Car accidents are stressful enough — but if you weren’t at fault, you might be wondering: “Do I really need to file an insurance claim?”
The simple answer? Yes. Filing a claim protects you legally and financially, even when someone else caused the accident.
The attorneys at Apicella & Schlesinger have been serving the Bronx community for over 40 years, fighting for the rights of accident victims and their families. We understand the unique challenges of navigating New York’s complex insurance laws, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Why You Should File a Claim Even If You’re Not at Fault
🛡 Protect Your Rights
New York is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your insurance pays for certain damages (like medical bills and lost wages) regardless of who caused the crash. Failing to report or file a claim promptly can jeopardize these benefits.
💵 Ensure All Your Costs Are Covered
Sometimes, vehicle damage or injuries may not be apparent for days or weeks. If you didn’t file a claim, insurance companies may argue that your injuries or costs weren’t related to the accident.
🚗 Prepare for Disputes
Even if the other driver admitted fault at the scene, insurance companies often try to shift blame. Filing your own claim preserves critical evidence and protects your right to compensation.
What If the Other Driver’s Insurance Pays?
While their liability insurance might eventually cover your property damage or additional losses, that process can take time.
In the meantime, your no-fault coverage (through your own insurance) can help pay for:
✅ Medical expenses
✅ Lost earnings
✅ Certain household help if you’re injured
Don’t wait for the other driver’s insurance. Filing your claim ensures you receive support promptly.
How Apicella & Schlesinger Can Help You
As experienced Bronx personal injury attorneys, we understand the complexities of New York’s insurance laws and how to navigate them effectively. When you work with our team, we:
Handle All Insurance Communications
- File all necessary claims on your behalf
- Communicate directly with insurance adjusters
- Ensure you receive maximum no-fault benefits
- Protect you from insurance company tactics designed to minimize payouts
Investigate Your Accident Thoroughly
- Gather evidence from the accident scene
- Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
- Work with accident reconstruction experts when necessary
- Obtain all relevant police reports and medical records
Fight for Maximum Compensation
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
- Pursue litigation when insurance offers are inadequate
- Ensure you receive compensation for all your losses
Marni Lechner from Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys At Law is an absolutely incredible lawyer! I cannot emphasize enough how much she has helped me. Not only is she highly professional and knowledgeable, but she is also an incredibly caring and compassionate person. Whenever I have had legal questions or concerns, she has always been there for me, providing guidance and support. She takes the time to explain everything in detail and ensures that I fully understand my options.
One thing that truly sets Marni apart is her dedication to her clients. She fights tirelessly on their behalf, going above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcomes. She has built a strong relationship with me, making me feel valued and heard. Even beyond our professional interactions, she has offered friendly advice and connected me with her colleagues who could provide additional assistance when needed.
I am truly grateful for Marni's expertise and support. Her commitment to her clients is unmatched, and I highly recommend her services. If you're looking for a lawyer who is not only highly skilled but also genuinely cares about your well-being, Marni Lechner is the one to choose. She is an absolute gem in the legal field!
Marni has to be the most helpful attorney I ever came across. From the moment I spoke to her, the care and compassion she has had towards me and my family has been amazing. She is someone you want in your corner if you are dealing with a legal matter. Would recommend 1000%!
The attorneys of this office will always go beyond the call of duty, just being your lawyer, isn't Here is what you will receive Unlike most attornies, calls will be returned promptly, and the level of legal protection is incomparable, guidance is continuous, Marnie Schelinger and her father (Phil), also an attorney will treat you like a member of their family, they will listen to you in detail, explain, guide, and care about your legal matters from the beginning to the end night and day, no matter who the opponent will be they will represent you fully, I praise God for these attornies for whom without I would have been in a "hot mess" and believe me I have a had many a legal issue in this great city of ours, and I would recommend anyone to entertain the thought of retaining the services of this firm, experience, familiarity of the law is plentiful, you will have no regrets, this a winning team of lawyers who will fight for you no matter what, I have been dealing with this firm since (2012)
Henry B
I have been going to Ms. Schlesinger for legal matters for nearly two decades. She is always knowledgeable, fair and treats everyone with respect. She is also the rare attorney that listens to her clients, cares about them and is result oriented. I recommend her highly.
I can not begin to emphasize how glad I am that I chose this law firm. Marni has taken such good care of me. During the height of the Pandemic she called me several times to check up on me and my family. She has kept me in the loop about my case all along. My settlement has exceeded far more than I would have ever anticipated. Marni thank you so much for all that you do.
This was the best decision I ever made in choosing a Law Firm..Thank you to Phil for your excellent work and Marni for your personal touch in making it mind easing..
Love you all
The Taylor Family
