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Common Questions
When I meet with potential clients during a free case review, I find that they have many of the same concerns. I want to provide a brief sample of the types of questions that are typically asked as these may be some of the same questions that you may have now. I want to educate you about personal injury law and provide a further understanding of the legal process to better prepare you before you meet with a lawyer about your case.
What Happens During A Free Initial Consultation?
During a free initial consultation you will meet one-on-one with attorney Brian O’Connor to discuss the details of your accident and your injuries. This is also an opportunity for you to ask us questions about your case, learn about your legal rights and options and find out how we can help you… Read More
How Much Does A Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
When you work with The O’Connor Law Firm, you pay us nothing up front. We will handle your case on a “contingency” basis – this means that any fee recovered is contingent on getting you compensation by settlement or verdict. You do not pay us anything until and unless we win your case by settlement or at trial… Read More
How Long Will My Case Take To Settle?
The answer is “it depends” because each client’s case is different; it is not a simple answer. While some injury victims may wish for their cases to settle quickly, this is not usually the best decision, especially if your injuries are serious. Depending on the extent of your injuries, length of medical care, and liability issues, an injury case can take a few months to a few years. Explaining these factors will help you understand why the process can take longer than you may expect… Read More
What Is My Case Worth?
There is no magic formula that can be used to calculate the value of your case at such an early stage. The truth is the value of any case is dependent on multiple factors that can vary from case to case and client to client. Some of these factors include liability, extent of your injuries and medical care, insurance coverage, your age and your ability to return to work. As a case progresses and these factors become clearer, an attorney can provide more meaningful guidance on the value of your case… Read More
Who Will Pay My Medical Bills?
Who pays your medical bills depends on your specific type of accident; depending on if you were involved in a vehicle accident, work-related accident or premises accident there are different insurance coverages we can pursue for your compensation… Read More
Can I Bring A Lawsuit If I Was Partially At Fault?
Yes. Even if you are partially at fault for an accident, in New York, you are permitted to bring a claim and recover. But, you are only entitled to recover for that portion of your injuries that is attributable to another party…Read More
What Types of Damages Can I Recover In A Personal Injury Case?
Damages in a personal injury case are intended to “make the plaintiff whole” or put them back in the same position they were in before the accident. Unfortunately, the only way our legal system can attempt to do this…Read More
What Are The Time Limits To Bring A Lawsuit In New York?
New York has different time limits or ‘statute of limitations” for different types of claims. It is important to understand your type of claim as well as the identity of the responsible party…Read More
What Should I Do Immediately After A Slip And Fall Accident?
If you are injured in a slip and fall accident there are several things you should do. First, call for medical help. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including any dangerous conditions…Read More
Can I Sue Someone If I Slipped On Snow And Ice?
In New York City, winter time can cause the sidewalks and roadways to become treacherous with snow and ice. The law requires that property owners maintain their property in reasonably safe condition…Read More
Who Is Responsible If I Trip And Fall On A Broken Sidewalk?
While many sidewalks are technically owned by the City of New York, the responsibility to maintain the sidewalks in a reasonably safe condition depends on whether the adjacent property owner is a commercial business or a 1-3 family home…Read More
What is a Notice of Claim?
A notice of claim is a document that must be filed within 90 days of the date your claim arises, usually the accident date. The notice of claim provides the municipal entity with information…Read More
What Should I Do Immediately After A Bicycle Accident?
Unfortunately, despite taking precautions, sometimes bicycle accidents happen. When you are involved in a bicycle accident it is important that you avoid making some common mistakes that can damage your case. Read More
What Are No-Fault Benefits?
New York has in place a no-fault law which provides certain benefits to drivers and passengers involved in auto accidents no matter who was at fault for the accident. These benefits are also called Personal Injury Protection (“PIP”). ..Read More
Can I Still Sue If I Had A Prior Injury To The Same Body Part?
Yes, you can still bring a claim for injuries even though you may have sustained a prior injury to that same body part. However, it is important to note that you are only entitled to compensation to the extent that the negligent party made the original injury worse…Read More