Millions of Americans take to the road each day. Each person brings with them their own history, or driving skills. Some drivers like to speed, while others are more affected by road rage and backed up traffic. Every person has their own way of managing their driving. Unfortunately, of those millions of Americans on the road, studies from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that approximately 5.5 million car accidents occur each year, with a little over 2 million injuries occurring as a result.
In New York, the figures show that teenage drivers were most likely to be involved serious automobile crashes. Drivers between the ages of 15-24 and over the age of 75 were most likely to either cause or have some part in crashes.
These are some of the most common reasons why car accidents occur:
- Drunk drivers
- Distracted drivers
- Tired drivers
- Texting and driving
- Speeding
- Changing lanes improperly
Some of these elements cannot be controlled, like the weather or other hazards on the road. However, what can be helped is when accidents occur due to a driver's negligence. Distracted drivers can be just as deadly as a drunk driver.
New York's No-Fault Law
The state has implemented the "no-fault" law, to pay for any injuries related a car accident, such as those inflicted on a passenger of another car, or pedestrian, regardless of who is considered "at-fault" for the accident. This has been a requirement of New York's law since the 1970's. In some ways, it can reduce some of the disagreements over fault that take place between insurance companies. On the other hand, if a terrible injury has occurred due to the crash, the injured person must meet the criteria for the "serious injury" threshold.
Experiencing any of the following can be considered a serious injury:
- Bone fracture
- Permanent disability of a body part or organ
- Limited use of a body function
- Dismemberment
- Disfigurement
- Full disability for 90 days
Those who have been involved in a car accident and have sustained a serious injury should get in touch with a New York personal injury lawyer immediately and fight for compensation.
The Law Offices of Mahir S. Nasir, P.C. is well-versed in a broad range of practice areas. Our founding attorney has gained a number of successful verdicts and positive results for clients, both individuals and for businesses. He believes in working to see that you needs are settled fairly and in your favor.
If you were injured during a car accident, discuss your case with the firm today during a consultation!