Navigating the Aftermath of a Car Crash Injury in New York’s Capital District
In the moments following a serious accident, life can feel chaotic and uncertain. Whether the crash occurred on a busy stretch of I-90, a commercial thoroughfare like Central Avenue, or a quiet neighborhood street in the Capital District, the consequences are often the same: physical pain, emotional distress, and a sudden, overwhelming financial burden from medical bills and lost wages. When you are injured through no fault of your own, the path to obtaining fair compensation is complicated by a legal landscape that is foreign to you.
A fundamental understanding of New York State’s laws is the first step toward protecting your rights. You may be surprised to learn about the complexities that govern personal injury claims, particularly those involving payment of medical bills, lost wages, and recovering for pain and suffering, disability and permanent consequences of your injuries.
Understanding New York’s “No-Fault” Insurance Law
New York has a “No-Fault” insurance system, designed to ensure that individuals injured in car accidents have a way to cover their accident-related medical expenses and lost earnings, regardless of who was at fault. Your own auto insurance policy provides this coverage, known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
However, the term “No-Fault” is often misleading. While it provides for these benefits, it is not how the accident victim recovers against the negligent driver for the pain and suffering and wage loss, future medical bills and the permanent consequences of the injuries.
To recover damages against the other driver, the injured victim must also meet New York’s Serious Injury threshold, which is explained here:
The “Serious Injury” Threshold
Under New York Insurance Law § 5102(d), an accident victim must meet at least one of the following criteria to pursue a claim for pain and suffering. The law defines a “Serious Injury” as one that results in:
- Death
- Dismemberment
- Significant disfigurement
- A fracture
- Loss of a fetus
- Permanent loss of use of a body organ, member, function, or system
- Permanent consequential limitation of use of body organ or member
- Significant limitation of use of a body function or system
- A medically determined injury or impairment of a non-permanent nature which prevents the injured person from performing substantially all the material acts which constitute such person’s usual and customary daily activities for not less than ninety days during the one hundred eighty days immediately following the occurrence of the injury or impairment.
Proving that your injuries meet this threshold is often very straightforward, but in many situations requires the experience and expertise of an attorney who has navigated the statutory and case law that becomes the battleground with the insurance company lawyers who will attempt to prevent you from recovering money damages for your injuries. This is a critical juncture where the guidance of an experienced Albany personal injury attorney becomes indispensable.
Immediate Steps to Take After an Accident in Albany
Following your accident, the following recommendations may significantly impact your recovery and the strength of a potential legal claim. If you have been injured in the Albany area, it is crucial to:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Follow medical advice at the scene of the accident and be treated for your injuries. No Fault will pay the medical bills and if you lose time from work, at least some of your lost wages will be covered. There is no “pre-authorization” required to obtain medical treatment.
- Report the Incident: For motor vehicle accidents, file an accident report with the Department of Motor Vehicles as soon as possible.
- Document Everything: If possible, take photographs and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Keep a detailed journal of your symptoms, medical treatment, and how the injury impacts your daily life.
- Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney: Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers whose goal is to prevent you from obtaining fair money damages for your injuries. Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can explain your rights, handle communication with the insurance companies for both No Fault benefits as well as pain and suffering damages. Don’t attempt to navigate this on your own.
The Pillars of Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany: Over A Century of Experience in the Capital District
When facing the formidable challenge of a personal injury claim, the single most valuable step you can take is to retain an attorney with a deep well of experience and a proven history of success. For more than three four decades, the attorneys at Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany, PLLC, have fought hard for the injured throughout Albany, Saratoga Springs, and Upstate New York.
With a foundation built on over 100 collective years of legal experience, the attorneys at Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany have built a reputation as premier trial lawyers dedicated to serving accident victims. Their success in recovering hundreds of millions of dollars for their clients is a testament to their unwavering commitment to those who have placed their faith in them. They have consistently achieved exceptional results in the most challenging cases.
