Auto Accident Lawyer in New York: Your Guide to Legal Assistance

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in the bustling metropolis of New York City, you might be eligible for significant financial compensation. Contact a dedicated Auto Accident Lawyer In New York at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers at (212) 514-5007 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

For over four decades, the experienced legal professionals at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers have been staunch advocates for individuals like you who have suffered injuries in auto accidents. We are committed to standing up to powerful insurance companies and fighting relentlessly to maximize your financial recovery. Reach out to our Wall Street offices today by phone or online to take the first step towards justice.

Understanding Car Accident Statistics in New York City

NYC Car Accident Stats

New York City, a vibrant hub of over 8.4 million residents, is known for its dynamic energy and, unfortunately, its heavily congested roadways. It’s no surprise that NYC consistently ranks among the cities with the most congested traffic both nationally and globally.

This dense traffic environment inevitably contributes to a high number of car accidents. In 2023, New York City witnessed an average of more than 259 motor vehicle accidents each day. Understanding these statistics is crucial when navigating the aftermath of a collision.

Here’s a detailed look at the car accident statistics in New York City for 2023:

Overview of Collisions in New York City

According to NYPD crash data, there were a staggering 94,657 car accidents reported in NYC throughout 2023. While this figure represents a decrease from the 100,511 crashes reported in 2022, it still highlights the significant risk of accidents on city streets.

Brooklyn and Queens consistently recorded the highest number of collisions, while Staten Island experienced the fewest. February saw the lowest number of accidents (6,696), whereas May had the highest peak with 8,668 crashes.

Injury-Related Accidents in New York City

Of the 94,657 total collisions, a concerning 53,095 resulted in injuries. These injury-causing accidents affected various road users:

Motorists Injured: 23,032
Passengers Injured: 16,434
Bicyclists Injured: 4,842
Pedestrians Injured: 8,787

Alarmingly, there was a 5.8% increase in the number of individuals injured in car crashes between 2022 and 2023, indicating a rising trend in accident-related harm.

Fatal Accidents in New York City

In 2023, New York City tragically experienced 235 fatal car accidents. These devastating crashes resulted in the following fatalities:

Motorist Fatalities: 89
Passenger Fatalities: 38
Bicyclist Fatalities: 22
Pedestrian Fatalities: 86

While the number of injuries increased, there was a slight decrease in fatalities from 2022 to 2023, when 259 people lost their lives in fatal collisions. However, every fatal accident represents an immense loss and underscores the dangers present on NYC roads.

Identifying Dangerous Roads and Intersections in NYC

While car accidents can occur anywhere in New York City, certain locations are statistically more prone to collisions. Research indicates several dangerous roads and intersections in NYC that drivers should be particularly cautious of:

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 areas and planning alternate routes can potentially reduce your risk of being involved in a collision.

Why You Need a New York Auto Accident Attorney at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers

Choosing the right legal representation after a car accident is a critical decision. At Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers, our auto accident attorneys in New York offer over 40 years of dedicated experience in handling complex car accident cases. Our deep-rooted presence in New York City means we understand the unique challenges you face and possess the knowledge and resources to achieve a favorable outcome. We have a proven track record of recovering millions of dollars for car accident victims, and we are prepared to leverage our expertise to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

When you partner with our New York City law firm, you gain access to:

Unwavering Support and Guidance: We provide compassionate and personalized support throughout the often overwhelming legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options every step of the way.
Personalized Case Strategy: We take the time to listen to your story and build our investigation and legal strategy around your unique circumstances and experiences.
Thorough Investigation: We conduct comprehensive investigations into all aspects of your car accident to determine causation, fault, and liability, meticulously gathering and analyzing crucial evidence.
Evidence Gathering and Analysis: We gather and critically analyze all relevant evidence, including police reports, photos, videos, medical records, and witness statements, to build a strong and compelling case.
Expert Communication and Negotiation: We manage all communications with insurance companies and other involved parties, protecting you from aggressive tactics and advocating for your best interests in all negotiations.
Defense Against Liability Claims: We proactively work to refute or minimize any attempts to unfairly assign blame to you for the accident, safeguarding your right to full compensation.
Access to Expert Resources: We collaborate with leading accident reconstruction experts and medical specialists to accurately assess the full extent of your injuries and the long-term impact of the accident on your life.
Aggressive Courtroom Representation: Our experienced NYC trial lawyers are always prepared to take your case to court if necessary. Our strong courtroom reputation is a significant advantage in negotiations, as insurance companies know we will not hesitate to fight for our clients’ rights before a judge and jury.

