New York City Car Accident Lawyers

In bustling New York City, the unexpected often happens. On average, thousands of New Yorkers find their lives turned upside down by car accidents every day.

Since 1969, people have turned to The Rothenberg Law Firm. As New York City car accident lawyers we represent and support injured victims and their families to get the compensation they need and deserve.

Some people can walk away from traffic collisions with only bumps and bruises, while others suffer severe injuries and extreme emotional distress.

At The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP, we know that injuries suffered in car accidents can place major emotional and financial burdens on both the victims and their loved ones.

Medical bills pile up quickly, forcing family members to carry the burden of caring for accident victims, arranging medical care, nursing care, physical therapy appointments, and managing medical expenses all at once.

Not to mention doing all this while in pain and wondering how the rent will be paid or if food will be on the table because the car accident victim is too injured to work.

Our team of car accident lawyers in NYC is committed to providing more than just legal representation to New Yorkers; we offer a guiding hand through the often overwhelming aftermath of a car accident.

When a car accident injures you, contact a New York City car accident who not only knows how to win cases but cares enough to restore peace of mind in your time of need. Call (800) 624-8888 and find out if we are the right law firm for you.

Table of Contents

• What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents in New York?
• What Are Some Types of Car Accidents in New York?
• What Are Common Injuries Caused by Car Accidents in NYC?
• Legal Guidance for Accident Victims in New York City
• Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in New York City
• Contact the New York City Car Accident Lawyers

Related article: New York City Injury Lawyers

Why Hire The Rothenberg Law Firm for Your New York Car Accident Case?

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“We don’t see people as cases – we see people with unique stories and challenges who need better representation.” – Allen L. Rothenberg, Esq. 

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When you choose The Rothenberg Law Firm for your car accident case, you’re selecting a team that’s deeply committed to your recovery and justice.

Our approach combines thoroughness, compassion, and a dedication to better representation.

• A History of Remarkable Outcomes. Our firm has a successful record of winning and collecting billions of dollars through substantial settlements, verdicts, and awards for injured New Yorkers. This life-changing amount of compensation has helped our clients start over and move forward with their lives after a tragic car accident.
• A Personalized Legal Journey. We prioritize your needs and ensure that your voice is heard. Everyone from the insurance company to a judge and jury needs to know how your car accident has affected you and what it’s going to take to make it right through monetary compensation. We are compassionate enough to know that your accident case is centered around you.
• Focus on Maximum Recovery. Over the past decades, we’ve come to fully understand the lasting impact that severe injuries can have on people. Our aim is for fair and full compensation that covers both immediate and long-term needs. We will guide you toward the best decisions for your well-being.
• Readiness for Trial: Our team is always prepared to take your case to trial, ensuring that you have a formidable advocate in your corner. We level the playing field against large insurance companies, enhancing the potential for a favorable outcome.
• Client Trust and Loyalty: Through years of dedicated service, we’ve earned the trust and loyalty of our clients by consistently demonstrating our commitment to their cases and understanding the personal impact of their injuries.
• Your Health is Our Priority: Collaborating with medical and financial professionals, we ensure that you receive the best possible care while focusing on your recovery. We handle the legal complexities, allowing you to concentrate on healing.
• Accessible Legal Representation: With our no-fee-unless-we-win policy, we provide top-tier legal representation without financial stress. Our free case evaluation and client-focused financial approach provide access to quality legal services.
• The Rothenberg Method: From day one, we take proactive, aggressive steps to build your case. Utilizing a combination of legal experience, scientific understanding, and modern technology, we prepare each case with meticulous attention to detail.

In choosing The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP, you’re partnering with a firm that not only fights for your legal rights but also genuinely cares about your recovery and well-being.

We stand apart as a law firm fully invested in your journey toward justice and healing in New York City.

What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents in New York?

According to the most recent statistics, Brooklyn had the highest rate of collisions, accounting for 33 percent of the city’s total, with specific intersections like Flatbush Ave. & Coney Island being particularly hazardous.

In contrast, Staten Island was noted as the safest borough, with only 5% of the city’s accidents. Distracted driving emerged as the leading cause of accidents, with 28,753 incidents attributed to this issue alone.

Alcohol and drug involvement were factors in 1,994 accidents while speeding was responsible for 3,940 collisions.

The data also highlights the severe impact of accidents, with 38% resulting in injury or death. Fatalities were more likely at higher speeds or involving vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists, pedestrians, or bicyclists.

Additionally, the report noted that holidays like Labor Day see a spike in accidents, contrasting with lower rates during the Fourth of July and Christmas.

Further emphasizing the gravity of car accidents in New York, other reports highlight demographic risks, with men and older New Yorkers facing a greater risk of fatal car accident injuries.

