3 Ways COVID-19 is Affecting Personal Injury Cases Across NY

Lever & Ecker, PLLC February 1, 2022 Personal injury

After almost two years since the start of COVID-19 outbreaks in the United States, our society has seen many changes. For an extended period of time, there was an absence of individuals going about their everyday lives, driving to work, and going outside. The increase of remote work and fluctuating costs of goods has many U.S. residents questioning other ways the pandemic has altered our way of living. Changes within the legal system in response to COVID-19 have also impacted personal injury cases, including the amount of time it takes to potentially resolve a claim.

Now more than ever, people want to enjoy the time they lost, which has led to an increasing number of accidents in New York. With most restaurants and businesses reopen at this time, and with more people commuting to work and returning to their physical locations, New York motor vehicle accidents and personal injury cases are increasing. However, many changes within the legal system continue to affect personal injury cases. A qualified personal injury lawyer can answer any questions you have regarding your case and keep you updated on where your claim is in the process.

How COVID-19 Is Affecting New York Personal Injury Cases

When you suffer injuries because of another person’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for the losses you sustain, including your pain and suffering, costs for hospital visits, medical treatment, and lost income. COVID-19 has brought changes in the personal injury process that you should be aware of:

Increase in Accidents

More people are back on the roads and the streets, and the increasing number of pedestrians, drivers, and individuals in certain areas can lead to more personal injury accidents. An example of this is the recent spike in traffic-related fatalities within New York City. According to the New York Post, 266 people died in car crashes in 2021 (as of December 26, 2021).

Delayed Trials

One of the most significant factors impacting personal injury cases in New York is delayed trials. While the courts remain open, due to the coronavirus they continue to operate with restrictions on capacity, to maintain distance, and to protect everyone inside the court, including courthouse staff, plaintiffs, lawyers, and jurors. While trials have resumed in some places, the rate at which trials are taking place is reduced and there remains a significant backlog of cases ready for trial.

Court Processes are Slowed Down

Most court processes are slowing down due to the accumulation of cases. Even requests for conferences and decisions on motions are taking longer than usual to receive a response, in certain counties. Having an experienced lawyer to navigate your case within the court system is critical to obtaining the justice you deserve as fast as possible.

Should You Contact a Car Accident Lawyer at Lever & Ecker, PLLC?

Accidents happen for several reasons and can cause minor to severe injuries. If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident, you can seek compensation for the losses you have suffered from the help of an experienced car accident lawyer.

The following are examples of how Lever & Ecker, PLLC can help your case:

  • Answer questions about your case
  • Determine the responsible individuals or entities
  • Analyze potential legal issues
  • Conduct a thorough investigation
  • Commence the lawsuit and proceed with the litigation
  • Review and provide vital legal documents
  • Discuss claims with insurance companies
  • Negotiate settlement offers
  • Proceed to trial, should

The sooner you contact your lawyer, the more time they have to gather information and prepare for your case. Talk with our lawyers at Lever & Ecker, PLLC, to learn more about how we might help your case.

Talk to an Experienced New York Personal Injury Lawyer at Lever & Ecker, PLLC

A personal injury lawyer at Lever & Ecker, PLLC can answer any questions you have regarding your case. We have over 65 years of combined experience working with various types of accidents and have the resources you need for a successful personal injury claim. Our main goal is to make sure you have legal representation you can trust. If you suffer injuries due to someone else’s negligence, contact our lawyers as soon as possible.

Call (914) 350-6328 or (718) 550-6924 and fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.

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