Car Accident FAQ

Attorney Andranik "Andy" Boyadzhyan is licensed in Alabama, Missouri, New Mexico and Washington, D.C. Paul Perkins, Of Counsel, is licensed in New Jersey and New York. If your crash happened somewhere else, we will tell you honestly and, with your consent, help you find counsel who can take it.

Nothing up front. Top USA Law works on a contingency fee, which means the fee is a percentage of what we recover for you and is paid at the end. If there is no recovery, you owe no attorney fee. Case costs may apply separately, and the written agreement explains everything before you sign.

New York and New Jersey are no fault states. Your own auto policy, or the policy on the car you were in, pays your medical bills and part of your lost wages no matter who caused the crash. To sue the other driver for pain and suffering you must meet an injury threshold. Washington, D.C., Alabama, Missouri and New Mexico are at fault states, where you claim directly against the driver who caused the crash.

For most claims against a private driver: three years in New York, Washington, D.C. and New Mexico, two years in New Jersey and Alabama, and five years in Missouri. Wrongful death deadlines are shorter in several states. Claims involving a government vehicle or agency often require written notice within 90 days. Call as soon as you can.

In New York, New Jersey, Missouri and New Mexico, yes. Your recovery is reduced by your share of fault. In Alabama and, for most drivers, Washington, D.C., any fault on your part can bar the claim entirely, so the evidence we gather early is critical. D.C. protects pedestrians and cyclists who are less than 50 percent at fault.

Do not give a recorded statement and do not accept a quick check. Adjusters are trained to lock in facts that reduce your claim. Tell them you are represented and give them our number. We handle every call from that point on.

Get medical care, even if you feel fine. Call the police and get a report number. Photograph the vehicles, the road and your injuries. Collect the other driver's license, plate and insurance details and any witness names. Report the crash to your own insurer. Then call us before you speak to anyone else's insurer.

Your own uninsured motorist coverage usually steps in, and a household member's policy may also apply. New York has a state fund, the MVAIC, for victims with no coverage. We review every policy in your household to find the coverage that applies.

Many cases settle within several months to a year once you have finished treatment and we know the full extent of your injuries. Cases that go to trial take longer. We will not push you to settle early for less than your case is worth, and we keep you updated at every stage.

Yes. Top USA Law serves clients in English and Spanish, and our Spanish language pages are written natively, not translated.