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 Yonkers

Yonkers Accident Guidance

Motor Vehicle Accident Legal Help

If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident in Yonkers, The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC can help you understand your options and protect your interests. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. and the firm provide practical, client-focused assistance with insurance claims, evidence gathering, and negotiations with other parties. Our approach is to listen closely to your situation, gather the facts that matter, and explain the legal process in plain language so you can make informed decisions. Call (845) 986-2777 to learn how we can help you move forward after a crash in Westchester County or the Hudson Valley.

Motor vehicle accidents range from minor fender-benders to life-altering collisions involving serious injuries and property damage. Common issues after a crash include dealing with insurance adjusters, documenting injuries and medical care, and preserving evidence such as photos, witness information, and police reports. Timely action matters because insurance timelines and legal deadlines can affect your ability to recover compensation. We work with clients to identify the types of losses that may be recoverable, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and to pursue a practical path toward a fair resolution.

How Legal Guidance Helps After a Motor Vehicle Accident

Having clear legal guidance after a motor vehicle accident can reduce stress and improve the chances of a fair outcome. A lawyer can assist by communicating with insurance companies, collecting and preserving evidence, and advising on the value of a claim based on medical records and lost income. Legal help can also identify additional responsible parties, such as employers or vehicle owners, and coordinate claims when multiple insurers are involved. Importantly, a focused legal approach helps ensure important deadlines are met and that settlement offers are evaluated against the full scope of economic and non-economic losses you have suffered.

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

The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC serves clients throughout Yonkers, Westchester County, and the Hudson Valley, focusing on personal injury matters arising from motor vehicle collisions. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. represents individuals who have sustained injuries or property loss and works to develop case strategies tailored to each client’s circumstances. The firm places emphasis on clear communication, thorough case preparation, and practical advice about the possible pathways to resolution. Clients can expect responsive guidance about insurance interactions, evidence collection, and realistic timelines for claim resolution in New York.

Understanding Motor Vehicle Accident Claims

A motor vehicle accident claim typically centers on whether a driver or other party acted negligently and whether that conduct caused injury or loss. In New York, establishing negligence involves showing that a duty existed, that the duty was breached, and that the breach caused measurable harm. Claims can involve multiple insurers, medical providers, and evidence sources such as police reports, traffic camera footage, and witness statements. Understanding which damages are likely to be recoverable and how fault is allocated helps shape the demands made to insurers and the documentation needed to support compensation for medical care, lost income, and other losses.

The practical steps in a motor vehicle accident claim often include timely medical evaluation and treatment, documenting all expenses and losses, obtaining a police report, and preserving photographs and witness contact information. After evidence is compiled, formal demand and negotiations with insurers usually follow. If a negotiated resolution cannot be reached, filing a lawsuit may become necessary. New York also imposes procedural deadlines, so acting promptly helps protect legal rights. A focused plan for investigation and communication improves the likelihood of a constructive settlement or a well-prepared court claim when needed.

Need More Information?

Key Terms and Glossary for Motor Vehicle Claims

Negligence

Negligence refers to a failure to act with the care that a reasonably careful person would exercise in similar circumstances, resulting in harm to another. In the context of motor vehicle accidents, negligence can include behaviors such as distracted driving, running a red light, speeding, or failing to yield. To succeed in a negligence claim, it is typically necessary to show that the negligent conduct caused the injuries and losses being claimed. Gathering evidence like witness statements, traffic citations, and accident scene photos helps demonstrate how negligence occurred and its connection to the harm suffered.

Comparative Fault

Comparative fault is the legal concept that allows a reduction in recovery when an injured person bears some portion of responsibility for their own harm. New York follows a comparative fault approach where any award can be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the claimant. This means a person who was partly at fault can still recover compensation, though the amount will be adjusted to reflect their share of responsibility. Clear documentation of the accident, witness accounts, and objective evidence can influence how fault is allocated between parties.

Damages

Damages is the term used for the monetary compensation sought for losses caused by an accident. Damages may include economic losses like medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and property damage, as well as non-economic losses such as pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life. The value of damages depends on the severity of injury, the need for ongoing care, and the demonstrable impact on daily activities and work. Proper documentation, including medical records and bills, is essential to establish the amount of damages that should be pursued.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations is the legal time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit arising from a motor vehicle collision. In New York, the period for most personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. Missing the applicable deadline can prevent a court from hearing your claim, though certain exceptions may apply in specific situations. Because procedural timelines can affect the ability to seek compensation, it is important to seek timely advice and to preserve relevant evidence while records and memories remain fresh.

