As usual, it's time for the weekly ten-minute session with Michael Brook, head of the Bureau of Accident Investigation and Road Traffic Accidents. Misha: Hello, hello, Alexander. Hello, dear radio listeners. As always, I wish you health and hope you don't end up in any trouble or get injured, especially before New Year and the upcoming holidays.
If, unfortunately, an accident happens and someone you know, like friends, close ones, coworkers, or relatives, gets injured in one situation or another—be it a car accident or a backache after an incident, or if someone falls and breaks something—you should call me as soon as possible at 718-256-5610. Note down my mobile number and always carry it with you under the name Michael Brook. I am always here to assist you at any time of the day or night, on any day of the week. If you want to find me on the Internet, just search for this number, 718-256-5610, and you'll find my website. You can read a lot of interesting information there about proper insurance practices, and you can download my card directly onto your phone to have it with you at all times.
Now, a listener asked this question: He and his wife were riding as passengers in an Uber cab and got into an accident. They are curious whether they should file a case because they didn't understand who was at fault in the accident, and they were told that Uber's insurance, American Transit, is bad, so it wouldn't make sense to start a case. Is that true, and can you help in such a situation? Please answer.
Michael: In this situation, firstly, it is more likely that the Uber driver is not at fault. It's likely the other driver was in the wrong, as Uber drivers are generally professionals who drive well and follow the rules. Although there can be partial faults sometimes, I work with large law firms that can handle any insurance company, taking them to court and securing compensation for the injured. Your treatment will typically be covered by the insurance of the vehicle you were in, even if it's American Transit, as they will cover up to $50,000. My lawyer will make arrangements to ensure no issues arise.
If health is affected, especially if the back, neck, or lower back hurt, I will definitely provide a lawyer who will take the guilty party, or parties if several are involved, to court and secure compensation from all participating insurance companies. Recently, I provided a lawyer in a similar situation where a couple was in an Uber during a severe accident, and the car doors had to be cut with tools to get them out. It turned out their driver was going straight while another car turned left, failing to brake in time. I provided them a strong attorney who secured $50,000 per person, totaling $100,000. If something similar happens, contact me at 718-256-5610 or find this number online and download my card directly to your phone.
Thank you for another clear and convincing answer. Let's hear Anna's question.
Anna: My husband was riding his bicycle when an ambulance unexpectedly blocked his path. There were no lights or signals, but he said it was on the bike lane. He couldn't stop in time and crashed, injuring his face and body. Can we consult a lawyer in this situation, especially since the ambulance had no flashing lights, but the driver claimed he was picking someone up?
Michael: Absolutely, your husband is not at fault here because he was on a bike lane. Except when there's a red light, drivers don't have the right to block a cyclist's path without checking first. In this case, the ambulance driver is clearly at fault. If your husband is injured, I can certainly provide a lawyer who will likely secure a significant amount for you. A similar case I handled involved a tow truck blocking a bike lane, and the injured party received a significant settlement from the involved insurance companies.
In such incidents, you should contact me as quickly as possible at 718-256-5610, or find my website using this number. There you can read useful information on insurance.
Thank you, Anna. Let's move on to Valery. Valery, please, your situation.
Valery: I was a pedestrian when a person on an electric scooter came at me very fast on the bike lane. I stepped away to avoid him, tripped, and now I have a torn tendon in my foot. Can you help me in this case?
Michael: If there was no contact and you just avoided him, the scooter rider is only indirectly related. The relevant law states that without contact, the fall is not his fault. Instead, you should pursue the owner of the location where you tripped. If it's a fault in the sidewalk, then either the city or a nearby building owner could be responsible. My lawyer can help secure compensation, usually more than $50,000, or $150,000 if surgery is needed. A similar case I handled resulted in a $250,000 settlement from the building's insurance.
For any accidents, injuries, or falls, contact Michael Brook at 718-256-5610. He'll guide you to experienced lawyers who will ensure you receive maximum compensation. 718-256-5610.