Despite a decrease in hospitalizations from car accidents, fatalities remain a critical issue, with New York’s car accident fatality rates showing a decline of 18 percent in early data for 2023 compared to the previous year.

This decline suggests a positive trend towards safer road conditions, possibly influenced by improved safety measures and public awareness campaigns.

New York also ranks fourth in the nation for pedestrian accidents and fatalities caused by motor vehicle accidents, underscoring the ongoing challenge of ensuring pedestrian safety in urban environments.

These statistics paint a complex picture of road safety in New York City, illustrating the varied causes and consequences of car accidents across different boroughs and demographics.

The ongoing efforts to reduce accidents and fatalities, such as the Vision Zero program, are crucial in making the city’s streets safer for all users.

What Are Some Types of Car Accidents in New York?

At Rothenberg Law Firm, we understand that each car accident is unique, with its own set of circumstances and challenges.

Recognizing the diverse nature of automobile accidents, we have the experience and skills to successfully represent injured New Yorkers in a wide array of accident types, offering focused legal advice tailored to each situation.

Rear-End Collisions

Often resulting from following too closely or sudden braking, rear-end collisions can lead to serious injuries, including whiplash.

Part of our representation and guidance comes from documenting the accident scene, making sure you seek immediate medical attention after the accident, and gathering witness statements to establish the fault of the party who rear-ended your vehicle.

T-Bone Accidents

T-bone accidents occur when the side of one vehicle is struck by the front or rear of another vehicle, typically at intersections.

These side-impact accidents often involve disputes over right-of-way and traffic signals. Our investigators perform the critical role of studying traffic camera footage and intersection design in establishing liability.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians struck by vehicles can suffer catastrophic injuries. Legal advice for these cases emphasizes the necessity of obtaining comprehensive medical evaluations and the importance of securing surveillance footage that may have captured the accident.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Victims of hit-and-run accidents face unique challenges, including identifying the at-fault driver. Legal advice often involves filing insurance claims under uninsured motorist coverage and an immediate investigation to locate the fleeing driver.

Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups

Multiple vehicle crashes can be complex, with numerous parties and potential liabilities. When you hire a car accident lawyer from our law firm, we present evidence to determine fault, manage communications with multiple insurance companies, and apply New York’s comparative negligence laws.

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Single-vehicle accidents can involve factors like defective vehicle parts, crashworthiness, or hazardous road conditions. We help people pursue vehicle product liability claims against manufacturers or claims against governmental entities responsible for road maintenance.

Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists involved in accidents with vehicles face high risks of injury. After a bike accident, many people wonder who will pay the medical bills. We understand cyclists’ rights on the road and strategies for proving negligence on the part of the vehicle driver.

Rothenberg Law Firm LLP is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate legal support to victims of all types of automobile accidents.

Our experienced team is ready to offer personalized legal advice and representation to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

What Are Common Injuries Caused by Car Accidents in NYC?

In addition to the emotional trauma experienced by motor vehicle crash victims, many victims suffer significant physical pain and a range of injuries:

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – A TBI is a catastrophic injury that is often debilitating
• Spinal Cord Damage – A spinal cord injury can cause permanent disability, including changes in strength, sensation, and mobility, and can lead to paralysis.
• Back and Neck Injury – Over 800,000 car accidents causing back and neck injuries are reported each year.

• Internal Injuries – Internal bleeding and ruptured internal organs are common but serious injuries caused by auto accidents.
• Broken Bones
• Torn Ligaments and Soft Tissue Injuries
• Loss of Body Function

Legal Guidance for Accident Victims in New York City

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. At Rothenberg Law Firm, we provide targeted legal advice to help victims understand their rights and the steps necessary to secure just compensation.

Understanding Your Rights

After an accident, knowing how an attorney can help you recover losses under New York Law brings hope and comfort.

We want our clients to know that they have the right to compensation for damages, the right to refuse to settle quickly with insurance companies, and the right to legal representation.

Our New York car accident attorneys ensure that you fully understand these rights and how they apply to your specific situation.

Legal representation can be a deciding factor in the success of your claim.

An attorney from our law office will help you in the following ways.

• Handle Communications. Managing all communications with insurance companies to avoid missteps that could affect your claim.
• Gather Evidence. Collecting and analyzing evidence to build a strong case.
• Negotiate Settlements. Using their experience to negotiate fair settlements or prepare to take the case to trial if necessary.

Navigating Insurance Claims in New York

Dealing with insurance claims involves understanding policy specifics and the tactics insurance companies may use to minimize payouts.

Our attorneys guide you through this process, ensuring that your claims are accurately presented and vigorously pursued.

When to File a Lawsuit for a Car Accident in NYC

In some cases, filing a lawsuit may be the best course of action, especially if insurance negotiations do not result in a fair settlement.