PRO TIPS

Preserve Evidence Promptly

Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, visible injuries, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the crash as soon as it is safe to do so. Collect contact information from witnesses and obtain a copy of the police report to help corroborate what occurred. Retain any physical evidence and create a contemporaneous record of symptoms, appointments, and expenses to support later documentation of losses and recovery needs.

Communicate Carefully with Insurers

Be mindful when speaking to insurance adjusters, as statements made early on can influence claim handling and settlement offers. Provide factual information about the collision but avoid offering detailed admissions of fault or speculative statements about injuries. Keep records of all communications with insurers, and request that written communications confirm what is said so there is a clear, contemporaneous record of discussions and offers.

Follow and Document Medical Care

Seek prompt medical attention and follow prescribed treatments and follow-up plans to support both your recovery and your claim for compensation. Keep detailed records of all medical visits, test results, treatments, prescriptions, and related expenses, and maintain a journal describing pain levels, mobility changes, and the impact on daily life. These records form the foundation for demonstrating the nature and extent of injuries when pursuing reimbursement for medical costs and other related losses.

Comparison of Legal Options After a Motor Vehicle Accident

When Full-Service Legal Help Is Advisable:

Serious Injuries or Complex Liability

When an accident results in severe injuries, extensive medical treatment, or long-term impairment, a comprehensive approach helps ensure all present and future losses are accounted for in settlement discussions. Complex liability issues, such as multiple at-fault parties or corporate defendants, benefit from a coordinated investigation and negotiation strategy that brings together medical records, accident reconstruction, and insurance analysis. A full-service effort also prepares the case for litigation if a fair resolution cannot be reached through initial settlement talks.

Multiple Parties or Insurance Disputes

Accidents involving multiple vehicles, commercial carriers, or coverage disputes often require careful analysis to determine responsibility and to identify all potentially liable insurers. When insurers dispute coverage or downplay the severity of injuries, a comprehensive response that compiles medical evidence, witness statements, and documentation of economic losses strengthens the claim. Coordinating communications among insurers and interested parties reduces the risk of overlooked claims and helps preserve the ability to pursue full compensation when needed.

When a Limited Approach May Be Sufficient:

Minor Injuries with Clear Fault

If injuries are minor, fault is clearly established by a police report or clear witness statements, and medical expenses are limited, a more focused, limited approach can resolve the matter efficiently. In those situations, gathering essential documentation and negotiating directly with an insurer may produce a fair settlement without the need for prolonged dispute. However, even when injuries seem minor, documenting care and symptoms carefully protects the ability to address later-developing issues.

Small Property Damage Claims

Property-only claims with minimal damage and no reported injuries often resolve through direct insurer handling and repairs handled by body shops or rental arrangements without extensive legal involvement. When the losses are limited and liability is not contested, focused settlement discussions and documentation typically suffice to secure reimbursement for repairs and related costs. It remains important to ensure repair estimates and invoices are preserved so the full scope of property damage is clearly demonstrated in any claim.

Common Circumstances in Motor Vehicle Accident Cases

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions frequently produce soft-tissue injuries, neck and back strains, and vehicle damage, and they often raise questions about following distance and distracted driving; documenting medical care, photos of damage, and witness accounts helps establish the sequence of events and the extent of injury. Prompt treatment, clear records of symptoms, and preserved scene evidence are important to support claims for medical costs, lost earnings, and compensation for reduced quality of life following these common accidents.

T-Bone or Intersection Crashes

Side-impact or intersection collisions can result in serious injuries due to the angles and forces involved and may require analysis of traffic signal status, witness statements, and possible vehicle or roadway defects to determine responsibility. Collecting police reports, photographs, and any available video along with medical documentation helps establish causation and supports fair assessment of damages for injury and property loss.

Multi-Vehicle or Chain Reaction Crashes

Chain reaction crashes often involve multiple at-fault drivers and layered insurance issues that can complicate recovery for injured individuals, making thorough investigation and clear record-keeping particularly valuable. Coordinating evidence from different vehicles, identifying all insurers, and tracking medical and wage losses supports a coherent claim that seeks appropriate compensation from the responsible parties.

