A+ rating on Better Business Bureau•Google reviews: 5.0•Martindale Hubbell Client Rating: 5.0•Lawyers.com Client Rating: 5.0•Avvo Client Rating: 5.0•Facebook Rating 5.0•Best Dog Bite Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Car Accident Lawyers – Middletown, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•A+ rating on Better Business Bureau•Google reviews: 5.0•Martindale Hubbell Client Rating: 5.0•Lawyers.com Client Rating: 5.0•Avvo Client Rating: 5.0•Facebook Rating 5.0•Best Dog Bite Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Car Accident Lawyers – Middletown, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)

Motor Vehicle Accidents Lawyer in Garden City, NY

Garden City Accident Support

Motor Vehicle Accident Guide

If you or a loved one were injured in a motor vehicle crash in Garden City, Nassau County, prompt action can make a significant difference for recovery and any claim. The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC assists residents across the Hudson Valley with clear guidance after collisions, helping to gather evidence, coordinate medical documentation, and explain options. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. and the team are available to discuss the circumstances of your incident, outline practical next steps, and help you understand potential paths forward. Call (845) 986-2777 to speak about your situation and learn how to protect your rights after a crash.

A motor vehicle accident can be disorienting and overwhelming, whether it involves cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians, or cyclists. Immediate priorities include health and safety, followed by documenting details and preserving evidence such as photos, witness information, and the police report. Understanding insurance coverage and timely filing requirements is also essential in New York. The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC focuses on straightforward communication and practical assistance so injured people in Garden City know what to expect. Reach out to discuss how to preserve important records and next steps for obtaining reimbursement for medical costs, lost income, and other damages.

Benefits of Legal Assistance After a Crash

Seeking experienced representation after a motor vehicle accident helps ensure that medical records, repair estimates, and other vital evidence are gathered and presented in a timely manner. An attorney can coordinate investigations, obtain police reports, interview witnesses, and consult with appropriate medical or accident reconstruction professionals when needed. That coordinated approach often leads to clearer claims and a stronger position in negotiations with insurers. For people in Garden City, knowledgeable representation also means someone who understands local courts and insurers, who can track deadlines and advocate for a fair outcome while you focus on recovery and treatment.

About Ahearne Law Firm and Allan J. Ahearne, Jr.

The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC serves clients throughout the Hudson Valley and Long Island with a focus on personal injury matters arising from motor vehicle accidents. Founded to provide attentive client service and clear communication, the firm handles claims from initial investigation through negotiation or court proceedings when necessary. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. meets with clients to review factual details, evaluate medical records, and explain legal timelines that apply in New York. For Garden City residents, the firm offers practical guidance, local knowledge, and a commitment to helping injured people pursue fair compensation while they concentrate on recovery.

Understanding Motor Vehicle Accident Claims

Motor vehicle accident claims commonly involve determining who was responsible, documenting injuries and economic losses, and negotiating with insurance companies to resolve bills and lost income. In New York, many claims begin with no-fault insurance benefits for medical costs, but some situations allow additional claims when injuries exceed threshold requirements. Types of incidents include rear-end collisions, intersection crashes, sideswipes, single-vehicle accidents, and incidents involving trucks or motorcycles. Gathering medical treatment records, imaging, and repair estimates early helps establish a clear causal link between the crash and claimed damages. Understanding the legal path available in each case starts with collecting accurate, timely evidence.

Timing matters in motor vehicle matters in New York because of filing deadlines and evidence preservation. For most personal injury claims, the statute of limitations sets a fixed window to bring a claim, which means careful attention to deadlines and documentation is essential. Preserving photographs, victim and witness statements, and medical provider records can be decisive when fault is disputed. In addition, maintaining continuity of medical care and detailed records of expenses related to the crash helps establish the full scope of damages. Discussing these aspects early with counsel can prevent avoidable mistakes and support a more complete claim outcome.

Need More Information?

Key Terms and Glossary

Negligence

Negligence describes a failure to use reasonable care that leads to harm to another person. In the context of motor vehicle collisions, negligence can include actions such as failing to stop at a light, speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield. To establish a negligence claim, a person typically must show that the other party owed a duty of care, breached that duty through their conduct, and caused an injury and resulting damages. Demonstrating those elements usually requires evidence like police reports, witness testimony, medical records, and documentation of expenses and lost income caused by the crash.