Serving Albany, Saratoga, and the Entire Capital Region
The firm is deeply rooted in the local community, proudly serving the Capital District with two conveniently located offices. The firm’s Albany-area office is strategically situated in Latham, just minutes from Downtown Albany off Northway Exit 7 and a short drive from Albany International Airport. This central location allows the attorneys to provide accessible, exceptional legal care to clients not only in Albany but also in Schenectady, Troy, and the surrounding areas. A second office in Saratoga Springs ensures the same high level of service for clients in Saratoga County and communities to the north, including Clifton Park and Halfmoon. This regional presence demonstrates comprehensive commitment to all injured residents of Upstate New York.
A Philosophy of Fighting for the Injured
The attorneys at Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany understand that after a serious injury, victims are often at their most vulnerable. At the same time, they are forced to contend with powerful insurance companies and corporations determined to protect their own financial interests. The firm’s core philosophy is to level this playing field. They are, as their reputation attests, “not afraid to fight.”
Every case is meticulously prepared for litigation from the outset. This trial-ready approach sends a clear message to the insurance companies and their lawyers: the firm will not accept a settlement offer that fails to fully and fairly compensate their client for their losses. This willingness to take a case to court, backed by a formidable record of courtroom victories, gives superior leverage at the negotiating table and ensures their claims are taken seriously.
A Foundation of Elite Recognition
The legal community itself has consistently recognized the exceptional skill and ethical standards of the firm’s partners. Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany is not merely a collection of attorneys; it is a team of highly acclaimed legal professionals who have earned the profession’s most prestigious honors. The firm and its partners have been:
- Voted Top Lawyers in New York State for multiple years.
- Selected for inclusion in New York Super Lawyers, an honor reserved for the top 5% of attorneys in the state.
- Recognized by The Best Lawyers in America, one of the most respected peer-review publications in the legal profession.1
- Rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest possible rating for both legal ability and ethical standards, based on peer reviews.
This consistent third-party acclamation provides clients with the confidence that their case is in the hands of attorneys who are truly at the top of their field.
A Legacy of Landmark Victories: Proven Results for the Seriously Injured
While experience and accolades are important, the ultimate measure of a personal injury law firm is its ability to deliver results. For over four decades, Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany, PLLC, has consistently secured multi-million-dollar, record-breaking verdicts and settlements that have provided financial security and justice for clients who have suffered catastrophic harm.
The firm’s track record is a verifiable history of landmark victories achieved by the firm’s founding partners. This level of transparency demonstrates profound confidence in their abilities and provides potential clients with concrete proof of what is possible when represented by elite trial lawyers. When a client chooses this firm, they are not hiring a brand; they are obtaining the proven expertise of the attorneys who secured these life-changing results. This direct attribution of success to individual partners is a powerful testament to the caliber of representation every client receives.
The following table highlights just a few of the firm’s most significant achievements on behalf of the seriously injured.
| Attorney | Case Type / Details | Result |
| David J. Taffany | Child Abuse Victim | $42,000,000 |
| Jeffrey K. Anderson | Premises Liability / Products Liability | $17,450,000 |
| Peter J. Moschetti, Jr. | Premises Liability (College Student Injury) | $15,800,000 |
| Jeffrey K. Anderson | Product Liability | $4,800,000 |
| Peter J. Moschetti, Jr. | Product Liability | $4,600,000 |
| Peter J. Moschetti, Jr. | Medical Malpractice (Failure to Diagnose) | $4,200,000 |
| Peter J. Moschetti, Jr. | Assault Case | $3,600,000 |
| Jeffrey K. Anderson | Premises Liability | $3,200,000 |
| Peter J. Moschetti, Jr. | Construction Accident (Fall from Ladder) | $3,000,000 |
These figures represent more than just monetary awards; they represent futures restored. They are the resources that allow a family to cope with the wrongful death of a loved one, provide for a lifetime of medical care for a catastrophically injured person, and hold negligent parties accountable for the immense harm they have caused. This consistent ability to achieve top-tier results in the most complex and high-stakes cases is what truly distinguishes Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany as leaders in Albany personal injury law.
Meet Your Trial Team: The Award-Winning Attorneys of AMT
The exceptional results achieved by Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany, PLLC, are the direct product of the unique and complementary skills of its three founding partners. The firm’s strength lies not only in their individual brilliance but in the synergy of their diverse expertise. Together, they form a comprehensive legal force, offering clients a multi-faceted approach to litigation that combines scholarly strategy, respected advocacy, and unparalleled courtroom prowess.
