New York Civil Rights & Criminal Defense Lawyers

At Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP, we stand as a beacon of hope and justice in New York, specializing in civil rights and criminal defense. With a profound commitment to defending the rights of individuals, we are proud to extend our legal expertise to Personal Injury Law. Our dedicated team of personal injury lawyers is driven by a passion for justice and an unwavering commitment to our clients. Contact us today for a FREE consultation.

What Constitutes a Personal Injury?

At Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP, we understand that personal injury goes beyond physical harm – it affects your life, livelihood, and well-being. As a leading New York City law firm specializing in personal injury cases, we are committed to helping our clients navigate these challenging times with expert legal representation.

Physical Injuries

In NYC, personal injuries often involve physical harm caused by car accidents, construction incidents, or other accidents. These injuries can range from minor to severe, impacting your ability to work and enjoy life.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

Recognized under New York law, emotional distress like anxiety, depression, or PTSD resulting from an accident is also considered a personal injury.

Negligence

A cornerstone of personal injury law in NYC, many cases hinge on proving that another party was negligent. For example, in vehicle accidents, proving the other driver’s negligence is crucial for your claim.

Intentional Acts

Injuries resulting from deliberate actions such as assault are also grounds for personal injury claims in New York.

Defective Products

If you are injured by a defective product, our law firm can help you claim compensation under New York’s product liability laws.

Workplace Injuries

We represent clients who have suffered injuries at work, guiding them through the complexities of workers’ compensation claims and other legal avenues.

Medical Malpractice

Our experienced attorneys handle cases where medical professionals in New York have failed to provide standard care, leading to injury or death.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Common in NYC, especially during winter, slip and fall injuries due to unsafe property conditions are a significant focus of our personal injury practice.

Wrongful Death

In tragic circumstances where negligence or an intentional act leads to death, we provide compassionate and strong legal representation to the victim’s family.

How Do I Know If I Have a Personal Injury Case?

At Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP, we understand that determining whether you have a viable personal injury case in New York City can be complex. As experienced personal injury attorneys, we are here to help you navigate this process and assess your situation.

Evidence of Negligence

A key factor in any personal injury case is establishing negligence. Did someone else’s failure to act responsibly cause your injury? In NYC, this might include traffic accidents due to reckless driving, accidents caused by unsafe premises, or injuries due to a lack of proper safety measures at work.

Physical or Emotional Injuries

Did you suffer physical harm or emotional distress due to the incident? Documenting your injuries, both physical and psychological, is crucial. This documentation can include medical reports, psychological evaluations, and records of treatment.

Proving Causation

It’s essential to demonstrate that your injuries are a direct result of the negligent act. This link is often where legal expertise is vital, especially in complex cases like medical malpractice or product liability.

Financial Impact

Have you incurred expenses due to your injury? This can include medical bills, lost wages, and other costs related to your injury. In New York City, the economic impact of your injury plays a significant role in establishing the validity of your case.

Statute of Limitations

In New York, personal injury claims must be filed within a specific time frame. Understanding these legal deadlines is crucial to ensure your case is valid.

Severity of the Injury

The severity of your injury can influence your case. Severe injuries often result in higher compensation due to long-term impacts on your quality of life and financial situation.

How a NYC Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

Navigating a personal injury case in New York City can be daunting, but with Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP by your side, you can confidently face the legal challenges ahead. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are dedicated to providing comprehensive support throughout your case.

Case Evaluation and Strategy Development

We begin by thoroughly assessing your case, determining the viability, and developing a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. This includes understanding the specifics of New York City’s laws and how they apply to your situation.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Our team conducts a detailed investigation to gather all necessary evidence. This might involve collecting police reports, medical records, eyewitness statements, and expert testimonies to build a strong case.

Handling Legal Formalities and Documentation

Navigating the paperwork and legal procedures in NYC can be overwhelming. We manage all the necessary filings, documentation, and correspondence with the relevant parties, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize compensation. We use our negotiation skills to ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Expert Representation in Court

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to represent you in court. Our attorneys have extensive trial experience, particularly in New York City’s legal system, and will advocate fiercely on your behalf.

Calculating Damages

Assessing and quantifying damages in personal injury cases is complex. We consider current and future medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, and other relevant factors to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Personalized Support and Communication

Throughout your case, we maintain open and clear communication, keeping you informed and involved in every decision. Our approach is not just professional; it’s also personal. We understand the impact of your injury on your life and work diligently to support you.

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Represent

As an NYC personal injury law firm, we represent a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

Car Accidents

Involve injuries resulting from vehicle collisions, often due to negligence like speeding or drunk driving.

Truck Accidents

Typically involve commercial trucks and can be more complex due to the size of the vehicle and the involvement of commercial entities.