With a skilled New York auto accident lawyer from Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers by your side, insurance companies will be compelled to offer a fair settlement, knowing they cannot easily undervalue your claim.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in New York, NY

Understanding the common causes of car accidents in New York City can help drivers be more aware and proactive in preventing collisions. Here are some prevalent factors contributing to accidents in the city:

Distracted Driving

Distracted Driving in NYC

Distracted driving is a major concern in NYC, where drivers often face numerous distractions. This occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the road, whether visually, manually, or cognitively. In New York City, driver distraction is a contributing factor in nearly one-third of all car accidents.

Following Too Closely

In congested NYC traffic, maintaining a safe following distance is often challenging but essential. Tailgating, or following too closely, is a frequent cause of rear-end collisions in the city, particularly during rush hour and in heavy traffic conditions.

Failure to Yield

Navigating New York City’s complex traffic patterns requires constant awareness of traffic laws and right-of-way rules. Accidents frequently occur when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way, especially at intersections, during lane changes, or when merging onto highways.

Speeding

Speeding is a dangerous behavior that significantly increases the risk and severity of car accidents. In NYC, despite traffic congestion, speeding remains a factor in many collisions, leading to more forceful impacts and more severe injuries.

Drunk Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol is a reckless and illegal act that has devastating consequences. Drunk driving accidents are a persistent problem in NYC, with an average of 7 to 8 alcohol-related crashes occurring daily.

Improper Passing

Aggressive driving maneuvers, including improper passing, contribute to a significant number of accidents. Unsafe lane changes, passing in no-passing zones, and failing to check blind spots are all examples of improper passing that can lead to collisions. Roughly one in ten car accidents in New York involve improper passing.

Road Defects

The condition of roadways plays a crucial role in driver safety. Road defects such as potholes, inadequate signage, uneven road surfaces, and sharp curves can create hazardous conditions and contribute to accidents, particularly for motorcyclists and bicyclists.

Defective Vehicles and Equipment

In some instances, car accidents are caused by mechanical failures due to defective vehicles or equipment. Brake failures, tire blowouts, airbag malfunctions, and other vehicle defects can lead to loss of control and accidents. In such cases, manufacturers may be held liable for damages.

Understanding Liability and Compensation After a Car Accident in NYC

After a car accident in New York City, understanding how liability and compensation are determined is crucial. New York operates under a no-fault insurance system, but there are avenues to pursue further compensation depending on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident.

New York’s No-Fault Insurance System

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

However, no-fault insurance has limitations. It primarily covers economic losses like medical bills and lost income, but typically does not cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering unless your injuries meet a certain threshold defined by law (e.g., “serious injury”). Insurance companies may also attempt to minimize payouts, making it essential to have legal representation to protect your rights. A New York auto accident lawyer can navigate the complexities of no-fault insurance and ensure you receive the maximum benefits available under your policy.

Identifying All Liable Parties Beyond No-Fault

If your car accident injuries are severe and your losses exceed the limits of your no-fault coverage, you may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party to recover additional compensation, including non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

Potentially liable parties in a New York car accident case can include:

Negligent drivers of other vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles)
Trucking companies (in cases involving commercial trucks)
Bicyclists or pedestrians (if their negligence contributed to the accident)
Bus drivers or transit authorities (in bus accidents)
Taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) drivers and companies
Government agencies (for road defects or negligent maintenance)
Vehicle or parts manufacturers (in cases of defective vehicles)
Mechanics (for negligent repairs)

A thorough investigation by a skilled auto accident lawyer in New York is essential to identify all potentially liable parties and build a strong case for full compensation.

