Being involved in a car accident on Long Island can turn your life upside down in an instant. Amidst the confusion, medical appointments, insurance calls, and mounting stress, one pressing question often lingers: “Will my car accident case on Long Island end up in court?” At Palermo Law, we understand that the prospect of courtroom proceedings can be intimidating. Fortunately, most car accident cases settle without ever needing a trial. However, knowing why some cases do go to court—and what factors influence that decision—can give you greater peace of mind and help you feel prepared for whatever comes next.
One of the primary reasons car accident cases end up in court is when there’s significant disagreement over who caused the accident. If the other driver’s insurance company strongly contests liability, negotiations can stall, making litigation necessary to resolve the dispute. Having experienced legal representation becomes crucial here, as a skilled attorney can present compelling evidence to support your claim.
Cases involving severe injuries or substantial financial losses are more likely to require court intervention. Insurance companies are naturally reluctant to part with large settlements, and may dispute the extent or necessity of medical treatment, or undervalue future losses such as ongoing medical care and lost earning capacity. When negotiations hit a standstill, the courtroom may become the best option to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Sometimes, insurance companies make settlement offers far below the true value of your claim, hoping you’ll accept due to stress or financial pressure. If negotiations fail to yield an adequate settlement, going to court might be your best path forward. Experienced Long Island car accident attorneys know how to recognize inadequate offers and will aggressively advocate for fair compensation on your behalf.
On Long Island and throughout New York, car accident victims generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If this deadline is approaching and a settlement has not yet been reached, filing a lawsuit becomes necessary to protect your rights. While initiating a lawsuit doesn’t automatically mean you’ll end up in court, it’s a crucial step toward preserving your claim. In New York State, you must report any car accident involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to the Department of Motor Vehicles using Form MV-104 within 10 days of the incident.
The good news is that statistically, the vast majority of car accident cases settle before reaching the courtroom. Both parties usually prefer settlement to avoid the expenses, delays, and uncertainties associated with trials. With effective legal representation, negotiations can often resolve disputes more quickly and efficiently, ensuring you get compensated sooner rather than later.
Settlements also offer the advantage of certainty. When you agree to a settlement, you know exactly how much you’ll receive and when you’ll receive it. In contrast, trial outcomes can be unpredictable, and even strong cases carry some inherent risks.
Even though most cases settle, the best approach is always to be prepared for court. This preparation includes thoroughly documenting the accident scene, medical treatments, property damage, and any other relevant evidence that supports your case. Your attorney will guide you through each step, helping you build the strongest possible case.
At Palermo Law, we take a proactive stance to gather evidence, document injuries, and assess damages thoroughly, leaving no stone unturned. Our goal is always to negotiate from a position of strength, ensuring our clients receive the maximum compensation possible.
Whether or not your case goes to court, the key to a successful outcome is having the right legal support. Palermo Law has over three decades of experience handling car accident claims on Long Island. Our team understands the local legal environment and how insurance companies operate. We leverage this expertise to navigate the complexities of settlement negotiations effectively and, when necessary, advocate vigorously for you in court.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident on Long Island and have concerns about your case, Palermo Law is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you through every step of the legal process with confidence and clarity.