawyers litigated fiercely and H.M.’s case settled for $775,000.

When H.M. was informed of the settlement, he was surprised and very pleased. H.M. described his experience with Hill & Moin as excellent and stated that the communication throughout the case was great. H.M. was very satisfied with Hill & Moin’s representation in his case and stated that he would highly recommend their office to his family and friends should they need legal representation.

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In New York City, hit-and-run accidents occur frequently, with thousands of cases reported each year. Hit-and-run accidents are not just frightening and dangerous; they can also leave victims and their families feeling lost and unsure of what to do next.

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run driver, you may wonder about your legal options for seeking justice and compensation. At Hill & Moin, our experienced hit-and-run accident lawyers are dedicated to fighting for justice on behalf of our clients.

With over 40 years of experience, our team understands the complexities of hit-and-run cases and the need for justice many victims feel. That is why we provide personalized attention and strategic representation to help victims and their families seek the compensation they deserve. Are you ready to learn about your Personal Injury Recovery SolutionsⓇ? Call Hill & Moin today to schedule a free consultation.

What Is an NYC Hit-and-Run Accident?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a crash flees the scene without providing his or her contact information, such as phone numbers, waiting for the police if someone is killed, or assisting an injured person. Sadly, in New York, hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately not uncommon.

Despite the prevalence of such incidents, make no mistake: fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime with serious legal consequences. Whether it is a pedestrian being struck on the street or a car collision where the at-fault driver decides to flee, these heartless acts often leave individuals critically injured without any accountability from the perpetrators.

Victims of hit-and-run accidents may face physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens as they try to recover from the incident. In some instances, hit-and-run accidents may claim the life of an innocent victim and leave the surviving family feeling helpless.

Hope for NYC Hit-and-Run Victims and Their Families

Victims of hit-and-run accidents in New York City face significant challenges, from seeking compensation to navigating the legal system. However, there is hope for injured individuals and their families.

Let us discuss the following legal options for injured ones and their families:

• Filing an insurance claim
• Pursuing a lawsuit

• Utilizing the NYC crime victim compensation programs

Why Some Choose to Pursue a Personal Injury Lawsuit

In a lawsuit, you can pursue damages for various losses, including medical expenses and lost wages. Compensation for such damages can provide victims with a more comprehensive recovery.

Some victims and their families may choose not to pursue a lawsuit for the following reasons:

• Longer process: Lawsuits can be prolonged and complex, often taking months or even years to resolve. The legal process involves various stages, including discovery, motion practice, and potentially a trial. The lengthy process can add stress and uncertainty to an already challenging situation.
• Higher costs: Pursuing a lawsuit can incur significant expenses, including court fees, expert witness fees, and attorney’s fees. While many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, you may still be responsible for certain costs throughout the legal proceedings.
• No guaranteed results: Despite the strongest evidence and legal arguments, litigation always has a degree of uncertainty. There is no guarantee of winning a lawsuit or receiving the amount you feel you deserve. If the court rules against you, you may not be compensated for your injuries and damages.

The Pros and Cons of Filing an Insurance Claim

There are several benefits to filing an insurance claim, including:

• Faster resolution: One advantage of filing an insurance claim is potentially quicker resolution. Insurance companies typically aim to settle claims efficiently to avoid prolonged legal proceedings, which means you may receive compensation for your injuries and damages more promptly.
• Less stressful: Dealing with insurance companies can often be less stressful than navigating the complexities of the legal system. Insurance claims typically involve straightforward procedures, such as filing paperwork and providing documentation of your injuries and expenses, without the need for formal litigation.
• No upfront legal fees: When filing an insurance claim, you generally won’t need to worry about paying legal fees upfront. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.

Still, there are reasons why some choose not to pursue this route for compensation. Insurance policies often have coverage limits, meaning there may be a cap on the amount of compensation you can receive. If your damages exceed these limits, you may not recover the full extent of your losses through an insurance claim alone.

Additionally, insurance companies may dispute your claim or offer a lower settlement than you believe you deserve. This could lead to negotiations or even arbitration to reach a fair resolution, prolonging the process and potentially delaying your compensation.

Crime Victim Compensation Programs in NYC – A Lifeline for Hit-and-Run Victims

Hit-and-run incidents are a crime under New York law; for residents of New York City, the Office of Victim Services Victim Compensation program offers a vital lifeline for those affected by hit-and-run incidents. Here’s what you need to know about it.

Payer of last resort

The program operates as the “payer of last resort.” It means that the NYC Office of Victim Services provides compensation only after all other available resources, such as insurance coverage, have been exhausted.