Comparative Negligence in New York Car Accident Claims

New York follows a pure comparative negligence system. This principle dictates that even if you are partially at fault for a car accident, you can still recover compensation, but your award will be reduced proportionally to your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% responsible for an accident, you can recover 80% of your total damages.

Insurance companies and opposing parties will often attempt to shift blame to you to minimize their financial liability. Having an experienced New York auto accident attorney is crucial to protect yourself from unfair blame allocation and ensure your degree of fault is accurately assessed. We will aggressively defend your interests and fight to maximize your compensation, even if you share some responsibility for the accident.

Accidents Involving Uninsured Drivers in New York

Uninsured Driver Accidents

While New York law mandates car insurance, accidents involving uninsured drivers do occur. If you are hit by an uninsured driver, recovering compensation can become more complex, but options are still available.

First, if you have Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage as part of your own auto insurance policy, you can file a claim under this coverage to compensate for your injuries and damages caused by the uninsured driver. UM coverage is designed to protect you in these situations.

Alternatively, you can pursue a lawsuit directly against the uninsured driver. However, recovering compensation from an uninsured individual can be challenging if they lack personal assets. Your auto accident lawyer in New York will explore all avenues for recovery, including investigating whether other parties may be liable (e.g., the uninsured driver’s employer) and pursuing all available insurance coverages to ensure you are not left bearing the financial burden of the accident.

Types of Damages Recoverable in a New York Car Accident Case

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in NYC due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages to compensate for your losses. These damages typically fall into three categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and in certain cases, punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are intended to compensate you for the actual financial losses you have incurred and will incur as a result of the car accident. These are quantifiable monetary losses and can include:

Medical Expenses: Past and future costs of medical treatment, including hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and medical equipment.
Lost Wages and Income: Compensation for lost earnings due to time missed from work, reduced earning capacity, and future income losses resulting from your injuries.
Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your damaged vehicle and other personal property damaged in the accident.
Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Other accident-related costs, such as transportation expenses to medical appointments, assistive care, and modifications to your home or vehicle to accommodate your injuries.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the intangible losses and suffering you have experienced due to the car accident. These damages are more subjective and aim to compensate for the personal impact of your injuries on your life. They can include:

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by your injuries and the accident.
Emotional Distress: Damages for psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other emotional consequences of the accident.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the diminished ability to participate in hobbies, activities, and aspects of life you enjoyed before the accident.
Loss of Consortium: In cases of severe injury, spouses may be able to recover for the loss of companionship, intimacy, and services from their injured partner.
Disfigurement and Scarring: Damages for permanent disfigurement, scarring, and the emotional impact of visible injuries.

New York State does not place caps on non-economic damage awards in personal injury cases.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded in rare cases to punish a defendant for egregious misconduct, such as intentional or malicious actions, or gross negligence. To receive punitive damages, it must be proven that the defendant’s behavior involved a high degree of moral culpability or willful and wanton negligence, exceeding mere carelessness. Punitive damages are intended to deter similar misconduct in the future and are not routinely awarded.

Determining the Value of Your New York Car Accident Case

Understanding the potential value of your car accident case is a crucial step in seeking fair compensation. The value of each case is unique and depends on numerous factors. An experienced auto accident lawyer in New York can thoroughly evaluate your case, considering all relevant aspects to determine its worth.

Factors that influence case value include:

Severity of Injuries: The nature and extent of your injuries, including the need for hospitalization, surgery, long-term care, and rehabilitation.
Medical Treatment Costs: The total amount of past and anticipated future medical expenses.
Lost Income: The amount of lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and future income losses.
Impact on Daily Life: How your injuries have affected your ability to perform daily activities, work, and enjoy life.
Pain and Suffering: The level of physical pain, emotional distress, and mental suffering you have endured.
Property Damage: The extent of damage to your vehicle and other property.
Degree of Fault: The percentage of fault assigned to each party involved in the accident (comparative negligence).
Insurance Coverage: The available insurance policy limits of all liable parties.

