Car Accident Lawyer NYC: Get the Compensation You Deserve

Have you been injured in a car accident in New York City? You may be entitled to significant financial compensation to cover your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. The experienced car accident lawyers in NYC at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the maximum recovery possible. Call us today at (212) 514-5007 for a free, no-obligation case review.

For over four decades, Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers has been a trusted advocate for car accident victims throughout New York City. Our dedicated legal team understands the challenges you face after an accident. We are committed to providing personalized legal representation, standing up to insurance companies, and maximizing your financial recovery. Contact our Wall Street office or reach out online to begin your journey to justice.

Understanding Car Accidents in New York City: Statistics and Key Facts

Navigating the bustling streets of New York City comes with inherent risks, and car accidents are an unfortunate reality. As a densely populated metropolis, NYC experiences a high volume of traffic collisions. Understanding the statistics and common factors contributing to these accidents is crucial for all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians in the city.

New York City Car Accident Statistics: A Closer Look

NYC Car Accident Statistics

New York City’s extensive population, exceeding 8.4 million residents, directly correlates with its notorious traffic congestion. Ranked among the most congested cities globally, NYC’s roadways are often packed, increasing the likelihood of traffic incidents. In 2023 alone, New York City witnessed an average of over 259 car accidents daily, underscoring the frequency of collisions in the five boroughs.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of car accident statistics in New York City for 2023, derived from NYPD crash data:

Total Car Accidents: In 2023, there were 94,657 reported car accidents across New York City. While this figure represents a decrease from the 100,511 crashes reported in 2022, it still reflects a significant number of collisions. Brooklyn and Queens consistently recorded the highest number of accidents, while Staten Island typically experienced the fewest. February saw the lowest accident count with 6,696 incidents, whereas May recorded the peak with 8,668 crashes.

Injury-Causing Accidents: A substantial portion of these accidents resulted in injuries. Out of the total 94,657 collisions, 53,095 led to injuries. This includes:

23,032 injured drivers
16,434 injured passengers
4,842 injured bicyclists
8,787 injured pedestrians

Alarmingly, there was a 5.8% increase in the number of injury victims from car accidents between 2022 and 2023, highlighting the growing risk of injuries on NYC roads.

Fatal Car Accidents: In 2023, there were 235 fatal car accidents in New York City, resulting in tragic loss of life. The victims included:

89 drivers
38 passengers
22 bicyclists
86 pedestrians

While the number of injuries increased, there was a positive decrease in fatalities from 2022 to 2023, with 259 deaths reported in the previous year.

Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in NYC

While car accidents can occur anywhere in New York City, certain roads and intersections are statistically more prone to collisions. These high-risk areas often experience heavy traffic, complex road designs, or visibility issues. Knowing these locations can help drivers exercise extra caution and potentially avoid accidents.

Some of the notably dangerous roads and intersections in NYC include:

Ludlow Street and Rivington Street, Manhattan
Tillary Street and Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn
2nd Avenue and East 59th Street, Manhattan
Bushwick Avenue and Jamaica Avenue and the Jackie Robinson Parkway, Queens
East 138th Street and Alexander Avenue, The Bronx
6th Avenue & West 23rd Street, Manhattan
Jay Street & Tillary Street, Brooklyn
Atlantic Avenue & Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn
3rd Avenue & East 14th Street, Manhattan
Chrystie Street & Delancey Street, Manhattan
St. Nicholas Avenue & W. 141st Street, Manhattan
Allen Street & East Houston, Manhattan
Graham Avenue & Grand Street, Brooklyn
Jay Street & Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn
Roebling Street & South 4th Street, Brooklyn
58th Street & Roosevelt Avenue, Queens
Castleton Avenue & Clove Road, Staten Island
37th Avenue and 101st Street, Queens

While avoiding these specific intersections cannot guarantee accident prevention, being aware of these high-risk zones allows for more vigilant driving and route planning to potentially minimize risks. If you have been involved in an accident, a Car Accident Lawyer In Nyc can help you understand your rights and options.

Why Choose Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers as Your NYC Car Accident Attorney?

After a car accident in NYC, choosing the right legal representation is paramount. Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers brings over 40 years of dedicated experience in handling complex car accident cases in New York City. Our deep-rooted presence in the heart of NYC, particularly in the Wall Street area, gives us unparalleled insight into the local legal landscape and the challenges faced by accident victims.

