In 2012 there were almost 300,000 car accidents in New York State and of these almost 1,100 were fatal. Car accidents are obviously frequent and can be very serious. If you have been in a car accident it is important to consider hiring one of our car accident attorneys who are familiar with the changing laws in New York State.
Texting While Driving
Forty years ago texting didn’t exist so forty years ago the laws didn’t cover texting while driving. As the world changes, the law changes with it. In many states, New York included, laws have been imposed regarding texting while driving. It has been reported that people who text while driving are 23 times more likely to crash. Police officers are able to search cell phone records and figure out if a driver was using their cell phone during or before the car accident.
Serious Injury Threshold
In New York the victim of the injury must establish that the injury exceeds a serious injury threshold. The following would meet this requirement:
- Basic economic loss greater than $50,000
- Death
- Dismemberment
- Serious disfigurement
- Loss of use of an organ, permanently
- Loss of pregnancy
- Fracture
If another driver was negligent in a car accident that caused you injury, you may deserve compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, damage of your car, and pain and suffering. An experienced car accident attorney can negotiate with the insurance company so you receive a fair financial compensation. The driving laws change over time and a car accident attorney will be aware of how the current law impacts your case. Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson have successfully represented clients in texting while driving accidents as well as other types of car accidents (drunk driving, distracted driving, tractor-trailer, pedestrian-vehicle, etc). Contact us for a free consultation.
