Backing-Up Car Accident Attorneys in Albany, NY   

Backing-up accidents are more common than you might think, especially in Albany’s busy streets and parking lots. Picture this: You’re trying to reverse, someone steps behind your car, and before you know it, there’s a collision. It’s scary, unexpected, and leaves you shaken.  

We get it. After an accident, most people feel extremely stressed out. You’re worried about injuries, repair bills, and dealing with insurance companies that might not have your best interests in mind.  

At Horn Wright, LLP, our Albany car accident lawyers are here to take that stress off your shoulders. Our team understands what you’re going through, and we’ll work tirelessly to help you get the compensation you deserve.  

What Are Backing-Up Accidents? 

Backing-up accidents happen when a driver reverses and hits something, or worse, someone. It could be another car, a pedestrian, or even a cyclist. In crowded areas like Albany’s Empire State Plaza or downtown parking garages, these accidents can feel almost unavoidable.  

Why do they happen? Sometimes it’s as simple as a driver not seeing what’s behind them. Blind spots, distractions (yes, even glancing at your phone), or slippery winter roads can make reversing a dangerous game. Determining who was at fault isn’t always straightforward. A study of car accidents in Albany County showed that driver distraction was a factor in 14% of crashes leading to ER visits and 16% of crashes requiring hospitalization. 

 These accidents are even more likely when drivers are in a rush or fail to use proper precautions, like checking mirrors and backup cameras. As an Albany law firm, we see the damage negligent drivers can cause. 

How Bad Can Car Accident Injuries Be? 

Let’s be real: accidents don’t have to happen at high speeds to cause serious injuries. A low-speed collision can lead to whiplash, broken bones, or painful back injuries. And if a pedestrian or cyclist is involved, the injuries can be life-changing.  

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: You might feel fine at first, but give it a few hours or days, and the stiffness sets in. These injuries can keep you from doing everyday things, like working or even just relaxing at home. Often it takes getting an MRI to truly understand the full nature of your injuries. 

Broken Bones: Think about it—being hit by a car, even at 5 or 10 mph, can cause fractures, especially if you’re pinned or knocked down. It’s painful and might mean weeks (or months) of recovery.  

Head Injuries: A fall or sudden impact can lead to concussions or more severe brain injuries. If you’re experiencing dizziness, headaches, or memory problems after an accident, don’t ignore it.  

Who’s Responsible for an Albany Motor Vehicle Accident? 

Determining fault isn’t always straightforward, but let’s cut through the confusion. In most cases, the driver who’s backing up is at fault. Why? Because it’s their responsibility to make sure the coast is clear.  

 But that’s not always the end of the story.  

Negligence: Was the reversing driver distracted? Maybe they didn’t bother checking their mirrors or backup camera. If so, they’re likely at fault. Make sure you record these details when filling out an MV-104 form. 

Right-of-Way Rules: Pedestrians and oncoming traffic always have the right-of-way. If a driver fails to yield, they’re usually on the hook.  

Shared Fault: Sometimes, both parties share responsibility. Maybe the pedestrian wasn’t paying attention, or another driver sped into a spot without warning. New York’s comparative negligence law means fault can be divided, which might reduce the amount of compensation awarded.  

Albany has its own quirks. For example, parking lots near spots like the Times Union Center get chaotic, especially during events. If someone darts out unexpectedly, it can complicate fault determination.  

What Should You Do After an Albany Car Accident?  

So, the accident just happened. You’re shaken, maybe even a little scared. What now? Follow these steps to protect yourself:  

• Take Care of Yourself First: If you’re hurt, don’t wait. Get medical attention right away. Injuries that feel like just a sore neck or back can actually be a disc herniation or whiplash, so you’ll want to document it.  
• Call the Police: Filing a report with the Albany Police Department gives you an official record of what happened. This can be a game-changer when dealing with insurance companies. It’ll help supplement the information you provide in the MV-104 form. 
• Document the Scene: Snap some photos. Capture the vehicles, damage, skid marks, and anything else that seems important. These details could be crucial later.  
• Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s contact and insurance details. If a pedestrian or cyclist was involved, get their information too.  
• Talk to Witnesses: Did anyone see what happened? If so, ask for their contact information. A neutral witness can help back up your story.  
• Reach Out for Legal Help: Here’s the thing. You don’t have to handle this alone. An attorney can take the pressure off, so you can focus on healing.  You don’t need to deal with the insurance company tricks and games. 

What Kind of Compensation Can You Expect?  

After an accident, you’re probably wondering, “How am I going to pay for all this?” The good news is you may be entitled to compensation for:  

• Medical Bills: From the ambulance ride to ongoing physical therapy, every penny counts. New York No-Fault benefits will pay for your medical expenses after the car accident. 
• Lost Income: If your injuries keep you out of work, you shouldn’t have to bear that burden alone. No-Fault insurance will pay a portion of your lost wages after the crash. 
• Pain and Suffering: It’s not just about the bills. If the accident has disrupted your life, you deserve compensation for that too. Hiring a lawyer for an accident that isn’t your fault is the first step on the path to recovery.  

Insurance companies often try to lowball victims. Don’t let them. With a dedicated attorney by your side, you’ll have someone fighting to get what you’re truly owed.  

Why Horn Wright, LLP Is the Right Choice  

Here’s the truth: we care about our clients. Horn Wright, LLP, we know how overwhelming life feels after a car accident. That’s why we make it our mission to take the weight off your shoulders.  

Our team has deep experience with Albany-specific cases, whether it’s navigating busy parking lots near Empire State Plaza or dealing with slippery roads during a snowstorm. We’ve seen it all, and we know how to build a strong case tailored to your situation.  

Let us handle the legal side of your personal injury case, so you can focus on what matters most - your recovery. Give us a call today, and we’ll get started on seeking justice for you.