You’re walking home after a long day, the city’s energy humming around you, when suddenly, an unexpected accident changes everything. Now, you have injuries, mounting medical bills, and endless questions about what to do next. These challenges may seem daunting, but you can take control and move forward with the right guidance.
At the Law Offices of Supriya Kichloo, P.C., we understand how life-altering personal injury cases can be. We aim to secure the justice and compensation you deserve while supporting you through every step of the legal process.
Notable Recent Personal Injury Settlements
Here are four notable personal injury settlement amount examples, some led by Supriya Kichloo and others achieved by dedicated legal teams.
Polanco Case (2016)
In this high-profile wage theft case, two Queens superintendents were unfairly denied proper payment for their work. By leveraging employment law statutes and presenting compelling evidence, Supriya secured a $225,000 settlement. This outcome addressed the plaintiffs’ financial hardships and demonstrated the effectiveness of strategic legal advocacy in employment disputes.
Khan v. MTA (2019)
In one of the year’s most significant motor vehicle accident cases, Supriya Kichloo and her team proved the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s negligence. This tragic incident involved a collision between an MTA bus and pedestrians, resulting in severe injuries and wrongful death. Supriya’s dedicated representation led to a record-breaking $8.5 million settlement, providing financial relief to the victims and their families. The case also emphasized the need for greater safety measures within public transit systems.
Unknown Plaintiff v. City of New York (2023)
A fatal accident on Harlem River Drive revealed the city’s failure to address known roadway hazards. In an area known for previous accidents, a non-city vehicle hit the deceased while he was changing a flat tire. The plaintiff’s claim focused on negligent roadway design and the city’s prior knowledge of the danger. This advocacy led to a $6.95 million settlement for the decedent’s surviving wife and two daughters, holding the city accountable for neglecting public safety.
Curtis v. Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. et al. (2024)
Kim Curtis suffered serious injuries after a defective bathroom door fell on her during her stay at the Hilton Garden Inn New York/Central Park. Despite notifying hotel staff about the broken door handle, no repairs led to the incident. A New York jury awarded Curtis $2.1 million in compensatory damages and $30 million in punitive damages. However, in November 2024, a federal judge reduced the punitive damages to $10 million, citing excessiveness, bringing the total to $12.1 million. This case highlights the need for accountability in maintaining safe premises for guests.
Key Takeaways
These recent personal injury settlements emphasize the essential role of experienced legal representation in securing justice and compensation. These are just examples, and the outcome of your case will be influenced by its particular details, potentially leading to a different settlement amount. Working with a qualified attorney ensures your rights are protected and a comprehensive evaluation of your claim.
Overview of New York’s Personal Injury Laws
New York’s personal injury laws cover everything from vehicle accidents to premises liability and beyond. One of the key rules is the state’s comparative negligence doctrine. Under this rule, injured people can pursue compensation even if they share some responsibility for the incident. However, their recovery is reduced in proportion to their degree of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault for an accident, your damages award will be reduced by that percentage.
New York also operates under a no-fault insurance system for motor vehicle accidents. Under this system, your insurance will cover medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. However, if you suffer a “serious injury” as defined by New York Insurance Law—like significant disfigurement, permanent limitation of use, or limb loss—you can bypass the no-fault system and sue the responsible party for pain and suffering, among other damages.
Key Factors Affecting Personal Injury Settlements
Every personal injury case is unique, and various factors impact the settlement sum. These include:
- Severity of injuries. Catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage typically lead to higher settlements due to extensive medical care and long-term impacts.
- Economic damages. Medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs significantly determine compensation.
- Noneconomic damages. Pain, suffering, and emotional distress also affect settlement calculations.
- Liability. Shared fault reduces your compensation in proportion to your responsibility for the accident.
- Insurance coverage. The at-fault party’s insurance policy limits can impact the final amount.
These factors highlight the complexity of personal injury cases and why having an experienced attorney can significantly impact the outcome.
What Is the Average Bodily Injury Claim Amount?
The Insurance Information Institute reported that the average bodily injury claim in the U.S. was $26,501 in 2022. In New York, bodily injury claims often exceed the national average due to the state’s high medical costs and the severity of urban traffic accidents.
How We Can Maximize Your Settlement
Obtaining fair compensation after an accident requires strategic advocacy, attention to detail, and the experience of a skilled attorney. With over a decade of experience, Supriya Kichloo is dedicated to achieving justice for her clients.
We begin by carefully analyzing your case, investigating the accident, reviewing medical records, interviewing witnesses, and gathering evidence to build a strong claim. This approach ensures that we do not overlook any critical details.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, pressuring victims into unfair settlements. We counter these tactics with assertive negotiation, ensuring your compensation reflects your injuries, expenses, and losses. If we cannot reach a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial, presenting persuasive arguments to achieve the best outcome.
Defense teams often blame victims to reduce liability. Our team anticipates these strategies, using our knowledge of personal injury law to protect your rights and maximize your claim’s value.
Clients receive personalized, compassionate representation at the Law Offices of Supriya Kichloo, P.C. With proficiency in English, Hindi, and Kashmiri and a client-centered approach, Supriya and the team ensure comprehensive support during their legal journey. Contact us today and start fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Resources
- Insurance Information Institute, Facts + Statistics: Auto Insurance, link.
- Jurimatic, Hilton Hotel Personal Injury Case, link.
- Consolidated Laws of New York, Chapter 28, Article 51, § 5102, link.
- New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) § 1411, link.
- Consumer FAQs About No-Fault Insurance. NY Department of Financial Services, link.
