Often times, a client of mine especially those who may be involved in an automobile accident will also be sued for their part in causing the accident. That usually happens in an intersection type of accident in which both sides say they had a green light or a stop sign or didn’t have a stop sign and both parties are entitled obviously to bring a lawsuit for their injuries. If my client is served with papers, I have to make sure they understand that I do not represent them as a defendant in the lawsuit. What they need to do, and of course I will help them do this, but they have to contact their insurance company and let them know immediately that they have been served with a summons and complaint, find out how to get the summons and complaint to the insurance company, and have some proof that you got it to the insurance company.
If you don’t do that, then the insurance company may turn around and say, “We’re not going to defend you. We’re not going to get an attorney to defend you and we’re not going to pay any damages for you if you’re responsible for this accident.” What I always advise my clients, especially in automobile accidents, is that if you are sued as a result of this accident, you have to let me know immediately so that we can take steps to make sure that you’re protected.
If you are in need of legal counsel in regards to a personal injury in New York, please contact The Law Offices of Jonathan D. Sands and we would be happy to assist you.