At The Ward Law Group, we pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to serving the community, particularly the vibrant and diverse Hispanic-American community in Suffolk County.
For over 10 years, our firm has been dedicated to providing top-notch legal representation while actively engaging in initiatives to uplift and empower those around us.
As advocates for justice and community service, we understand the profound impact that reckless driving accidents can have on individuals and families.
Whether it's a devastating collision caused by excessive speeding, reckless lane changes, or driving under the influence, the aftermath of such accidents can leave victims facing immense physical, emotional, and financial hardships.
Our mission goes beyond legal advocacy; it encompasses a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients and the broader community. We firmly believe everyone deserves access to justice and fair compensation, regardless of background or circumstances.
That's why we stand shoulder to shoulder with our clients, providing unwavering support and guidance every step of the way.
Through our extensive experience and expertise in handling reckless driving accident cases, we have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of reckless behavior on our roadways.
Our traffic lawyers have witnessed families torn apart, lives forever altered, and communities left grappling with the aftermath of senseless tragedies.
In response to these challenges, The Ward Law Group remains steadfast in its commitment to fighting for justice and accountability. We leverage our legal skills and resources to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions and secure the compensation our clients deserve. But our work doesn't stop there.
At The Ward Law Group, our commitment to serving others isn't just a slogan – it's the guiding principle that drives everything we do. An expert reckless driving attorney from our firm will help you pursue the compensation you deserve after a hard experience!
How Can a Lawyer Assist After a Car Collision in Suffolk County?
Navigating the aftermath of a car collision can be overwhelming, especially when faced with the daunting task of calculating damages and seeking compensation. In this challenging situation, turn to The Ward Law Group for expert legal guidance and support.
Our team of dedicated car collision attorneys in Suffolk County is here to alleviate your stress and guide you through every step of the process. Here's how we can help:
- Thorough Investigation: We'll compile evidence, interview witnesses, police officer report, get a driving record and criminal record, manage license suspension, and obtain a copy of the crash report to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Communication Management: Dealing with insurance companies and other parties can be daunting. Let us handle all communication on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected, and your best interests are represented. Be aware of insurance rates.
- Damage Assessment: We'll assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering, to determine the compensation you deserve accurately.
- Negotiation and Settlement: Our experienced negotiators will skillfully negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement offer that fully compensates you for your losses.
- Trial Representation: If necessary, we'll advocate for you in court. Our trial-tested attorneys will vigorously argue your case and pursue justice.
But our commitment to you goes beyond legal representation. At The Ward Law Group, we prioritize client communication and involvement throughout the process.
Your attorney will keep you updated on the progress of your case and remain accessible to address any questions or concerns you may have along the way.
With The Ward Law Group by your side, you can trust that your rights will be protected, your voice will be heard, and your best interests will always be our top priority.
Don't navigate the complexities of a car collision alone – reach out to us today for the dedicated legal advocacy you deserve. Being charged with reckless driving, it's not a joke! You must get the best legal advice to move forward in this situation!
Compensation Available in a Suffolk County Reckless Driving Accident Claim
In Suffolk County, New York, drivers and motor vehicles must carry no-fault insurance policies, which provide coverage for medical expenses, transportation costs, and lost income in the event of an accident.
However, these benefits may not fully cover the extent of your damages. If your losses exceed the limits of your insurance coverage, you may have the right to pursue additional compensation through a third-party claim or lawsuit against the negligent driver.
Seeking damages beyond what is covered by your insurance policy can include:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for past and future medical bills related to injuries sustained in the reckless driving accident, including hospital bills, surgeries, medication costs, rehabilitation expenses, etc.
- Lost Income: Reimbursement for wages lost due to missed work during recovery from injuries sustained in the accident, as well as compensation for any future loss of earning capacity resulting from permanent injuries or disabilities.
- Property Damage: Coverage for the repair or replacement of damaged property, such as your vehicle, personal belongings, or other items damaged in the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional pain, trauma, and suffering endured as a result of the accident and its aftermath. This includes compensation for mental anguish, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other non-economic losses that cannot be quantified easily.
While no-fault insurance typically does not cover pain and suffering, pursuing a third-party claim against the at-fault driver allows you to seek compensation for these non-economic damages.
At The Ward Law Group, our experienced attorneys are committed to helping you recover the full and fair compensation you deserve for your losses. Contact us today to explore your legal options and protect your rights after a reckless driving accident in Suffolk County.
Understanding Reckless Driving Under New York State Law
In New York, reckless driving is defined by Section 1212 of the Vehicle & Traffic Law (VAT). This statute specifies that any driving behavior that unreasonably endangers public highway users or interferes with other road users constitutes reckless driving.
Examples of reckless driving behavior include:
- Road Rage: Aggressive and hostile behavior exhibited by a driver towards other motorists, pedestrians, or cyclists on the road.
- Driving under the Influence: Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs poses a significant risk to oneself and others on the road. This could mean driver's license suspension.
