Car accidents often bring about unease and stress, as handling a car accident claim can be challenging.
A car accident in a leased car can heighten this confusion, as leased vehicles are different from owned cars.
After a leased car accident, The Law Offices of Theodore A. Naima is ready to help.
Understanding the Differences Between Leased and Owned Cars
Leasing and owning a vehicle are two different things.
When you lease a vehicle, it is almost like renting, but with more privileges and less protection. You treat the vehicle as if it’s yours, except someone else—a leasing company or a dealership—owns it.
Additionally, you must provide your own insurance coverage to protect the vehicle in case of an accident.
When you own your car, you are the rightful owner. If something happens to it, you are responsible and can handle the situation as you see fit.
In New York, insurance for leased cars is the same as owned cars. You are required to have minimum insurance coverage on all vehicles. Coverage includes:
- No-fault (personal injury protection) to pay for certain expenses, including medical expenses, for those you’ve injured in an accident;
- Liability protection to protect against the damage your car might inflict on others and their property; and
- Uninsured motorist coverage to protect yourself in case of an accident with an individual that has no car insurance.
It is equally as important to protect a leased car as it is an owned vehicle. Still, it is extremely beneficial to keep your leased vehicle protected by car insurance to protect yourself against headaches you may encounter in the future.
What to Do After a Collision with a Leased Vehicle
After a collision in a leased vehicle, you would essentially handle it the same way you should other accidents. It is recommended you:
- Call 911;
- Always receive medical treatment;
- Collect pertinent evidence and information; and
- Discuss your leased car accident with a knowledgeable lawyer.
Additionally, you will want to notify your insurance company of your accident as soon as you possibly can.
It is also wise to contact the leasing company or dealership in case there is anything you should keep in mind when handling your claim.
Receiving Damages After a Car Accident
In New York, there are multiple ways for you to receive damages for injuries and property damage for accidents in a leased car.
You may file a claim with the insurance, use your uninsured motorist benefits if the collision involves an uninsured driver, or file a personal injury lawsuit.
The best course of action to receive damages will depend on the details of your case. A New York personal injury attorney can help you decide what is best for you in an effort to receive the compensation you deserve.
When to File a Lawsuit
Not every collision requires filing a lawsuit. Nonetheless, it is important to note that insurance coverage will cover only so much.
You may be able to receive compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and some lost wages. Beyond this, you may not be able to count on insurance.
This is where a personal injury lawsuit may be required to help you receive the financial recovery you need after an accident. Because every accident case is different, it is best to consult with a New York personal injury lawyer.
Discuss Your Case with a Qualified New York Personal Injury Attorney
At The Law Offices of Theodore A. Naima, our firm practices only personal injury law. Therefore, you can feel confident knowing you are receiving top-notch legal services from a knowledgeable and experienced attorney.
Ted Naima has over 25 years of trial experience and isn’t afraid to go the extra mile for clients in need. Contact our office today to schedule your complimentary consultation.
Theodore A. Naima
Theodore A. Naima is the founding partner of the Law Offices of Theodore A. Naima, a Personal Injury & Medical Malpractice Law Firm based in New York. In 2015, Ted was awarded the prestigious AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, the company that has long been recognized as setting the gold standard for lawyer ratings, signifying the highest degree of peer recognition and professional excellence.
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