To accurately assess the value of your case, our firm collaborates with top accident experts and medical professionals in the New York City area. This collaborative approach ensures we have a comprehensive understanding of the long-term impact of your injuries and can build a strong case for maximum compensation.

Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle in New York City

At Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers, our New York auto accident lawyers have extensive experience handling a wide range of car accident cases throughout New York City, including:

Rear-End Collisions
Frontal Collisions
Side-Impact (T-Bone) Accidents
Sideswipe Accidents
Rollover Accidents
Highway Accidents
Interstate Accidents
Intersection Accidents
Red and Yellow Light Accidents
Speeding-Related Accidents
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Uber and Lyft Accidents & Lyft Accidents
Truck Accidents
Accidents Involving Bicyclists and Pedestrians

Regardless of the specific circumstances of your car accident, we are prepared to provide experienced legal representation and fight for your rights.

Representing Victims of All Types of Car Accident Injuries

We are dedicated to helping car accident victims recover compensation for all types of injuries, including:

Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Back and Shoulder Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and Concussions
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Fractures and Broken Bones
Soft Tissue Injuries
Chest Injuries
Burn Injuries
Eye Injuries
Amputations and Degloving Injuries
Crushing Injuries
Catastrophic Injuries

If you have tragically lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, our wrongful death attorneys are here to provide compassionate support and legal guidance to help you pursue justice and compensation for your devastating loss.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in NYC

After a Car Accident Checklist

The actions you take immediately following a car accident in New York City can significantly impact your health and any potential legal claims. It’s crucial to remain calm and follow these important steps:

Stay at the Scene: New York law requires you to remain at the accident scene if there is property damage, injury, or death. Leaving the scene can result in hit-and-run charges and jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.
Move to Safety: If possible and safe, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further accidents.
Call 911: Contact the police immediately to report the accident. An officer will be dispatched to investigate and create an official police report, which is vital evidence for your claim.
Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and seek medical evaluation immediately, even if you don’t feel seriously injured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical care is essential for both your well-being and documenting your injuries for your claim.
Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved.
Gather Evidence: If you are able, take photos of vehicle damage, accident scene, and your injuries. Collect contact information from any witnesses.
Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not apologize or admit fault for the accident, as this can be used against you by insurance companies. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police and other drivers.
Do Not Accept Quick Settlements: Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after the accident with a settlement offer. Do not accept any offers without first consulting with a New York auto accident lawyer. These initial offers are often far less than what your case is actually worth.
Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to a qualified auto accident attorney in New York as soon as possible to protect your rights and understand your legal options. Direct all further communication with insurance companies to your attorney.

The Cost of Hiring a New York Auto Accident Lawyer

At Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs or hourly fees. Our fees are contingent upon us successfully recovering compensation for you. We only get paid a percentage of your settlement or jury award if we win your case. This arrangement ensures that you have access to experienced legal representation regardless of your financial situation and aligns our interests with yours – maximizing your recovery.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits in New York

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a car accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means you have a limited time frame to take legal action.

Certain exceptions may apply, such as cases involving minors or delayed injury discovery. Claims against government entities have significantly shorter deadlines, sometimes as little as 90 days. It is crucial to consult with a New York auto accident lawyer promptly to ensure you do not miss any critical deadlines and preserve your right to pursue compensation.

Contact a New York Auto Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in New York City, don’t delay seeking legal help. Contact Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced auto accident lawyer in New York. We are here to answer your questions, explain your rights, and help you navigate the path to recovery and justice.

Contact our NYC law office or call us now at (212) 514-5007 to schedule your free case evaluation. We are available to meet you at our office, your home, the hospital, or any location that is convenient for you. Time is limited, so take action now to protect your future.

Top 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 their listing. These are based on Yelp’s top-rated auto repair shops.

New York City Car Accident Client Review

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