Queens Car Accident Attorney
Legally Reviewed by:
Alex Nocerino
Alex Nocerino is a founding partner at our firm and a successful trial lawyer with roots in New York. He is a member of the New York State Bar Association, the New York State Trial Lawyers Association, and the American Association for Justice. He has helped injured individuals win hundreds of millions in compensation from large corporations, government entities, and wealthy landlords.
With 18 years of experience, he has been recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2019 and has a five-star Avvo rating. He is a true New Yorker and a successful trial lawyer who is unafraid to go up against even the powerful and combative defendants.
Content Last Updated: April 23, 2024
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With heavy traffic and unpredictable driving conditions, car accidents are all too common in Queens. The effects on victims and their families can be earth-shattering. From physical injuries to emotional trauma and financial strain, nothing can fully prepare you for the aftermath of a car accident. Insurance companies may take advantage of your vulnerable state and offer settlements that do not fully cover your losses.
When facing the aftermath of a car accident, securing quality legal representation is not just a necessity—it is your right. That’s where the car accident lawyers at Chopra & Nocerino come in. With over 20 years of combined experience helping New Yorkers like you navigate their car accident injury claims, we have the skills, resources, and expertise needed to fight for maximum compensation.
From gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, our Queens car accident lawyers are ready to stand by your side every step of the way. Reach out by calling (855) NYC-HURT or filling out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation today. We can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Chopra & Nocerino for Your Car Accident Injury?
At Chopra & Nocerino, you come first. Your car accident is not just another case to us—it is a life-changing event that deserves our full attention. We are a full-service personal injury law firm dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate representation that puts you and your best interests at the forefront.
Don’t just take our word for it—our reputation speaks for itself. We’re the exclusive personal injury law firm of the New York Mets and have received numerous awards for our outstanding legal services, including:
- National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- Super Lawyers Rising Star
- Top 100 Lawyers 2021 Attorney of the Year
Our team has recovered hundreds of millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients, a testament to our unwavering commitment to pursuing justice for accident victims injured at little to no fault of their own.
We’re passionate about serving our community and positively impacting the lives of those around us. Whether your accident occurred in Long Island City, Astoria, Howard Beach, Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Flushing, Jamaica, or any neighborhood in Queens, we have what it takes to go to bat for you and get results.
Alex Nocerino is the absolute best! He made the entire process of working with him super easy and seamless and kept me posted along the way. I would highly recommend him for anyone in need of his services. – Grace
Real Car Accident Case Results
- $2.25 Million settlement while engaged at trial – A 33-year-old male who was a passenger in a vehicle was struck by a truck. This resulted in a 2-level disc replacement surgery.
- $1.12 Million settlement while engaged at trial – A male who was making a turn in Queens when his vehicle was struck, and he sustained neck and back injuries.
- $865,000 settlement while engaged at trial – for a male that was injured when his vehicle struck a tree in Queens, NY. Improper repair work to his vehicle caused the tire to come off the car which caused the accident. Trial was held in Queens County, NY.
What Types of Car Accident Cases Do Chopra & Nocerino Accept?
Our Queens personal injury law firm has extensive experience handling a wide variety of car accident cases, including:
- T-bone or side-impact crashes – Some of the most catastrophic injuries result from T-bone or side-impact collisions. We’re prepared to uncover the facts and hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
- Rear-end collisions – Looks can be deceiving. While many rear-end crashes may appear minor at first glance, the reality is that they often result in whiplash, concussion, and other injuries with lasting repercussions. Insurers may attempt to downplay the severity of these crashes, but our auto accident attorneys know better.
- Commercial semi-truck crashes – The sheer force and weight of a commercial truck crashing into a passenger vehicle can leave victims with catastrophic injuries and a lifetime of pain and suffering. Trucking companies and their insurers often have deep pockets and aggressive legal teams. We’re not afraid to take them on.
- Delivery truck accidents – Delivery truck drivers often operate under tight deadlines, leading them to take unnecessary risks on the road. The consequences can be tragic. If you were hit by a FedEx, UPS, or Amazon truck, we can help.
- Motorcycle collisions – Motorcyclists have little protection from the impact of a crash and can suffer severe injuries even at low speeds. If you collided with another vehicle while riding your motorcycle, we can help you recover the compensation you need to move forward.