Yonkers Motor Vehicle Accident Legal Services

Why Choose Ahearne Law Firm for Yonkers Motor Vehicle Claims

Clients turn to The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC for focused attention to the details that matter in motor vehicle accident claims, including clear communication about process and reasonable expectations for resolution. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. emphasizes working closely with clients to collect relevant evidence, coordinate medical documentation, and pursue communication with insurers in a way that seeks fair compensation. The firm’s approach is grounded in practical problem solving and consistent contact so clients understand next steps and important timelines throughout their claim.

We provide initial consultations to review the circumstances of a collision and identify the strongest routes to resolve a claim, whether through negotiation or filing suit when necessary. The firm typically handles personal injury matters on a contingency basis, which aligns the timing of fees with recovery and allows clients to pursue their claims without up-front legal fees. Our priority is transparent communication about potential outcomes, documentation needs, and realistic timeframes so clients can make informed decisions about how to proceed.

Contact Ahearne Law Firm to Discuss Your Accident

People Also Search For

Yonkers car accident lawyer

motor vehicle accident lawyer Yonkers

personal injury attorney Yonkers

auto accident claim Yonkers

car crash injury Westchester

hit and run Yonkers

truck accident Yonkers

rear end collision Yonkers

FAQS

What should I do immediately after a motor vehicle accident?

Immediately after a motor vehicle accident, check for injuries and seek emergency medical care if anyone is hurt, because timely treatment protects health and supports later documentation of injuries. If it is safe, move to a secure location, call the police to report the collision, and exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers. Taking photographs of the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries preserves evidence that will be helpful in any later claim. Gather witness names and contact details and request a copy of the police report when it becomes available. Document all medical care, keep receipts and records of expenses, and avoid making detailed fault admissions to others at the scene or to insurance adjusters without first understanding the implications. Report the accident to your insurer promptly and provide accurate facts without speculation. Preserve any relevant physical items and create a contemporaneous log of symptoms and treatments to support a claim for compensation if needed, and consider contacting a law firm to help coordinate evidence and communications with insurers.

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

In New York, the general deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit for injuries from a motor vehicle accident is typically three years from the date of the crash, though exceptions and special rules can apply in particular situations. It is important to act promptly because evidence and witness memories fade, and missing the filing deadline can prevent a court from considering the claim. Early consultation helps identify the correct deadline that applies to your case and any steps that should be taken immediately to preserve rights and evidence. Even when a lawsuit is not necessary right away, timely investigation and documentation are essential to support insurance negotiations or future litigation if needed. Gathering medical records, accident reports, photos, and witness statements soon after the collision makes it easier to establish what happened and the extent of injuries. If there is concern about timing or potential tolling rules that might extend or modify deadlines, seeking legal guidance early will help protect the option to pursue a claim within the legal timeframe.

Will my case go to trial or can it be settled with the insurance company?

Many motor vehicle accident claims are resolved through negotiation with insurance companies rather than by trial, because insurance carriers often prefer to reach settlements that avoid courtroom costs and uncertainty. A negotiated resolution may be appropriate when liability and damages are well-documented and the parties agree on a fair amount to compensate medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. Preparing a strong demand package with medical records, billing statements, and a clear statement of losses increases the chance of securing a reasonable settlement without litigation. If insurers deny responsibility, undervalue the claim, or a settlement cannot be reached that fairly addresses current and future losses, filing a lawsuit and proceeding to court may become necessary. Preparing for trial involves additional investigation, witness preparation, and legal filings, and it creates leverage that can encourage more serious settlement offers. The decision to file suit is based on the circumstances of each case, the strength of the evidence, and the client’s goals for resolving the claim.

How is fault determined in a New York car accident?

Fault in a New York car accident is typically determined by examining how the collision occurred and whether a party failed to exercise reasonable care under the circumstances. Evidence such as police reports, traffic citations, witness statements, photographs, and any available video can establish which actions or omissions contributed to the crash. In some situations, reconstruction experts or technical records may be needed to clarify the sequence of events and the role of each vehicle involved. New York applies comparative fault principles, so the allocation of responsibility among involved parties can affect recovery amounts. Insurance adjusters and courts will analyze the physical evidence and testimony to apportion fault, and this allocation directly affects the compensation available to an injured person. Clear documentation and credible witness accounts are important to present a persuasive view of how responsibility should be assigned.