Our commitment to our clients is unwavering. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support, guiding you through every step of the legal process. Our track record speaks for itself – we have successfully recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for car accident victims, demonstrating our ability to achieve favorable outcomes for our clients.

When you partner with our New York City car accident lawyers, you gain a team that will:

Provide Compassionate Support and Guidance: We understand that this is an overwhelming time. We offer empathetic support and clear guidance, ensuring you are informed and comfortable throughout the legal process.
Listen to Your Story: Your experience is central to your case. We take the time to listen and understand your perspective, using your story as the foundation for our investigation and legal strategy.
Conduct Thorough Investigations: We leave no stone unturned in investigating the circumstances of your car accident. Our meticulous approach ensures that we gather all relevant facts and evidence to build a strong case.
Gather and Analyze Evidence: We are adept at collecting and scrutinizing critical evidence, including police reports, photos and videos, medical records, and witness statements. This evidence is crucial in establishing causation, fault, and liability.
Manage All Communications: Dealing with insurance companies and other parties can be stressful. We handle all communication on your behalf, protecting you from potentially damaging interactions and ensuring your rights are asserted.
Challenge Liability Claims: Insurance companies may attempt to shift blame to you. We aggressively work to disprove or minimize any claims of shared fault, safeguarding your ability to recover maximum compensation.
Consult with Experts: We collaborate with accident reconstruction experts and medical specialists to comprehensively assess your case, understand the full extent of your injuries, and accurately determine the long-term value of your claim.

Our reputation as skilled trial lawyers precedes us. Insurance companies are well aware of our courtroom prowess and are often more inclined to offer fair settlements to avoid facing us before a judge and jury. Having a seasoned NYC car accident lawyer from Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers in your corner significantly strengthens your position and compels insurers to treat your claim seriously.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in New York City

Understanding the common causes of car accidents in New York City is crucial for both prevention and for establishing liability after a collision. Many accidents are not simply “accidents” but are the result of negligence or recklessness.

Leading Factors in NYC Car Accidents

Causes of Car Accidents in NYC

Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a pervasive issue in NYC and a leading cause of accidents. Any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the road – whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio – constitutes distracted driving. In New York City, distractions are a factor in approximately one-third of all car accidents.
Following Too Closely (Tailgating): In heavy NYC traffic, maintaining a safe following distance is often challenging, but essential. Tailgating, or following too closely, reduces reaction time and significantly increases the risk of rear-end collisions, a frequent type of accident in congested city conditions.
Failure to Yield: Navigating the complex traffic patterns of New York City requires constant awareness of right-of-way rules and traffic laws. Failure to yield when merging, turning, or at intersections is a common error that leads to numerous accidents.
Speeding: Despite the often slow-moving traffic, speeding remains a significant factor in NYC car accidents. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected events and increases the severity of injuries in a crash due to the heightened force of impact.
Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal and extremely dangerous. Despite public awareness campaigns and strict laws, drunk driving continues to be a major cause of car accidents in NYC. On average, there are several drunk-driving accidents every day in the city.
Improper Passing: Aggressive driving behaviors, including improper passing, contribute to a significant number of collisions. Attempting to pass in no-passing zones, on shoulders, or without adequate visibility puts all drivers at risk.
Road Defects: The condition of NYC roads can also contribute to accidents. Potholes, inadequate signage, poorly maintained roads, and sharp curves can create hazardous driving conditions and cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles.
Vehicle and Equipment Defects: In some instances, car accidents are caused by vehicle malfunctions or defective parts. Brake failure, tire blowouts, or airbag malfunctions can lead to accidents where the driver is not at fault, but rather a product defect is to blame.

If you believe your accident was caused by any of these factors, a car accident lawyer in NYC can investigate and help determine liability.

Determining Liability in a New York City Car Accident

After a car accident, determining who is responsible, or liable, is crucial for pursuing compensation. New York’s legal framework involves both no-fault insurance and the potential to sue negligent parties.

Navigating New York’s No-Fault Insurance System

New York operates under a “no-fault” insurance system. This means that regardless of who caused the accident, your own insurance (Personal Injury Protection or PIP) is generally the first source of compensation for your medical expenses and lost wages. This system is designed to expedite compensation and reduce lawsuits for minor accidents.