- Bicycle accidents – Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers on the road, but motorists often overlook them. If a driver’s negligence caused your bicycle accident, we will fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Multi-car pile-ups – Untangling the aftermath of a multi-car pile-up can be a nightmare, with multiple potential sources of liability and a complex chain of events. Our experience and resources make us the best choice for navigating these challenging cases.
- Rideshare accidents involving Uber and Lyft passengers – Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the transportation industry, but their drivers are not immune to accidents. Injured passengers may struggle to seek compensation, but we are here to help.
- Hit-and-run incidents – When a driver flees the scene of an accident, it can feel like there is no hope of recovering compensation. We’ve successfully sought justice for hit-and-run victims through thorough investigations and aggressive legal action.
Queens Roads: Understanding High-Risk Areas, Common Accident Causes, and Potential Injuries
Queens is a bustling borough with a diverse population and many transportation options. With so many people and vehicles on the roads, accidents are bound to happen. However, some areas and situations pose a higher risk for collisions than others.
Where Are the Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in Queens, NY?
According to recent city data, the following intersections have the highest number of traffic accidents in Queens:
- 101st Avenue and I-678
- Brookville Boulevard and Rockaway Boulevard
- Cross Island Parkway and Hempstead Avenue
- 120th Street and Liberty Avenue
- 156th Avenue and Cross Bay Boulevard
- Borden Avenue and Van Dam Street
- Jackson Avenue and Queens Blvd
- 108th Street and Horace Harding Expressway
- 113th Place and 70 Road
- 31st Street and Astoria Boulevard
- 94th Street and Grand Central Parkway
What Causes Most Car Accidents in Queens?
Some common causes of car accidents in Queens include:
- Distracted driving – Driver inattention is the leading cause of car accidents in Queens. Using a cell phone, eating, or adjusting music can all divert a driver’s attention from the road and lead to an accident.
- Speeding – Approximately 120 vehicles are involved in speeding-related injury and fatality collisions each month in Queens.
- Driving under the influence (DUI) – Alcohol and drugs—both legal and illegal—contribute to a large number of Queens car accidents. Alcohol is the most common substance involved in DUI-related crashes in Queens, followed by illegal drugs and prescription medications, respectively.
- Reckless driving – This includes risky or aggressive behaviors like tailgating, running red lights or stop signs, and weaving through traffic.
What Are the Common Car Accident Injuries?
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries that can range from minor inconveniences to life-threatening conditions, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Multiple broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Burns
- Amputations
- Facial injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Wrongful death
Who Is Liable For Your Injuries After a Queens Car Accident?
Multiple parties may be liable for a Queens car accident, including:
- Other Drivers – If a driver’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions caused the accident, they can be held liable. –
- Vehicle Owner – If the owner knowingly allowed an incompetent or reckless driver to use their vehicle, they might share liability.
- Employers – If the driver was operating a vehicle for work purposes at the time of the accident/injuries, their employer might be held liable under certain circumstances.
- Vehicle Manufacturer – If the accident resulted from a defect in the vehicle, such as faulty brakes or airbags, the manufacturer could be liable for damages.
- Government Entities – If the accident was caused by poorly maintained roads, traffic signals, or other infrastructure issues, the government entity responsible for road maintenance might be liable.
- Third Parties – Other parties, such as pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists, could also be held liable if their actions contributed to the accident.
New York takes a pure comparative fault approach to car accident cases. If you file a claim with another party’s liability insurance, each party will be assigned a percentage of fault for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by the percentage assigned to you, if any. For example, if you were 30 percent at fault for the accident, and your total damages amounted to $100,000, you would receive $70,000 in compensation.
Having a Queens car accident attorney on your side is invaluable. When you turn to us, we will thoroughly investigate your accident and push back hard when the at-fault party tries to pin the blame on you.
How Do You Handle Insurance Companies After a Car Accident in Queens, NY?
Insurance adjusters are trained professionals who aim to save their company money. Without adequate legal representation, you risk accepting settlements that fall short of covering the full extent of your damages and long-term needs.
This applies whether you’re filing a claim under another party’s insurance policy or your own. Under New York’s no-fault system, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) policy will cover up to $50,000 in medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of who is at fault. However, you may need more than this to fully compensate for your losses. State law allows those with serious injuries to step outside of the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver’s liability insurance.
Soon after your accident, you may receive a phone call from either insurance company. They may ask for a recorded statement or pressure you into accepting a quick settlement offer. Only provide a statement or sign something after consulting an auto accident lawyer. Our team will handle all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf. We’ll gather evidence, file claims, negotiate a settlement, and take your case to court if negotiations fail to produce a fair resolution.