Motorcycle Accidents

Often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection for motorcyclists, and may involve issues like road hazards or driver negligence.

Pedestrian Accidents

Occur when a vehicle hits a person on foot, often at crosswalks or sidewalks, leading to potentially severe injuries.

Bicycle Accidents

Can result from collisions with vehicles, dooring incidents, or road hazards, often leading to serious injuries due to limited protection for cyclists.

Public Transportation Accidents

Involve buses, trains, or other public transit vehicles, and can be complicated due to government regulations and multiple parties involved.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Occur when someone slips, trips, or falls due to unsafe conditions, like wet floors or uneven surfaces.

Premises Liability Cases

Involve injuries occurring on someone’s property due to negligent maintenance, inadequate security, or other hazardous conditions.

Construction Accidents

Often involve workers but can also affect passersby, resulting from hazards like falling objects, scaffolding collapses, or equipment accidents.

Workplace Injuries

Cover a range of injuries occurring in the workplace, from repetitive strain injuries to accidents involving machinery.

Medical Malpractice

Arise from medical professionals providing substandard care, leading to injury or death, such as surgical errors or misdiagnosis.

Nursing Home Abuse

Involves harm to elderly residents in care facilities, including physical abuse, neglect, or emotional mistreatment.

Product Liability Claims

Occur when defective or unsafe products cause injury, including design flaws, manufacturing defects, or inadequate warnings.

Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Involve injuries caused by animals, often leading to legal claims against the animal’s owner.

Wrongful Death Claims

Filed by the family of someone who died due to another’s negligence or intentional act, seeking compensation for their loss.

Burn Injuries

Can result from fires, chemical exposure, or other sources, often leading to severe physical and emotional trauma.

Brain Injuries

Include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from impacts or accidents, which can have long-lasting cognitive and physical effects.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Often result in permanent disability, such as paralysis, and are usually caused by severe trauma like falls or vehicle accidents.

Electrocution Injuries

Typically occur in workplace settings or due to unsafe products, leading to burns, nerve damage, or even death.

Sports-Related Injuries

Involve injuries sustained during athletic activities, which may involve negligence like unsafe equipment or poor coaching.

Boating Accidents

Can be due to operator inexperience, intoxication, or equipment failure, often leading to drowning or serious injuries.

Aviation Accidents

Involves aircraft, ranging from major airline crashes to small private plane accidents, often resulting in serious injury or death.

Train and Subway Accidents

Include collisions, derailments, or accidents at stations, often involving complex liability issues.

Swimming Pool Accidents

Often involve drowning or injuries due to inadequate supervision or faulty equipment.

Amusement Park Accidents

Can occur due to ride malfunctions, operator error, or inadequate safety measures.

Defamation (Libel and Slander)

Involves harm to a person’s reputation due to false statements, either written (libel) or spoken (slander).

Assault and Battery Claims

Involve intentional harm or threat of harm to an individual, leading to both criminal charges and civil claims.

Pharmaceutical Litigation

Involves claims against drug manufacturers for side effects or injuries caused by medications.

Toxic Exposure and Poisoning

Occur when individuals are exposed to hazardous substances, leading to long-term health issues or immediate harm.

Damages You Can Pursue In a Personal Injury Case

At Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP, we understand that suffering a personal injury can have a profound impact on your life. In pursuing a personal injury claim, various types of damages can be sought to compensate for the losses and hardships you have endured. Here’s an overview of the types of damages typically pursued in personal injury cases:

Economic Damages

Medical Expenses

This includes the cost of hospital stays, doctor visits, physical therapy, medication, medical equipment, and any future medical care related to your injury.

Lost Wages

Compensation for the income lost due to your inability to work following the injury. This also covers loss of earning capacity if your ability to work in the future is affected.

Property Damage

If personal property was damaged as a result of the incident (such as in a car accident), you can be compensated for repair or replacement costs.

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and Suffering

Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you have experienced due to the injury. This can include ongoing discomfort, anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Emotional Distress

Specifically addresses the psychological impact of an injury, such as stress, anxiety, and PTSD.

Loss of Consortium

If the injury has affected the relationship with your spouse or partner, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship and affection.

Punitive Damages

Although less common, punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious or reckless. These are intended more as a punishment to the defendant and a deterrent against future misconduct.

Special Considerations in New York

Comparative Negligence

New York follows the rule of comparative negligence, which means that if you are partly at fault for your injury, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

No-Fault Insurance

For car accidents, New York’s no-fault insurance laws can affect the types of damages you can recover.

Why Choose Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP?

At Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP, we have the expertise to accurately assess and pursue the full range of damages to which you are entitled. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of personal injury law in New York and are dedicated to maximizing your compensation.