However, no-fault insurance has limitations. It primarily covers economic losses like medical bills and lost income, but typically does not cover pain and suffering. Furthermore, there are thresholds that must be met to step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver for additional damages.

Insurance companies, even your own, are businesses focused on minimizing payouts. They may try to deny or undervalue your claim. This is where a car accident lawyer in NYC becomes invaluable. We understand the intricacies of no-fault insurance and can effectively advocate for your rights to ensure you receive the full benefits you are entitled to under your policy.

Identifying All Liable Parties Beyond No-Fault

In cases of serious injury, the costs can quickly exceed the limits of no-fault insurance coverage. In such situations, you may need to pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault party to recover full compensation for all your losses, including pain and suffering.

Liability in a car accident can extend beyond just the other driver. Potentially liable parties can include:

Negligent Drivers: Drivers who violate traffic laws, drive distracted, impaired, or recklessly.
Employers: If a driver was working at the time of the accident (e.g., truck drivers, delivery drivers), their employer may be vicariously liable.
Vehicle Manufacturers: If a defect in a vehicle caused or contributed to the accident.
Government Entities: If road defects or negligent road maintenance were factors.
Other Road Users: In some cases, pedestrians or cyclists could be partially or fully liable for causing an accident.

Identifying all potentially liable parties requires a thorough investigation. Our NYC car accident attorneys at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers have the resources and experience to conduct comprehensive investigations, identify all responsible parties, and pursue all available avenues for compensation.

Recovering Compensation After a Car Accident in NYC

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New York City, you are likely facing significant financial burdens. Fortunately, the law allows you to recover compensation for your losses.

Types of Damages You Can Recover

In New York, you can typically recover two main types of damages: economic and non-economic damages. In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded.

Economic Damages: These are intended to compensate you for the direct financial losses you have incurred due to the accident. They are quantifiable and include:
- Medical Expenses: Past and future medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, therapy, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Past and future lost income if you are unable to work due to your injuries.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your damaged vehicle or other property.
- Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Expenses directly related to the accident, such as transportation costs to medical appointments, and necessary home modifications due to disability.
Non-Economic Damages: These damages compensate you for the intangible losses that are a consequence of your injuries. They are more subjective but equally real and significant. Non-economic damages include:
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other psychological trauma resulting from the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Diminished ability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.
- Loss of Consortium: Impact on your relationship with your spouse or partner due to your injuries.
Punitive Damages: Punitive damages are rarely awarded and are intended to punish egregious misconduct. They are only considered when the at-fault party’s behavior was grossly negligent or intentionally harmful.

A skilled car accident lawyer in NYC can help you understand the full scope of damages you are entitled to and work diligently to maximize your recovery.

Comparative Negligence in New York

New York follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your total damages will be reduced by 20%.

Insurance companies will often try to assign you a higher percentage of fault to reduce their payout. It is crucial to have a NYC car accident attorney who can effectively counter these tactics and protect your right to fair compensation, even if you were partially responsible.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured Driver Accidents

Unfortunately, not all drivers in New York City comply with insurance laws. If you are hit by an uninsured driver, or a driver with insufficient insurance, recovering compensation can be more complex.

Fortunately, you can protect yourself by purchasing Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage as part of your own auto insurance policy. UM coverage provides benefits if you are injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver. Your own insurance company will step in to cover your damages, up to the limits of your UM policy.

Even when dealing with your own insurer under UM coverage, they may still attempt to minimize your payout. A car accident lawyer in NYC experienced in UM claims can effectively navigate these situations and ensure you receive the full benefits of your UM coverage. We can also explore other avenues for recovery, such as pursuing the uninsured driver personally, although this may be less fruitful if they lack assets.

What is Your Car Accident Case Worth?

Determining the value of your car accident case is a critical step in seeking fair compensation. Every case is unique, and numerous factors influence its worth.

