New York & Westchester Limousine Accident Attorneys
Traveling in a limousine or a party bus for business or pleasure is considered to be a safe and convenient means of transportation. What starts as a luxurious experience can quickly take a tragic turn when a limousine is involved in an accident, causing serious injuries to passengers and occupants of other vehicles. If you were injured in a limousine accident in the greater New York area, the law office of Michael LoGiudice can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Common Types of Limousine Accidents
There are a number of factors that can contribute to limousine accidents including the length of the vehicles and blind spots. Because of their size and weight, limousines are harder to maneuver and take longer to stop than smaller vehicles. In addition, limousine drivers are often on duty for long hours and are prone to becoming fatigued, putting passengers and other motorists at risk of injury.
The most common types of limousine accidents include:
Rear-enders – As with most motor vehicle accidents, rear-end accidents are the most common type of limousine accident. Because they are larger and heavier, limousines cannot stop as quickly as smaller passenger vehicles. If a limo driver is following the car in front too closely, he or she may not stop quickly enough when the other vehicle hits the brakes suddenly.
Sideswipes – These accidents occur when the side of the limo hits another car stopped in traffic or a fixed object such as a utility pole. Sideswipes can also involve an oncoming vehicle on a two-lane road. These accidents are often caused by inexperienced limousine drivers who are unfamiliar with handling these vehicles.
Hitting a Parked Car – Because of their length, it can be difficult to navigate limousines in a parking lot. Although these accidents do not typically lead to personal injuries, parked cars can easily be damaged after being hit by a limousine.
Determining Liability in a Limousine Accident
In New York, limousine operators have a duty of care to ensure the safety of passengers. In particular, vehicles must be properly maintained, inspected, and covered by the minimum amount of liability insurance. Moreover, drivers must be properly licensed and insured and trained in safe vehicle operation. A limousine company that fails to meet this duty of care can be held liable for accidents that result in injuries to passengers, occupants of other vehicles, and pedestrians.
It is important to note that New York is a No-Fault insurance state. This means that insurance companies are required to pay up to $50,000 for medical expenses related to a limousine accident, lost wages for up to three years, and other costs of injured passengers, regardless of who is at fault.
However, under Article 52 of the insurance law, it may be possible to pursue a personal injury lawsuit if the limousine accident victim incurred a basic economic loss greater than $50,000 or sustained a “serious injury.” Regardless of the injuries, you have suffered, it is essential to engage the services of an experienced personal injury attorney in order to obtain the maximum compensation.
Dedicated Limousine Accident Attorney
The law office of Michael LoGiudice has the skills and resources to identify the responsible parties in a limousine accident. We will collect and review evidence, including accident reports, identify and interview witnesses, and work diligently to build a successful case. Over our many years of practice, we have aggressively and successfully pursued claims against limousine companies, drivers, and their insurers.
Whether the accident was caused by a driver who was fatigued, driving recklessly, driving under the influence or the limousine was overcrowded or not properly maintained, we will fight for your right to the maximum amount of compensation. If the accident was caused by a mechanical defect, we can pursue a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer or the distributor.
We are keenly aware that being in a limousine accident can be a traumatic experience and many victims are left with lingering injuries. We will offer you compassion and knowledge and make sure that you receive the medical treatment you need. If you were injured in a limousine accident, you should immediately seek medical attention, and fill out a contact form or call our offices as soon as possible.