Contact us for a comprehensive evaluation of your case and personalized legal support.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Hiring a personal injury lawyer at Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP typically involves a contingency fee arrangement. This means you won’t pay any upfront fees. Instead, the lawyer’s fee is a percentage of your settlement or court award.

What to Do If You Have Sustained an Injury From Someone Else’s Negligence

If you have sustained an injury due to someone else’s negligence, there are several important steps you should take:

Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Even if the injury seems minor, it’s important to get a medical evaluation as some symptoms may not appear immediately.

Document the Incident

Record as much information as possible about the incident. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any relevant conditions or objects. If there were any witnesses, collect their contact information.

Report the Incident

Depending on the nature of the incident, report it to the appropriate authority. For example, in a car accident, report it to the police; for a workplace injury, report it to your employer.

Keep Records

Keep all documentation related to the incident and your injuries. This includes medical records, receipts, correspondence, and a diary of your physical and emotional state post-injury.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Be cautious about what you say following the incident. Even a simple apology can be misconstrued as an admission of liability.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Consult with a personal injury lawyer, like those at Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP, to understand your legal rights and options. They can guide you on the best course of action and help in pursuing a claim.

Refrain from Sharing on Social Media

Avoid discussing the incident on social media platforms as these statements can be used against you in your personal injury claim.

Follow Through with Medical Treatment

Follow your doctor’s advice and keep all medical appointments. Consistent medical treatment not only aids your recovery but also provides a documented trail of your efforts to mitigate the effects of your injuries.

Remember, the steps you take immediately following an injury can significantly impact your ability to recover damages. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer early in the process can help ensure your rights are protected and you are properly compensated for your injuries.

Why Choose Us?

Choosing Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP for your personal injury case offers numerous advantages:

• Experienced Legal Team: Our attorneys have extensive experience in personal injury law, ensuring skilled and knowledgeable representation.
• Personalized Attention: We understand that each case is unique. We offer personalized attention to each client, ensuring your specific needs and concerns are addressed.
• Proven Track Record: Our firm has a history of successfully handling personal injury cases, securing favorable outcomes for our clients.
• Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize your well-being and strive to make the legal process as stress-free as possible for you.
• No Win, No Fee Policy: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we win your case.
• Local Expertise: Our deep understanding of New York’s legal landscape provides an advantage in navigating local laws and regulations.
• Comprehensive Legal Services: From case evaluation to representation in court, we provide comprehensive legal services every step of the way.
• Accessibility and Communication: We ensure clear and regular communication, keeping you informed and involved throughout your case.
• Commitment to Justice: We are dedicated to seeking justice and fair compensation for our clients, fighting tirelessly on your behalf.

Choosing Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP means partnering with a law firm that is committed to your best interests and to delivering the highest quality legal representation.

Ready to Fight for Your Rights? Contact Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP Today!

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Our team at Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP is ready to provide expert legal guidance and robust representation. Contact us for a free consultation and take the first step towards securing your future. Let us be your advocates in this challenging time.

NYC Personal Injury FAQs

Answers from Sivin, Miller & Roche, LLP

1. What qualifies as a personal injury case in NYC?

Personal injury cases in NYC typically involve injuries resulting from someone else’s negligence or intentional actions. Common examples include car accidents, slips and falls, workplace injuries, and medical malpractice.

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

New York has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, generally three years from the date of the injury. However, this can vary based on the case type, so it’s important to consult a lawyer promptly.

3. Can I still receive compensation if I’m partially at fault for my injury?

Yes, under New York’s comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages even if you’re partly at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

4. What kind of damages can I recover in a personal injury lawsuit?

You can recover economic damages (like medical expenses and lost wages), non-economic damages (like pain and suffering), and sometimes punitive damages.

5. Do I need a lawyer for a personal injury case in NYC?

While not mandatory, having a lawyer is highly recommended. Personal injury law can be complex, and a skilled lawyer can navigate the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and maximize your compensation.

6. How does a personal injury lawyer get paid?

Personal injury lawyers in NYC typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they get a percentage of your settlement or court award. If you don’t win, they don’t get paid.

7. What should I do immediately after an injury?

Seek medical attention, document the incident and your injuries, report the accident if necessary (like in car accidents), and consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

8. How long does a personal injury lawsuit take in NYC?

The duration varies depending on case complexity, the extent of injuries, and the willingness of parties to settle. Cases can take anywhere from a few months to several years.

9. Will my personal injury case go to trial?

Most personal injury cases are settled out of court. However, if a fair settlement isn’t reached, your case may go to trial.

10. What is the first step in starting a personal injury claim?

The first step is to consult with a personal injury lawyer to evaluate your case, understand your rights, and decide the best course of action.

For more information or specific guidance on your personal injury case in New York City, contact Sivin, Miller & Roche LLP. We’re here to provide expert legal support and answer any further questions you may have.