Factors Affecting Case Value

Many elements contribute to the valuation of a car accident case. These include:

Severity of Injuries: More serious injuries, requiring extensive medical treatment, long-term care, or resulting in permanent disability, generally lead to higher case values.
Medical Expenses: The total cost of your past and future medical care is a significant factor.
Lost Income: The amount of income you have lost and will lose due to your injuries.
Impact on Daily Life: How your injuries have affected your ability to perform daily activities, enjoy hobbies, and maintain your quality of life.
Pain and Suffering: The level of physical pain and emotional distress you have experienced.
Property Damage: The extent of damage to your vehicle and other property.
Liability: The clarity of fault and the strength of evidence against the at-fault party.
Insurance Coverage: The available insurance policy limits of the at-fault party and any applicable UM/UIM coverage.

To accurately assess the value of your case, it’s essential to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer in NYC. We can thoroughly evaluate all aspects of your accident and injuries, gather necessary evidence, and consult with experts to build a strong case for maximum compensation.

Expert Valuation and Negotiation

Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers has established relationships with leading accident experts and medical professionals in the New York City area. We leverage these resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of the long-term impact of your injuries and accurately project your future needs.

Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will aggressively advocate for your best interests. We will present a compelling case to the insurance company, supported by solid evidence and expert opinions, to maximize your settlement potential. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and fight for you in court.

Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle in NYC

At Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers, we handle a wide spectrum of car accident cases throughout New York City. No matter the type of collision or the complexity of the circumstances, our experienced team is ready to provide dedicated legal representation.

Common Types of Collisions

We have extensive experience representing clients injured in various types of car accidents, including:

Frontal Collisions: Often severe due to the direct impact force.
Rear-End Collisions: Frequently caused by distracted driving or following too closely.
Sideswipes: Common in congested traffic and lane changes.
T-Bone Accidents (Side-Impact): Often occur at intersections and can result in serious injuries.
Rollover Accidents: Can be caused by speeding, sharp turns, or vehicle defects.
Highway Crashes: Often involve high speeds and multiple vehicles.
Interstate Accidents: Similar to highway crashes but with interstate-specific regulations.
Single-Vehicle Accidents: May involve road defects, driver error, or vehicle malfunctions.
Multiple-Vehicle Accidents (Pile-ups): Can occur in heavy traffic or inclement weather.
Speeding Accidents: Increased severity due to higher impact forces.
Intersection Accidents: Frequent locations for collisions due to traffic flow complexities.
Red and Yellow Light Accidents: Resulting from traffic signal violations.

Accidents Involving Specific Vehicles

We also handle accidents involving specific types of vehicles and transportation services:

Uber and Lyft Accidents: Involving rideshare vehicles, with unique insurance and liability considerations.
Taxi Accidents: Involving taxis and cab companies.
Truck Accidents: Often complex due to commercial trucking regulations and severe injuries.
Bus Accidents: Involving city buses, school buses, and private buses, with specific liability rules.
Motorcycle Accidents: Often resulting in serious injuries to motorcyclists.
Bicycle Accidents: Involving collisions between cars and bicyclists.
Pedestrian Accidents: Where cars strike pedestrians, often causing severe injuries.

If you have been involved in any type of car accident in NYC, do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your legal options.

Injuries Resulting From Car Accidents in New York City

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers is experienced in representing clients who have suffered all types of injuries in car crashes.

Types of Injuries We Handle

We are dedicated to helping victims recover compensation for injuries such as:

Back, Shoulder, and Neck Injuries: Common in rear-end and whiplash accidents.
Whiplash: A soft tissue injury to the neck caused by sudden forceful movement.
Head Injuries: Including concussions, contusions, and skull fractures.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Severe injuries to the brain that can have long-term consequences.
Burns: Resulting from vehicle fires or chemical exposure in accidents.
Chest Injuries: Including rib fractures, lung contusions, and internal organ damage.
Eye Injuries: From lacerations, impacts, or airbag deployment.
Degloving Injuries: Severe soft tissue injuries where skin is torn away.
Amputations: Loss of limbs due to severe trauma.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord, potentially causing paralysis.
Crushing Injuries: Caused by heavy impact or entrapment.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Fractures and Broken Bones: From minor fractures to complex breaks.
Paralysis: Loss of muscle function, often resulting from spinal cord injuries.
Catastrophic Injuries: Severe, life-altering injuries with long-term disabilities.

In tragic cases of fatal car accidents, we provide compassionate legal representation to families pursuing wrongful death claims. We understand the devastating impact of these injuries and are committed to fighting for the full compensation our clients need to recover and rebuild their lives.