Application process

The application process typically involves providing detailed information about the incident and any documentation relevant to the case. Additionally, applicants may be required to cooperate with law enforcement and attend court proceedings related to the crime.

Every case is unique, and determining the right option for your family is not always easy. It is wise to consult a personal injury lawyer for help deciding the best option for you.

Financial Recovery for Hit-and-Run Crash Victims

Whether you choose to file a lawsuit or pursue an insurance claim, there are various types of compensation available to help you recover from the physical and financial impact of the incident.

Compensation may include coverage for losses such as:

• Vehicle repairs
• Medical expenses if you were hospitalized or bills for medication, and any other healthcare services
• Lost income due to time taken off work during the healing process

In cases where victims experience long-term or permanent disabilities as a result of the car accident, you may also seek compensation for future loss of earning capacity or ongoing medical care needs.

To help you seek compensation, a lawyer can:

• Conduct a thorough investigation to determine how the crash happened
• Gather evidence and identify the at-fault driver
• Determine whether the driver was intoxicated or some other factor contributed to the accident
• Navigate complex insurance laws and policies
• Negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of the victim to secure fair compensation
• Represent the victim in court to pursue a lawsuit for additional damages
• Handle all communication and paperwork with insurance companies and legal entities

Hurt by a Hit-and-Run Driver? Let Us Help You Seek Justice

Have you or a loved one been involved in a hit-and-run accident in New York City? From filing a claim to potentially pursuing a lawsuit, the steps you take after such a traumatic event can greatly impact your ability to recover damages.

Whatever route you choose to pursue justice, working with experienced personal injury lawyers can greatly strengthen your case. Lawyers have the knowledge, legal network, and resources to build a compelling argument on your behalf thoroughly.

Seeking help from experienced attorneys like Hill & Moin, LLP, can make all the difference. When you hire us to advocate for you, we can guide you through the complex legal process and work toward securing the compensation you deserve.

Remember that you do not have to navigate this challenging situation alone. By reaching out to professionals who understand the nuances of hit-and-run cases, you can focus on healing while they handle the legal aspects on your behalf. To schedule a free consultation and discuss your Personal Injury Recovery SolutionsⓇ, call us at (212) 668-6000.

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Working at a hair salon can often be exciting and dramatic but for receptionist Frank D’Amico, one unfortunate day will forever stand out. He arrived at work and spent several hours completing his tasks and assisting customers. Crossing the salon floor to assist a coworker, Frank paused to lean on a glass showcase. Suddenly, an out-of-control vehicle exploded through the front wall of the salon, completely obliterating the spot Frank D’Amico had stood in just moments before. Sending debris and Frank himself flying, he landed among layers of broken glass and the rubble of the destroyed storefront. Terrified, confused, and in pain Frank D’Amico knew he was lucky to be alive. After receiving life-saving treatment for the injuries he sustained, he recognized the importance of reaching out to a well-decorated personal injury firm with experienced attorneys who could provide him with the relief he sought. When recounting his experience putting his trust in Hill & Moin, he appreciated the cordial and helpful demeanor shown by staff throughout his case. Through application of knowledge and determination, the attorneys at Hill & Moin were able to negotiate Frank D’Amico colossal settlement of $750,000. With the fresh start he found in his monetary reward, Frank D’Amico plans to invest in himself by becoming a property owner.

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As a professional hair stylist, being creative and imaginative were key elements of S.G.’s lifestyle. But even she could not have envisioned that what should have been another routine day in the sunny salon she worked in would turn into a real-life nightmare. Initially off to a calm start, S.G. spent the first several hours of her day working her way through her usual routine. She crossed the reception floor to speak to a coworker, stopping to stand next to the windows of the salon front. Unanticipatedly, a wayward vehicle violently lurched through the front wall of the building, coming alarmingly close to crushing S.G. in its wake. The impact forcefully launched her across the salon’s floor, leaving her severely injured and deeply traumatized. Once stabilized in the care of her medical treatment team, S.G. knew the next step was to reach out to an established personal injury firm. She wasted no time calling the skilled attorneys at Hill & Moin, LLP. When reflecting on her relationship with the staff, S.G. noted that everyone was consistently communicative and kind. She was grateful for the persistence of the attorneys who had successfully managed to obtain a seven-figure settlement for all that she had lived through. Striving to move past this life-changing event, S.G. has set aside a small but much-deserved leisure and self-care fund with a long-term goal of becoming a homeowner and continuing to invest in her future.