- Speeding: Driving at speeds exceeding posted limits or too fast for current road conditions.
- Illegal Passing: Overtaking other vehicles unsafely, such as passing on the shoulder or in a no-passing zone.
- Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely leaves insufficient stopping distance and increases the risk of a rear-end collision.
- Running Red Lights: Disregarding traffic signals and proceeding through intersections against a red traffic light.
- Disregard for Traffic Signals: Failing to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, ignoring stop signs, or disobeying other traffic control devices.
- Weaving in and out of Traffic: Erratic lane changes without signaling or cutting off other drivers abruptly.
Engaging in reckless driving behavior is not only dangerous but also illegal, and it can result in misdemeanor charges.
Gathering Evidence in Reckless Driving Accident Cases
Gathering evidence that substantiates your case is essential to support your claim for compensation after a reckless driving accident. Common forms of evidence in these cases include:
- Police Report: Detailed documentation of the accident, including the parties involved, witnesses, injuries sustained, and a description of the events leading up to the collision.
- Photographs: Visual evidence of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and any contributing factors.
- Video Footage: Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras capturing the collision and its aftermath.
- Medical Records: Documentation of injuries sustained in the accident, including ambulance records, hospital visits, diagnostic tests, treatments, and medical expenses.
- Traffic Citations: Any citations issued by law enforcement to the at-fault driver for reckless driving or traffic violations.
- Witness Testimony: Statements from eyewitnesses providing objective accounts of the events leading to the accident.
Additionally, any other relevant information or documentation supporting your case should be provided to your attorney to strengthen your claim and maximize the compensation you seek.
At The Ward Law Group, we leverage this evidence to advocate for our clients and pursue justice.
Reckless Driving as a Form of Negligence
Reckless driving is a clear manifestation of negligence on the road. The following factors demonstrate this negligence:
- Duty of Care: Every driver is obligated to operate their vehicle responsibly and with regard to the safety of others.
- Reckless Behavior: Instead of fulfilling this duty, the driver engages in reckless actions, such as speeding, aggressive driving, or other dangerous behaviors.
- Resulting Accident: The reckless behavior leads to an accident, which can take various forms, including rear-end collisions, rollovers, head-on collisions, or side-impact crashes.
- Damages: As a consequence of the accident, you suffer financial and non-financial losses.
For a successful claim for compensation for your losses, all these elements must be present and demonstrable in your case.
Time Limits for Filing Lawsuits in Reckless Driving Cases
When considering legal action, it's crucial to be aware of the time limits imposed by the state. In New York, you typically have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit, as outlined in CPLR § 214.
However, for wrongful death lawsuits, the time limit is usually two years, as per EPTL § 5-4.1.
Some exceptions may extend or shorten these deadlines. For instance, the deadlines may be affected if the at-fault party leaves the state, if a minor is involved, or if a government agency is implicated.
To ensure compliance with these deadlines and to maximize your chances of a successful claim, it's advisable to seek legal representation promptly.
By engaging our services early in the process, we can guarantee that your lawsuit is filed within the applicable timeframe, safeguarding your right to seek compensation for your accident-related expenses.
The Importance of Initiating Your Claim Promptly
Commencing your claim without delay is paramount for several reasons beyond the statute of limitations. As time elapses, accessing and compiling evidence becomes increasingly challenging.
Witness recollections may fade, crucial details of the incident may become blurred, or witnesses might relocate without leaving contact information.
Furthermore, businesses often overwrite surveillance footage capturing the event after a short period.
Such evidence plays a pivotal role in substantiating your claims, and its absence can undermine your case significantly.
Common Injuries Resulting from Reckless Driving Accidents in Long Island
Reckless driving incidents frequently result in victims sustaining severe injuries, including but not limited to:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Back and neck injuries
- Whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Cuts, bruises, and abrasions
- Internal organ damage
- Road rash
- Chest and abdominal trauma
Many of these injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately after the accident, often taking days or weeks to become apparent. Hence, seeking medical attention promptly is imperative.
A thorough medical examination conducted by a qualified physician can diagnose injuries, prescribe necessary treatments, and initiate referrals to specialists for further care.
Timely medical intervention serves to strengthen your claim by establishing a direct link between the reckless driving incident and your injuries.
Conversely, delaying medical attention could give the insurance company grounds to dispute the severity or causation of your injuries, potentially jeopardizing your chances of receiving adequate compensation for your losses.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers in Suffolk County Today
If you've been injured in a reckless driving accident in Suffolk County, trust The Ward Law Group to provide the legal assistance you need. Our seasoned attorneys understand the complexities of such cases and are here to support you during these challenging times.
Allow us to assess your situation, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Your well-being is our top priority.
Don't hesitate to contact The Ward Law Group today at 855-DOLOR-55 to schedule your free consultation with one of our dedicated team members. We serve both English and Spanish-speaking clients.