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

Yes, in New York you may recover compensation even if you are partly at fault, because the state follows a comparative fault approach that reduces recovery by the claimant’s percentage of responsibility. For example, if a jury or insurer determines you were partially responsible for the accident, any award or settlement would be adjusted downward to reflect that share of fault. This rule allows injured people to pursue damages while accounting for shared responsibility when appropriate. To protect the full amount you can reasonably seek, document all evidence that supports a lower share of fault and emphasize facts that show the other party’s responsibility. Medical records, scene photos, witness statements, and objective documentation of hazardous conditions or traffic signals can influence how fault is allocated. Pursuing a thorough investigation helps reduce the risk of an unfair percentage assignment and improves the prospects for fair compensation.

What types of damages can I seek after a motor vehicle crash?

After a motor vehicle crash, injured individuals may seek recovery for economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, prescription expenses, transportation to medical appointments, and lost wages or diminished earning capacity. Property damage recovery typically covers vehicle repairs or replacement and related expenses such as rental cars while repairs are completed. Detailed billing and records are essential to substantiate these economic losses when negotiating with insurers or presenting a claim in court. Non-economic damages address intangible harms such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life resulting from the accident and injuries. The amount for these losses is based on the severity and duration of physical and psychological impacts and is supported by medical documentation, testimony about how daily activities have changed, and evidence of long-term effects. Demonstrating a consistent course of care and the realistic impact of injuries strengthens the case for compensating non-economic harms.

Should I give a recorded statement to the insurance company?

Insurance companies may ask for recorded statements early in the claims process to gather information about the accident, but giving a recorded statement is not always required and should be approached with caution. Without full knowledge of potential injuries and the extent of future medical needs, statements made shortly after a crash can unintentionally compromise a later claim. It is reasonable to provide basic facts about the collision while reserving detailed or speculative comments until medical treatment and evidence gathering are more complete. If insurers request a recorded statement, you may ask for guidance before proceeding and consider consulting with a legal representative to determine the best course. A lawyer can advise on what information to provide and may communicate with insurers on your behalf. Protecting the integrity of your statements and ensuring the record reflects accurate, measured information helps preserve the strength of any later negotiations or legal action.

How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a car accident case?

Many personal injury lawyers, including those handling motor vehicle accident cases, work on a contingency fee basis, meaning legal fees are paid as a percentage of any recovery and there are typically no up-front attorney fees for pursuing the claim. This arrangement aligns the timing of legal fees with the outcome of the case and allows individuals to pursue claims without the barrier of immediate legal costs. The specific percentage and whether expenses are advanced are matters to review in an initial consultation and written fee agreement. Clients should discuss with their attorney what costs may be deducted from a settlement, how expenses like expert fees will be handled, and what the fee agreement covers. Clear communication about fee structure, potential costs, and anticipated timelines helps clients make informed choices about representation and understand how fees are applied if a recovery is achieved.

How long will it take to resolve my motor vehicle accident claim?

The time to resolve a motor vehicle accident claim varies widely depending on the complexity of injuries, the need for ongoing medical treatment, the clarity of fault, and whether insurers are willing to negotiate in good faith. Some straightforward cases with clear liability and limited injuries can resolve in a few months, while claims involving serious injuries, disputed liability, or multiple parties may take a year or longer and sometimes require litigation. Medical stability and the ability to accurately project future care needs typically influence the timing of settlement discussions. If a lawsuit is filed, the process involves court schedules, discovery, and potential pretrial motions or trial, which extend timelines compared to negotiated settlements. Early and thorough documentation, prompt preservation of evidence, and proactive communication with insurers can help streamline the process. Setting realistic expectations about timing during the initial consultation helps clients plan for recovery, expenses, and potential temporary or long-term impacts on work and daily life.

What if the other driver was uninsured or underinsured?

When the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, recovery through that driver’s insurance may be limited, but there are other avenues to explore to address losses. Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may provide compensation for medical expenses and lost wages when the at-fault party lacks sufficient coverage. Reviewing available policy limits and coverage options early in the claim process helps determine what benefits may be accessed to cover medical bills and other damages. If no applicable coverage exists or the limits are inadequate, additional options may include pursuing a claim against other responsible parties, such as an employer or vehicle owner, or seeking compensation from personal assets if the at-fault party has resources beyond insurance. Each situation requires careful evaluation of coverage, potential defendants, and the likely recovery to choose the most appropriate path for pursuing compensation for medical care, lost income, and other losses.

Personal Injury Services in Yonkers

Explore our injury practice areas

⚖️ All Personal Injury Services