Who is responsible for my medical expenses following an accident on Staten Island?
As the victim, you typically have to arrange payment for your medical expenses initially, even if the accident was caused by someone else. Although you may seek compensation via a personal injury lawsuit, the responsible party is not directly obligated to pay your medical bills at the onset.
Any compensation awarded from your lawsuit may help you manage the medical costs retroactively. Exploring different methods for handling and paying these often substantial bills linked to significant accidents is essential.
Can I obtain compensation if I was partly to blame for my injuries on Staten Island?
Yes, even if you hold partial responsibility for your injuries, you may still qualify for compensation in Staten Island. New York adheres to a “pure comparative negligence” rule, meaning your compensation is reduced by your fault percentage.
This means if you were deemed 20% at fault in a car crash and the total damages were $10,000, your compensation would be diminished by 20%, granting you $8,000.
The comparative negligence system allows for compensation even if you are at fault, provided the other party holds some responsibility. Handling shared fault cases can be intricate, involving thorough investigation and legal scrutiny; hence, consulting with a skilled personal injury lawyer is advisable to maximize your compensation and safeguard your rights.
Am I entitled to file a claim if I wasn’t injured?
You are eligible to file a claim if you have endured damages due to another’s negligence, usually reflected in physical injuries from an accident. Nonetheless, claims can also cover property damage, such as vehicle repair costs following an accident, without personal injury.
Additionally, you might be entitled to compensation for emotional distress caused by the accident, contingent on the specifics of your case.
However, suppose you have not sustained any physical or property damages from an incident despite its potential danger. In that case, you typically cannot pursue a personal injury claim against the negligent party.
It is recommended that you consult with a lawyer to assess your situation and potential for a claim based on emotional distress or other non-physical damages.