Jeffrey K. Anderson: The Strategist and Scholar
As the firm’s managing partner, Jeffrey K. Anderson brings 40 years of experience and a deeply strategic mind to every case. He has dedicated his career to representing clients in complex personal injury and wrongful death cases arising from auto accidents, defective products, medical negligence, and unsafe premises.
Beyond his formidable litigation practice, Mr. Anderson is a nationally recognized expert in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), the practice of resolving legal disputes through mediation and arbitration. He is an esteemed member of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals (NADN) and has mediated or arbitrated over 2,000 cases, ranging in value up to $12 million. His expertise is so respected that he served as Chair of the Dispute Resolution Section of the New York State Bar Association from 2023 to 2024. This background gives his clients a significant strategic advantage, as he possesses an insider’s understanding of how to negotiate the most favorable settlements possible.
Mr. Anderson’s commitment to the law extends to shaping its future. He served as an adjunct professor at Albany Law School from 2017 to 2022, where he taught Alternative Dispute Resolution to the next generation of attorneys. Having completed mediation training at Harvard Law School, his academic authority is unquestioned. This unique combination of a trial lawyer’s tenacity and a legal scholar’s insight makes him a powerful and strategic advocate.
Peter J. Moschetti, Jr.: The Respected Advocate and Public Servant
Peter J. Moschetti, Jr. is widely regarded as one of the top personal injury and criminal defense lawyers in Upstate New York.1 His formidable trial skills were forged during his time as a prosecutor in the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office from 1984 to 1987.1 This experience provided him with an invaluable perspective on how to build a case, anticipate the opposition’s strategy, and effectively persuade a jury.
For over 35 years, he has focused on the trial of catastrophic personal injury, wrongful death, and complex medical malpractice actions, securing numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts for his clients.1 His reputation for integrity and legal acumen is so profound that he was appointed by the Governor to serve on the New York State Gaming Commission, a position of immense public trust that regulates all gaming and gambling activity in the state.1
His excellence has been consistently recognized by his peers. Since 2007, Super Lawyers magazine has named him one of the Top 25 lawyers in the Hudson Valley.1 He is also a member of the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell.1 Mr. Moschetti’s career embodies the ideal of a respected advocate who commands authority both in the courtroom and in public service.
David J. Taffany: The Master of Complex and High-Stakes Litigation
David J. Taffany has dedicated his entire career to a single cause: zealously representing clients who have suffered personal injury.1 He is a master of complex litigation, with a particular focus on intricate medical malpractice, product liability, and labor law cases. His career is defined by his ability to take on the most challenging claims and achieve extraordinary results.
Mr. Taffany is renowned for securing numerous verdicts and settlements in excess of $1,000,000. His skill as a trial lawyer was demonstrated in spectacular fashion when he obtained a staggering $42 million verdict on behalf of an adult who was abused as a child—a landmark achievement that underscores his commitment to fighting for the most vulnerable victims.1
The respect Mr. Taffany commands extends beyond his clients to the legal community itself. He is frequently called upon to serve as a mediator in federal court for its Alternative Dispute Resolution program, a role reserved for attorneys whose judgment and expertise are trusted by judges and fellow lawyers alike.1 His accolades are a reflection of his elite status, including being named to The Best Lawyers in America every year since 2015, being selected as a Super Lawyer since 2010, and being recognized as one of The National Trial Lawyers-Top 100 Civil Plaintiff attorneys.
Comprehensive Representation for Every Type of Albany Injury Claim
The attorneys at Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany, PLLC, provide expert legal representation across the full spectrum of personal injury and wrongful death cases. The firm’s extensive experience ensures that no matter how an injury occurred, clients have an advocate with a deep understanding of the applicable laws and a proven strategy for success. This breadth of practice is consistently reinforced by a track record of winning substantial compensation for clients.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Collisions involving cars, trucks, and other vehicles are among the most common causes of serious injury in the Capital District. The firm handles all types of motor vehicle accident claims, including:
- Car Accidents: Representing victims of rear-end collisions, hit-and-run accidents, and crashes caused by distracted or reckless drivers.
- Truck Accidents: These cases are often devastating and legally complex. The firm has the resources and expertise to take on large trucking companies and their insurers.