Comparative Fault

Comparative fault is a legal concept used to allocate responsibility when more than one party may have contributed to an accident. New York applies a form of comparative negligence that reduces a claimant’s recovery in proportion to their share of fault. For example, if a jury determines a claimant was partly at fault, the award is reduced by the claimant’s percentage of responsibility. Understanding how comparative fault may apply to your case requires careful review of accident facts, witness statements, and any available video or photographic evidence to show the relative roles of involved drivers and third parties.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations sets the time period within which a legal claim must be filed in court. For most personal injury claims in New York, that time period is three years from the date of the injury, although there are important exceptions and variations depending on circumstances, parties involved, and the nature of the claim. Missing the applicable deadline can prevent a case from being heard. Because these deadlines can be specific and sometimes complex, documenting the date of the accident and seeking timely information about filing requirements is important to preserve the right to pursue compensation.

No-Fault Insurance (PIP)

No-fault insurance, commonly called personal injury protection or PIP, provides initial coverage for medical expenses and certain economic losses regardless of who caused the crash. In New York, these benefits often cover immediate medical treatment, but claimants may need to meet specific criteria to pursue additional compensation for pain and suffering or long-term damages. Understanding how no-fault benefits interact with other insurance coverages, such as uninsured motorist protection or third-party liability policies, is an important early step in managing a motor vehicle claim and ensuring that medical expenses are tracked and submitted correctly.

PRO TIPS

Document Everything Immediately

After a motor vehicle collision, begin documenting details as soon as it is safe to do so. Take photographs of vehicles, road markings, skid marks, traffic signals, and visible injuries; record names and contact information for witnesses and other drivers; and obtain the responding officer’s report number and badge information if possible. Keep a written account of how the accident happened and preserve any receipts for medical treatment, repairs, towing, and rental vehicles. This contemporaneous documentation can be invaluable in reconstructing events and supporting claims for medical costs and other damages during later negotiations.

Seek Prompt Medical Care

Obtaining medical attention promptly after a crash is important both for your health and for a clear record of injuries connected to the accident. Even if symptoms seem mild at first, medical providers can document conditions that later become more serious and recommend appropriate follow-up care or imaging. Maintain copies of all medical records, bills, and treatment plans and be sure to attend appointments without long gaps in care. That continuity helps show the relationship between the crash and your injuries and supports claims for compensation for treatment and related costs.

Talk Carefully to Insurers

Communications with insurance companies should be handled with care because adjusters often seek statements or information that could affect claim value. Provide necessary factual information such as policy numbers and basic accident details, but avoid giving detailed recorded statements or signing broad medical release forms without understanding the implications. If you are working with counsel, direct adjusters to that representative for substantive discussions. Keeping records of every call, email, and settlement offer helps maintain a clear chronology of communications when resolving the claim.

Comparing Legal Options After a Crash

When Broader Representation Helps:

Serious Injuries or Complex Fault

Comprehensive representation is often beneficial when injuries are severe, long-term, or when liability is disputed among multiple parties. Cases that involve surgeries, long rehabilitation, or complicated medical care typically require a structured approach to gather expert opinions, reconstruct the accident, and calculate long-term economic and non-economic losses in a credible way. When multiple insurers, third-party claims, or commercial vehicles are involved, coordinated legal work helps ensure all potential avenues for compensation are explored and that documentation is obtained to support a full claim.

Complicated Insurance Claims

When insurers dispute coverage, deny claims, or assert policy limits that do not fully cover losses, broader legal assistance can help by identifying additional coverage sources and pursuing contested claims. Situations such as hit-and-run incidents, uninsured or underinsured motorists, and commercial carrier claims often require careful review of policy language and negotiation with multiple insurers. A comprehensive approach also helps address medical liens, subrogation issues, and coordination of benefits so injured people receive appropriate funds to cover treatment and other damages.

When a Limited Approach Works:

Minor Injuries and Clear Liability

A more limited approach may be appropriate for minor injuries with clear liability where medical costs are modest and fault is undisputed. In those cases, documenting treatment, submitting bills to an insurer, and negotiating a straightforward settlement can efficiently resolve claims without extended investigation. Claimants should still maintain records and be cautious with early settlement offers that may not fully reflect future medical needs. Even in simple matters, having someone review settlement terms can help avoid unintended waivers of further recovery rights.

Expedited Claims Under No-Fault

When injuries are minor and covered by no-fault medical benefits, the claims process can be administrative and focused on reimbursement for treatment and economic losses. Submitting completed bills and proof of treatment to the PIP carrier and following up with claim status updates often resolves these matters more quickly. That approach fits cases where medical care is short-term and there is no expectation of substantial ongoing treatment or permanent impairment. Still, tracking all related costs and ensuring accurate submission of no-fault claims remains important for fair recovery of expenses.