What to Do After a Car Accident in NYC: Essential Steps

Steps After a Car Accident in NYC

The actions you take immediately after a car accident in NYC are crucial for both your health and any potential legal claims. Following these steps can protect your rights and strengthen your ability to recover compensation.

Immediate Actions at the Scene:

Stay at the Scene: New York law requires you to remain at the scene of any accident involving property damage, injury, or death. Leaving the scene can result in serious criminal charges for hit and run.
Move to Safety: If possible and safe, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic flow to prevent secondary accidents.
Call 911: Report the accident to the police immediately. An officer will be dispatched to investigate and create an official police report, which is vital evidence for your claim.
Seek Medical Attention: Your health is paramount. Seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t feel seriously injured at the scene. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical care is essential for your well-being and for documenting your injuries for insurance and legal purposes.

Important Don’ts at the Scene:

Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault or apologizing at the scene, even if you think you might have contributed to the accident. Statements you make can be misconstrued and used against you by insurance companies.
Don’t Accept Early Settlement Offers: Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly after an accident, attempting to offer a quick settlement. Do not accept any settlement offer without consulting with a car accident lawyer in NYC. These initial offers are often far below the true value of your claim.

Post-Accident Steps:

Gather Information: If you are able, exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact information, insurance details, and license plate numbers. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses.
Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and your injuries.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer: As soon as possible after seeking medical attention, contact Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation. We can advise you on your rights, guide you through the claims process, and protect you from making mistakes that could harm your case.
Direct Communication to Your Lawyer: Once you have retained a lawyer, direct all communication from insurance companies and other parties to your attorney. We will handle all communications on your behalf, protecting your interests.

Cost of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer in NYC: Contingency Fees

Concerns about legal fees should not prevent you from seeking the legal representation you need after a car accident. Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers works on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront fees, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

How Contingency Fees Work:

No Upfront Costs: You do not pay any hourly fees or retainers to hire us.
We Cover Case Expenses: We advance all costs associated with your case, such as investigation expenses, expert witness fees, and court filing fees.
Percentage-Based Fee: Our fee is a pre-agreed-upon percentage of the net settlement or jury verdict we obtain for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing for our fees.

This contingency fee arrangement makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. It also aligns our interests with yours – we are motivated to maximize your recovery because our fee is directly tied to the amount we win for you.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits in New York

Time is of the essence when pursuing a car accident claim. In New York, there is a statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit.

General Statute of Limitations:

For most car accident cases in New York, the statute of limitations for negligence lawsuits is three years from the date of the accident. This means you have three years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.

Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations:

Minors: If you were under 18 years old at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be tolled (paused) until your 18th birthday.
Delayed Discovery of Injury: In rare cases where injuries are not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations may begin running from the date the injury was discovered, but this is subject to specific legal rules.
Claims Against Government Entities: If your accident involves a government vehicle or government negligence (e.g., road defects), you may have a significantly shorter time frame to file a claim, often within weeks or months, not years. These claims have strict notice requirements.

Missing the statute of limitations deadline can permanently bar your right to sue for damages. It is crucial to contact a car accident lawyer in NYC as soon as possible after an accident to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable time limits and to protect your legal rights.

Contact Our Experienced NYC Car Accident Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in New York City, Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help. Our dedicated car accident lawyers in NYC are committed to providing you with the skilled legal representation and compassionate support you deserve.

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. Contact our New York City law office today at (212) 514-5007 or reach out to us online to schedule your free case review. If you are unable to travel to our office, we can arrange to meet you at your home, hospital, or another convenient location.

Don’t delay – time is critical. Let us help you understand your rights and fight for the full and fair compensation you are entitled to.

Highly Rated Auto Repair Shops in New York, NY

West Village Auto Repair
743 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10014
Steve’s Auto Repair
615 W 46th St New York, NY 10036
Ludlow Garage
151 Attorney St New York, NY 10002
Midtown Center Auto Repair
537 W 38th St New York, NY 10018

Disclaimer: We do not endorse these companies or profit from having them listed on our website. These were some of the highest-rated auto repair shops on Yelp.

New York City Car Accident Client Review

Client Reviewhttps://goo.gl/maps/xxzs44QmyRqes5vN9
Alt Text: Screenshot of a positive client review for Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers regarding car accident representation in New York City.