In New York, including Long Island, you generally have three years from the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. However, not every loss from a car accident is pursued through a lawsuit. The deadlines can also vary depending on what you’re claiming and who you’re claiming against.
Yes, you can sue a government entity for severe injuries sustained in a car accident on Long Island, but the rules are different from suing a private driver. Notably, the deadline is shorter, and the procedural requirements are strict and complex.
Making yourself safe after a car accident on Long Island is your first priority, and then you must carefully follow some straightforward but crucial steps to protect your legal interests and rights.
You still have legal options if the driver who caused your accident doesn’t have insurance. New York requires that all auto insurance policies include Supplementary Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists Coverage (SUM) by default. It exists primarily for these situations.