Common Situations We Handle

Intersection Collisions

Intersection collisions frequently involve conflicting witness accounts, signal timing questions, and multiple points of impact that complicate fault determinations. Gathering traffic camera footage, independent photographs, and thorough witness statements as soon after the crash as possible helps preserve crucial evidence and provides a clearer picture of events. For people injured in these scenarios, documenting medical treatment, vehicle damage, and out-of-pocket expenses supports claims for compensation while an investigation determines liability.

Rear-End and Whiplash Cases

Rear-end collisions often cause soft tissue injuries such as whiplash, which can present with delayed symptoms and require a sequence of medical visits to document recovery. Keeping consistent medical records, attending recommended therapy, and recording the progression of symptoms helps show the crash’s impact and supports claims for appropriate medical and non-economic damages. Insurance companies may initially minimize these injuries, so thorough documentation is important when pursuing fair treatment.

Hit-and-Run and Uninsured Drivers

When a driver flees the scene or lacks insurance, prompt reporting to law enforcement and quick notice to your insurer are essential steps to protect recovery options. Uninsured motorist or underinsured motorist coverages may provide compensation for medical bills and lost wages when the at-fault driver cannot be found or lacks adequate coverage, but these claims require precise documentation of the incident and damages to proceed effectively.

Garden City Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney

Why Choose Ahearne Law Firm for Motor Vehicle Claims

Residents of Garden City and Nassau County turn to the Ahearne Law Firm PLLC for careful attention to case details, clear communication, and local knowledge of courts and insurers. The firm assists injured people with organizing medical records, investigating accidents, negotiating with insurers, and preparing claims for court when necessary. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. meets with clients to review the facts and outline realistic next steps so people understand the options available to them and how to preserve their rights while focusing on recovery and family needs.

From the initial consultation through resolution, the firm emphasizes timely action and ongoing communication about case status, documentation needs, and potential outcomes. The team helps clients submit required forms, follow through with medical treatment, and coordinate with healthcare providers and insurers to support claims. For many clients, having a consistent point of contact who tracks deadlines and organizes evidence reduces stress and helps ensure that financial and care-related needs are addressed while the claim is pursued.

Get a Free Case Review Today

People Also Search For

Garden City car accident lawyer

Nassau County personal injury attorney

motor vehicle accident claim Garden City

Garden City auto collision attorney

New York motor vehicle injury lawyer

Ahearne Law Firm motor vehicle accidents

Allan J. Ahearne Jr. Garden City

Hudson Valley personal injury lawyer

FAQS

What should I do immediately after a motor vehicle accident in Garden City?

Immediately after a collision, prioritize safety and health by moving to a safe location when possible and seeking medical attention for injuries. Report the incident to the police so there is an official record, and obtain a copy of the police report when available. If it is safe, take photographs of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Collect names and contact information from witnesses and other drivers, and note insurance and license details. Prompt documentation preserves evidence that may be important later. It is also important to notify your insurance company and to keep careful records of medical visits, treatment plans, prescriptions, and any time missed from work. Preserve receipts for out-of-pocket expenses related to the crash. Avoid providing detailed recorded statements to other insurers until you understand the full scope of medical treatment and damages, and consider contacting counsel for guidance on communications and next steps to protect potential recovery options.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in New York?

Most personal injury claims arising from motor vehicle accidents in New York must be filed within three years from the date of the accident, which is the common statute of limitations for personal injury claims. There are exceptions and special rules depending on the parties involved, whether a governmental entity is potentially liable, or if discovery rules apply. Given these nuances, preserving evidence and checking filing deadlines early helps maintain the option to pursue a claim if needed. Because missing the applicable deadline can bar a claim, it is wise to confirm the specific time limit that applies to your situation as soon as possible. Documenting the date of the crash, reporting to law enforcement, and keeping copies of treatment records and correspondence all support timely action. If you believe your case may involve unique circumstances, professional guidance can help identify any exception that affects the deadline.

What is no-fault insurance and how does it affect my claim?

No-fault insurance, often called PIP or personal injury protection, provides initial coverage for medical expenses and certain economic losses regardless of who caused the collision. In New York, PIP benefits commonly pay for necessary medical care and some lost earnings, which helps injured parties manage immediate costs. However, these benefits may not cover non-economic losses such as pain and suffering unless the injury meets statutory thresholds that permit a separate lawsuit against the at-fault party. Understanding how no-fault benefits interact with other coverages is important because the availability and amount of PIP can influence subsequent claims against other drivers or insurers. Injured people should submit medical bills promptly to the PIP carrier and track denials or disputes so that any additional legal options, such as pursuing third-party liability claims or uninsured motorist coverage, can be considered with accurate documentation.