- Motorcycle, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Accidents: Advocating for the rights of vulnerable road users who are often ignored by negligent drivers, resulting in catastrophic injuries.
- Bus and Commercial Van Accidents: Handling claims involving public and private transportation entities.
Premises Liability (Slip, Trip & Fall)
Property owners have a legal duty to maintain a safe environment for visitors. When they fail in this duty, the consequences can be severe. The firm’s skill in this area is undisputed, as evidenced by Jeffrey K. Anderson’s $17.45 million settlement and Peter J. Moschetti, Jr.’s $15.8 million verdict in premises liability cases.
The firm represents clients injured due to:
- Slips and falls on wet floors, icy sidewalks, or uneven surfaces.
- Dog bites or attacks from unrestrained animals.
- Inadequate security leading to assault.
- Swimming pool accidents and injuries from fires or explosions.
Medical Malpractice
Few case types are as complex or emotionally fraught as those involving medical negligence. Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany has distinguished itself through its partners’ skill in these challenging claims, a fact noted by local publications like the Times Union. The firm’s success is exemplified by Peter J. Moschetti, Jr.’s $4.2 million settlement for a failure to diagnose a spinal fracture. Their expertise includes:
- Failure to Diagnose or Misdiagnosis: Cases involving delayed diagnosis of conditions such as cancer.
- Surgical and Anesthesia Errors: Holding medical professionals accountable for mistakes made in the operating room, including laparoscopic injuries.
- Infant Birth Injuries: Representing families whose children have suffered preventable harm during labor and delivery.
- Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect: Protecting the rights of elderly residents who have been harmed by the negligence of their caregivers.
Construction and Workplace Accidents
Construction sites are inherently dangerous, and New York’s Labor Law provides special protections for workers. The firm advocates on behalf of injured workers, leveraging their knowledge of these laws to secure just compensation. Peter J. Moschetti, Jr.’s $3 million settlement for a worker who fell from a ladder highlights their proficiency in this area. They handle cases involving falls, equipment malfunctions, and other on-the-job accidents.
Products Liability
Manufacturers have an obligation to ensure their products are safe for consumers. When a defective or dangerous product causes harm, the firm has the experience to hold corporations accountable. Peter J. Moschetti, Jr.’s $4.6 million verdict and Jeffrey Anderson’s $4.85 million verdict in products liability case is a clear demonstration of their ability to win these complex claims. The firm handles cases involving vehicle defects, recalled products, and faulty medical devices such as those involved in hip replacements.
Catastrophic Injuries & Wrongful Death
For families facing the most devastating losses, the firm provides compassionate and tenacious representation. They handle cases involving life-altering injuries such as brain and spinal cord damage, severe burns, and paralysis. In the tragic event of a fatal accident, the firm pursues wrongful death claims to provide a measure of justice and replace the financial support a family has lost. An example is the $2.6 million recovery achieved by Peter J. Moschetti, Jr. in a medical malpractice wrongful death action.
The AMT Difference: “They Make You Feel Like You Are The Most Important Client They Have”
Beyond the courtroom victories and prestigious awards lies the true measure of Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany: the profound and lasting impact they have on the lives of their clients. The firm operates on a simple, powerful promise: “We Treat You Like Our Only Client.” This is not a mere marketing slogan; it is the consistent, lived experience of the people they represent, as reflected in their heartfelt testimonials.
The praise from former clients reveals a law firm that combines elite legal skill with genuine humanity. This is a critical distinction for individuals and families navigating one of the most difficult periods of their lives. The words of those who have walked this path before provide the most compelling evidence of the firm’s character and commitment.
A Culture of Compassion and Support
Clients consistently speak of the kindness and empathy they received from the moment they first contacted the firm. They describe attorneys who listened to their concerns and guided them through an emotional process with understanding and support.
- One client, Robert B., who was badly injured in an accident, described his experience with Peter Moschetti, Jr.: “He was positive, truthful and supportive throughout the entire process. He made a very difficult and stressful situation much easier for me and my wife. Peter is a first-class attorney who is very personable, approachable and understanding.”
- Another client praised Mr. Moschetti’s ability to connect on a human level: “He was extremely personable and able to help me through my proceedings with kindness and compassion.”