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As a professional hair stylist, Mandy M. was no stranger to living a life that demanded her to be quick on her feet. Despite this, nothing could have prepared her for what she would experience when she arrived at the salon for another seemingly ordinary day. Before tragedy struck, Mandy M. was busy working on a client’s hair. Immersed in her work, she was suddenly rocked by a force resulting from the impact of a careening vehicle that had plunged into and through the front wall of the salon. Sent hurling sideways, Mandy M. landed on the floor among glass and rubble leaving her frightened, disoriented, and wounded. Once she had checked in with her coworkers out of concern and tended to her own pressing need for medical attention, Mandy M. became aware of her next move. Turning to the compassionate yet tenacious personal injury attorneys at Hill & Moin, LLP, she could finally breathe her first sigh of relief. Looking back on her ordeal Mandy M. was impressed by the quality of communication, noting the attentive nature of both attorneys and support staff alike. She was appreciative of the clarity, feeling included and well-represented from start to finish. With a firm resolve to bring Mandy M. the relief she sought, the masterful and well-versed attorneys at Hill & Moin, LLP secured her a six-figure award. Now armed with a newfound financial security, Mandy M. hopes to work with financial professionals within the beauty industry so that she may invest in her passion.

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New York is an area known for its constant hustle and bustle and sometimes, not even having the “Walk” signal in the crosswalk can keep you safe on the roads. This was the ill-fated truth for P.H. one day when she was on her way to get her tablet fixed at a local repair shop. Walking down a street that she had traveled many times before, it seemed to be a day like any other. Approaching an intersection, P.H. looked up at the crosswalk signal to confirm the presence of the “Walk” symbol before entering the street. All clear, she proceeded into the crosswalk and began to cross. When she had all but made it to the other side, a vehicle appeared seemingly out of nowhere striking P.H. She landed on her back and hit her head on the pavement, sustaining serious injuries in the process. P.H. knew that what happened to her in the intersection was not right, but she didn’t know where to turn for assistance. Grateful to be put in touch with the hard-working attorneys at Hill & Moin, P.H. thanked them for their vigorous approach to negotiating a settlement for her suffering. She felt comforted by the reliable communication from staff at Hill & Moin throughout every step of the way, noting how every concern she had was addressed with knowledge and kindness from support staff and attorneys alike. With this traumatic event now in her past, P.H.’s plans are to savor her life one day at a time. P.H. intends to use her newfound relief secured by Hill & Moin to focus on enjoying all the little things she holds dear, like never missing out on her favorite cup of coffee.

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On a chilly winter afternoon, Mr. K innocently went out for a stroll around his neighborhood to enjoy the sights of the season. Unbeknownst to him, disaster was waiting just around the corner. Mr. K approached an intersection and entered a crosswalk with permission from the pedestrian traffic signal and began to cross the street. Unexpectedly and without notice, a vehicle entered the crosswalk as well, failing to see Mr. K in the process of crossing the street and striking him down. The collision resulted in serious damage to Mr. K’s health, leaving him with injuries to the left side of his body on his shoulder, wrist, hand, and knee. His injuries were severe enough to warrant the need for reparative surgery. Thankfully for Mr. K, Hill & Moin, LLP was ready to jump into action. Speaking of his experience with the professional and courteous staff of Hill & Moin, he noted that their level of communication went above and beyond his expectations. Whether it was dealing with support staff or the attorneys directly, Mr. K was never left with an unresolved question. As testimony to Mr. K’s claims, Hill & Moin, LLP secured him a significant settlement. With his newfound relief and hope for the future, Mr. K is planning to build his savings account so that he may treat himself to all the little things in life that bring him joy.

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When Alex E headed out to deliver orders for UberEats, winding up injured and traumatized before the end of his shift was far from the outcome he expected. Riding on his e-bike, Alex E was lawfully passing through an intersection on a green light when he was unexpectedly hit by a vehicle making a left-hand turn. Sent flying through the air, he made impact with the windshield before rolling over the hood and landing on the pavement below. As a result, he suffered shoulder, neck, and back injuries requiring costly medical treatment. But when he was put in touch with Hill and Moin, LLP, things began to look up. Describing the staff as “absolutely great”, Alex E raved that the performance of Hill and Moin, LLP was above and beyond what he expected when they successfully negotiated a whopping $670,000 settlement! He expressed his delight with the swift way his case was resolved due to the hard work and diligence of his attorneys and their supporting staff. Grateful to have found the office of Hill and Moin, Alex E is looking forward to not only opening both emergency and investment funds, but also enrolling in law school and beginning the next chapter of his life.

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