I highly recommend this law firm. The attorneys and staff are professional, knowledgeable, very thorough and compassionate. They truly work hard to get the best outcome for their clients. You will not be pressured to take an offer when they know you deserve more for your injuries. I am truly blessed to have been referred to Chopra & Nocerino. – Deborah Cullum
Types of Damages Recoverable in a Queens, NY, Car Accident Lawsuit
The primary goal of a Queens car accident lawsuit is to recover compensation for your losses, known as damages, resulting from the collision. These damages may be economic, non-economic, or punitive:
- Economic damages – These are quantifiable monetary losses resulting from the accident. They include but are not limited to medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and property damage. Documentation such as bills, receipts, and employment records can substantiate these claims.
- Non-economic damages – Non-economic damages are subjective and more challenging to assign a dollar value to. They account for the things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life that result from the accident. Estimating these damages requires a thorough understanding of the accident’s impact on the victim’s quality of life. These damages are not available through PIP insurance and may require a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party’s liability insurance.
- Punitive damages – Though rarer than the compensatory damages listed above, punitive damages serve as a form of punishment in cases involving extreme recklessness or wrongdoing on the part of the defendant. They are not meant to compensate the victim but rather to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future.
When You’re Hurt in a Car Accident, We Step Up to the Plate
If you or a loved one were hurt in a Queens car accident, you don’t have to face it alone. Our Queens car accident attorneys are here to help you seek the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Because we operate on a contingency basis, you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call (855) NYC-HURT or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
My experience with the law firm Chopra & Nocerino was one of the best experiences I had. The staff is very professional and helpful, guarantee to get the job. – Tedesha Phillips
FAQs About Queens Car Accidents
It’s normal to have questions after you’ve been in a car accident. Here are some answers to commonly asked questions that may be on your mind. We encourage you to contact our Queens car accident lawyers for more information about your specific case.
1. What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Queens?
- Call 911 for emergency medical assistance or to notify the police.
- Exchange information with all involved parties, including witnesses.
- Take photos of the accident scene and any damages/injuries.
- Seek medical attention even if you don’t feel injured.
- Contact your insurance company to report the accident.
- Schedule a consultation with our Queens auto accident attorneys.
2. How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Attorney After a Car Accident in Queens?
At Chopra & Nocerino, we work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee is calculated as a pre-negotiated percentage of the settlement or verdict we secure on your behalf, so you don’t have to worry about any upfront costs.
3. How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Queens, New York?
The statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits in New York is generally three years from the date of the accident. Subject to very few exceptions, your case will most likely be dismissed if it is not filed before the deadline passes.
4. If I’m Partly at Fault for the Accident, Will It Affect My Compensation?
Because New York is a pure comparative negligence state, you can seek compensation even if you are found to be primarily at fault. However, the presiding court will reduce your compensation in proportion to your share of fault for the accident. Importantly, this rule only applies in a liability claim against another driver. You can seek PIP benefits from your insurance company regardless of fault.
5. What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Queens, New York?
Settlement amounts depend on the specifics of each case, especially the severity and extent of your injuries. Minor car fender benders may settle for a few thousand dollars whereas catastrophic accidents may be worth multiple millions. Our Queens personal injury attorneys can give you a good idea of how much your case may be worth after evaluating your circumstances during your free consultation. Explore our settlements and verdicts to learn more.
6. How Long Will It Take to Settle My Queens Car Accident Case?
The timeline for settling a car accident case in Queens can vary greatly depending on the case’s complexity and whether or not it goes to trial. In general, cases that involve serious injuries or multiple liable parties take longer to settle. Some cases may settle within a month or two. Others may take over a year, especially if they involve multiple parties and extreme damages.
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ON THIS PAGE
- Why Choose Chopra & Nocerino for Your Car Accident Injury?
- What Types of Car Accident Cases Do Chopra & Nocerino Accept?
- Who Is Liable For Your Injuries After a Queens Car Accident?
- How Do You Handle Insurance Companies After a Car Accident in Queens, NY?
- Types of Damages Recoverable in a Queens, NY, Car Accident Lawsuit
- When You’re Hurt in a Car Accident, We Step Up to the Plate
- FAQs About Queens Car Accidents
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BUS ACCIDENT - $2.25 MILLION
BICYCLE ACCIDENT - $2.25 MILLION
TRUCK ACCIDENT - $1.05 MILLION
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