Can I still recover damages if I was partly at fault for the accident?

Yes. New York applies a comparative fault standard that allows recovery even when a claimant shares some responsibility for the accident. Under this approach, a claimant’s total recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a court determines the claimant was partially responsible, the award is adjusted to reflect that share. Establishing the extent of fault for each party typically depends on evidence such as police reports, witness testimony, and photographs. Because partial fault can reduce compensation, documenting the facts of the collision, collecting witness statements, and preserving evidence that supports your account of the events are important steps. Presenting a clear chronology of treatment and damages also helps demonstrate the connection between the crash and injuries when assessing comparative fault and overall recovery amounts.

When should I contact an attorney after a crash?

You should consider contacting counsel as soon as practical after an accident, especially if you have significant injuries, complicated liability questions, or concerns about insurance coverage. Early consultation helps ensure evidence is preserved, witness statements are collected, and deadlines are tracked. Prompt guidance can also assist in submitting no-fault claims, responding to insurer inquiries, and avoiding mistakes that might limit recovery rights. Even in less complex matters, speaking with a legal representative early can clarify options, outline likely timelines, and identify the documentation needed to support a claim. Timely advice can make a meaningful difference in how a case progresses and in protecting your ability to pursue compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.

What types of compensation can I seek after a motor vehicle collision?

Compensation in motor vehicle collision claims can include reimbursement for medical expenses, payment for lost wages and reduced earning capacity, repair or replacement costs for damaged property, and compensation for pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life when applicable. Some claims may also seek damages for future medical care, rehabilitation, and household assistance if the injury results in lasting impairment. The exact types and amounts depend on the nature and extent of injuries and the available insurance coverages. Accurately documenting medical treatment, work interruptions, and out-of-pocket expenses helps support these claims. For cases with longer-term consequences, obtaining medical assessments about expected future care and associated costs can be important to capture the full scope of damages and present a credible valuation during negotiations or in court.

How do uninsured or underinsured motorist claims work in New York?

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages are designed to protect policyholders when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance or cannot be identified. If you have such coverage, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurer to recover medical costs, lost income, and other damages up to your policy limits. These claims often require the same evidence used in liability claims, such as police reports, witness statements, and documentation of medical treatment. Because uninsured motorist claims involve coordination between your carrier and primary liability carriers, careful documentation and timely notice to your insurer are important. Reviewing policy terms to understand limits, stacking options, and any notice requirements helps determine the best approach for pursuing compensation under uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.

Will my medical bills be paid while my claim is pending?

Whether medical bills are paid while a claim is pending depends on insurance coverage and the claim type. No-fault benefits and health insurance often cover initial treatment costs. If you have personal injury protection, that carrier may pay eligible medical bills directly. In other cases, medical providers may bill your health insurer and place liens or expect reimbursement from any eventual settlement or award. Keeping track of which parties paid for treatment and maintaining copies of bills and insurance correspondence supports later negotiations to resolve outstanding balances. If there are disputes about payment, coordinating with counsel and medical providers helps clarify obligations and ensure that treatment records and cost documentation are available for settlement discussions or court proceedings.

What should I bring to my initial consultation?

For an initial consultation, bring any information you have about the crash such as the police report, photographs, contact and insurance information for other drivers, and the names and contact information for witnesses. Also bring all medical records, bills, and receipts related to treatment, as well as documentation of lost wages or other financial losses connected to the incident. If you discussed the claim with any insurer, bring copies of correspondence and recorded statements if applicable. Providing a clear timeline of events and a list of questions you want addressed will help make the meeting productive. The firm will review these materials to explain likely next steps, deadlines, and documentation needs to pursue a claim, so organizing records ahead of time helps the consultation focus on the specifics of your situation.

How long does it usually take to resolve a motor vehicle injury claim?

The time to resolve a motor vehicle injury claim varies widely based on the severity of injuries, complexity of fault, number of parties involved, and whether the matter settles or proceeds to court. Some uncomplicated claims resolve in a few months when liability is clear and medical treatment is complete, while more serious or disputed cases can take a year or longer. Litigation timelines, expert evaluations, and discovery processes can extend the schedule when cases require thorough development. Working proactively to collect medical records, document losses, and pursue timely negotiations often speeds resolution. When settlement is not achievable, preparing a case for trial can add months for scheduling, discovery, and court procedures. Clear communication about expectations and milestones helps clients understand where their case stands and plan accordingly as it moves toward resolution.

Personal Injury Services in Garden City

Explore our injury practice areas

⚖️ All Personal Injury Services