Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

If you have lost a loved one due to a car accident, we are deeply sorry for your loss. At Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law, we understand the devastation our clients feel after losing a loved one.

We know that dealing with the death of a loved one is always painful and that it can be especially traumatic when a negligent driver caused the death.

With more than 45 years of experience, our fatal car accident lawyers represent the surviving families of people killed in motor vehicle accidents. We can help you successfully pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.

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Kuvarshing J.

Benard S.

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!

Afzol K.

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%!

H B

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

Anna 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.

Heidi Z.

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.

S.K

Sonia T.

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 allThe Taylor Family

Fatal Car Accident Statistics

On average, more than 38,000 people are killed in motor vehicle accidents each year in the U.S. According to the National Safety Council, in 2020, more than 42,000 people died in vehicle accidents. 

In New York, car accidents happen at an alarming rate. It is estimated that at least three people die each day in New York due to car accidents.

Fatal car accidents are traumatic and life-changing. Car accident deaths devastate families, friends, and communities. If your loved one has passed away, there aren’t easy answers. However, one step that often proves helpful is to contact an experienced fatal car accident lawyer.

How a Fatal Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Each car accident has its own unique set of circumstances. Many of them involved distracted or negligent behavior. After a deadly accident, an experienced lawyer can serve as your legal guide and advocate. Your attorney will build a strong case and fight for your right to receive the financial compensation you need and deserve.

We understand that receiving financial compensation doesn’t lessen the grief of losing your loved one; however, it will ease some of the accident’s economic stress. Do not struggle with a financial burden by yourself at this challenging time.

After a loved one passes, you may not immediately understand the financial ramifications. You may end up struggling with short-term and long-term expenses. Some of these may include:

• Medical bills – If your loved one underwent surgeries or hospitalization, the cost of paying these bills can be overwhelming.
• Funeral costs – Funeral and burial costs can cost thousands of dollars.
• Loss of financial resources – If you relied on the wages, health insurance, and other economic benefits from your loved one, the loss of this support could be devastating. If you have children, this can place significant stress on you and your family.
• Loss of companionship – Suddenly losing a husband, wife, or partner is devastating. It can damage your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
• Pain and suffering – Losing someone you loved can impact every area of your life. It can affect your ability to work and attend to other obligations.

Causes of Fatal Car Accidents

Fatal car accidents can occur with a single vehicle or involve two or more vehicles. There are hundreds of possible scenarios. However, the leading cause of fatal car accidents is distracted driving. Because distracted driving is a significant cause of accidents, New York law prohibits all drivers from engaging in a call with a handheld device while the vehicle is in motion.

Other factors that contribute to fatal car accidents include:

• Speeding
• Driving under the influence of alcohol
• Driving under the influence of drugs
• Improperly changing lanes
• Failing to obey stop signs or stop lights
• Reckless driving
• Driving inappropriately for weather conditions
• Unsafe lane changes
• Wrong-way driving
• Road rage
• Animal crossings
• Street racing

No matter the cause of the car accident, if the negligence or recklessness of another person took the life of your loved one, we can help you receive compensation by filing a wrongful death claim. 

What is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Wrongful death refers to a death wrongfully caused by an action of another, regardless of whether the action was an accident or intentional. When someone loses their life in a New York car accident due to another party’s recklessness or negligence, a car accident lawyer can file a lawsuit seeking compensation for the deceased’s family members. 

A wrongful death case is a civil case, not a criminal case. This means that your fatal car accident lawyer will not need to prove that the other party had an intent to harm or kill. 

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit After a Fatal Accident?

In New York, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate is responsible for filing a wrongful death claim. The law gives priority to the surviving spouse and children, who may receive all or part of the award depending on the circumstances of the case. If the deceased has no surviving spouse or children, then his or her parents are eligible to receive the award. Finally, brothers and sisters are eligible if no spouse, children, or parents are present.

Contact a Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

If you have lost a loved one due to the recklessness or negligence of another, contact Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law. We will review all of the facts, gather statements, collect evidence, and build a wrongful death case. Do not navigate the complicated laws in New York alone. We are here for you and your family.

Fatal car accident lawyers at Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. With more than 45 years of experience, we will guide you through this difficult time with care and compassion.