- This sentiment is echoed by others who found an advocate who was not only a brilliant attorney but also “approachable, empathetic, and gave us faith that everything would be ok.”
Unwavering Communication and Accessibility
At Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany, keeping clients informed is a top priority. Testimonials frequently highlight the accessibility of the attorneys and their dedicated support staff, ensuring that questions are always answered, and clients never feel left in the dark.
- A client represented by David Taffany noted, “My attorney David Taffany and paralegal Denise McNeill always kept me informed about the progress of my case.”
- This team-based approach is a hallmark of the firm’s service. Clients who worked with Peter Moschetti, Jr. similarly praised his team: “Either Peter or his assistant, Darlene, were always available for questions or concerns over the next two years.”
- Another client confirmed this commitment to responsiveness: “Any questions or concerns were always answered in a timely manner.”
A Relentless Dedication to Achieving the Best Results
Ultimately, clients seek out Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany for their proven ability to win. The testimonials confirm that the firm’s compassionate approach is backed by a fierce and tireless work ethic aimed at securing the best possible outcome.
- As one client emphatically stated: “Wonderful law firm. They make you feel like you are the most important client they have. They work extremely hard to get you the best results.… I highly recommend them to anyone in need of a great law firm that will fight to get you the best results possible.”
- Another review highlights the firm’s perseverance in a challenging case: “Peter took my case even though it wasn’t simple, and worked it diligently until resolution was achieved… all the while persevering with a no-nonsense attitude against great resistance from the opposing legal team. In the end, we won.”
- This dedication culminates in tangible success, as summarized by Robert B.: “Finally, Peter negotiated a very favorable settlement, and I am truly thankful that I had him as my attorney”.2
The specificity of this praise—naming not only the partners but also the paralegals who support them—paints a clear picture of a law firm where every member of the team is personally invested in the client’s well-being and success.
Your Local Advocates in Albany and Saratoga Springs: Taking the Next Step
Making the decision to seek legal help is a significant step toward protecting your future. The attorneys at Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany, PLLC, are committed to making that process as clear and stress-free as possible. To address some of the final questions you may have, the firm provides the following information.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the benefits of hiring a personal injury lawyer?
An experienced attorney levels the playing field against insurance companies, who have vast resources dedicated to minimizing your claim. A lawyer will handle all legal complexities, gather evidence, negotiate on your behalf, and, if necessary, take your case to trial to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you are legally entitled to.
- How much does a personal injury lawyer cost?
Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany handles personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis. This means you do not owe any attorney’s fee unless you receive compensation through a settlement or verdict. In New York, this fee is typically a percentage of the net recovery, ensuring that quality legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. This “no fee unless you win” promise removes the financial risk of pursuing a claim.
- How long will my personal injury claim take?
The timeline for a personal injury claim varies greatly depending on the specifics of the case. Some cases may settle in a matter of months, while more complex cases that require litigation can take two or more years to resolve. The duration depends on factors such as the severity of the injuries, the time it takes for the victim to reach maximum medical improvement, and whether the insurance company is willing to negotiate a fair settlement.
- What are the stages of a personal injury claim?
While each case is unique, a claim that proceeds to litigation generally follows several key stages:
- Investigation: Gathering evidence, police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
- Discovery: The formal process where both sides exchange information and evidence.
- Depositions: Sworn, out-of-court testimony from parties and witnesses.
- Settlement or Trial: The case is either resolved through a negotiated settlement or proceeds to a trial in court where a judge or jury will render a verdict.
Your Local Advocates in the Capital District
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in Albany, Saratoga Springs, or anywhere in the Capital District, exceptional legal care is close by. When your health, your financial stability, and your future are on the line, you deserve proven and caring advocates who will make your case their priority.
Contact Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany, PLLC, to schedule a free, confidential, and no-obligation consultation to discuss your rights and legal options. Spanish-speaking services are also available.
Albany / Latham Office
Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany, PLLC
26 Century Hill Drive, Suite 206
Latham, NY 12110
Phone: (518) 785-4900
Saratoga Springs Office
Anderson, Moschetti & Taffany, PLLC
6 Butler Place
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Phone: (518) 802-4594
References:
https://www.albanyny.gov/2178/File-Online-Report