New York City is a beautiful destination for any traveler. Millions of people regularly visit the city to spend time with family, do business or see the sights.
Unfortunately, a trips can become far less enjoyable if an injury occurs. If an accident is due to someone else’s negligence, it may feel overwhelming to try to seek compensation from afar. However, you should know that you have just as much of a right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and other costs, regardless of whether you’re a New York City resident.
Here are three things New York City visitors should know about the process of seeking compensation for an injury.
1. Finding the right attorney
If you want to file a lawsuit against someone and you can’t be present, an attorney can represent you in the case. Searching for the right attorney is an easy Google search, but there are a few key things you should review to determine if the attorney is right for you:
- How many positive reviews the firm has and how many of those reviews look like real clients wrote them
- How many years the firm has practiced law
- Who will be your point of contact for case updates
- Whether the firm has handled similar cases in the past and the results of those cases
- Awards, memberships or other accolades the firm has received, indicating the firm’s level of experience and professionalism
2. Required appearances
If you decide to file a lawsuit, your presence is required twice for court proceedings. An attorney can cover everything else.
The two instances when you need to appear in person are your deposition, where the other side will question you about your injuries, and a physical examination by a doctor the other side will hire. That doctor writes a report on your injuries and, if the case proceeds to trial, may testify against you to minimize the extent of your injuries.
(It goes without saying that you should have skilled legal representation on your side throughout the entire process. An experienced personal injury lawyer can challenge dubious claims about your case and protect your rights and interests every step of the way.)
3. Arranging accommodations
Not everyone can easily return to New York City, even if it is only for two appearances. However, an attorney can help make travel arrangements and help ensure that your financial costs are ultimately covered. An attorney who works on a contingency-fee basis won’t need payment for these services unless there is monetary recovery.
It may feel daunting, but you shouldn’t have to suffer the physical and financial burden of an injury just because it happened while you were away from home. New York City travelers have options and deserve to pursue them.