We provide insights into the decision to file a lawsuit, the process involved, and what to expect in terms of timelines and potential outcomes.

Long-Term Impact and Compensation

Knowing the long-term impact of your injuries is important. We assist in assessing future medical costs, potential lost earnings, and other long-term effects to ensure that any compensation covers all aspects of your recovery.

Emotional and Psychological Support

Car accidents can be traumatic, and we recognize the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological impact.

While our primary role is legal, we guide clients toward appropriate resources for emotional support and counseling if needed.

Our commitment to New York accident victims at The Rothenberg Law Firm goes beyond legal representation.

We provide comprehensive guidance, ensuring that you are informed, supported, and well-represented throughout your journey to recovery and justice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in New York City

Our Lawyers Answer Questions About What Happens After a Car Accident In NYC

Who Will Pay for My Injuries?

New York is a “No-Fault” state, which has both benefits and disadvantages for those seeking financial recovery after being injured in an auto collision.

Under No-Fault insurance laws, your auto insurance provider is obligated to provide you with personal injury protection (“No-fault”) benefits after a car accident, regardless of who was at fault in the accident. 

No-fault benefits are a part of your auto insurance policy and pay for medical treatment and out-of-pocket costs, up to policy limits (a minimum of $50,000). These benefits are a primary source of compensation in almost every injury claim.

No-fault benefits do not cover all losses or situations.  Property damages are not covered, and benefits are not available to owners of uninsured vehicles nor riders and passengers in motorcycle accidents. 

The No-Fault Insurance rules offer New Yorkers two significant advantages. If you are injured in an accident, you will automatically receive coverage for your injuries, regardless of whether you were at fault in the accident. 

This is particularly important when you are injured due to negligent driving by an uninsured driver or underinsured motorist. Importantly, you will receive this compensation relatively quickly.

At the same time, the No-Fault system can hinder your auto accident claim, as it does not allow compensation for additional damages like “pain and suffering” and other non-economic damages suffered in the accident. 

To file a civil claim against the at-fault driver or another liable party for “pain and suffering,” your injuries must qualify as a “serious injury” according to New York law.

To meet the serious injury threshold in New York, accident victims must experience either bone fracture, dismemberment, significant disfigurement, permanent limitation of use of a body organ or member, a significant limitation of use of a body function or system, or a full disability for 90 days.

If you have suffered injuries that meet these criteria, you are not limited to receiving No-Fault benefits from your insurance provider. 

In these instances, you can bring a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party and may seek financial compensation for all types of injuries, both economic and non-economic.

Call an automobile accident attorney today to learn about your legal options.

What Types of Compensation Can I Receive After a Car Accident in New York?

It is impossible to make generalizations about the value of any car accident case without knowing the details of the injuries and the circumstances in which the accident took place. 

The law allows recovery for a wide range of economic and non-economic damages, many of which may not be readily apparent to the injured party. 

By contacting a car accident lawyer from our law firm, you may find that you are eligible for multiple forms of compensation, such as:

• Pain and suffering from physical injuries
• Emotional damages
• Lost past and future income
• Future financial costs and economic losses
• Loss of health care benefits
• Money for future medical bills
• Loss of value of household services
• Non-economic damages such as loss of consortium (where your spouse has been negatively impacted by your injury), loss of quality of life, loss of enjoyment of life, and other non-economic losses
• Punitive damages
• Wrongful death claim (following fatal collisions)

An experienced New York car accident attorney will always consider a range of issues when making determinations about what damages to seek. 

Insurance adjusters are notorious for drastically underestimating the value of victims’ injuries. Only an experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer with a duty to fight for your interests can provide a fair assessment of the value of your case and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injury claim.

Should I Accept the Insurance Company’s Settlement Offer After My Car Accident?

Insurance companies and insurance adjusters are not your friends. Insurance companies aim to pay as little as possible for every claim, to maximize their company’s profits. 

No matter how nice the insurance adjuster seems, the adjuster’s only goal is to pay you as little as possible. The adjuster is usually rewarded for resolving your claims quickly and for as little as possible.

For these reasons, an insurance adjuster will often contact you immediately after your car accident and may even offer to visit you soon after an accident. 

The adjuster’s goal is to convince you to accept a settlement worth far less than you deserve and is often ready to buy you off with immediate payment. 

This is an underhanded tactic used to quickly end the claims process when an injured party is at their most vulnerable. 

It is extremely important not to fall prey to the common practices of insurance companies. There is no reason to rush into accepting a settlement without first seeking legal help. 

You should always think through all decisions before signing away your legal rights without being fully informed of the consequences. Not even your own insurance company works for you – we work for you.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in New York?

The moments following an accident can be the most terrifying time of one’s life. Before anything else, call the police or 911 and make sure that anyone injured in the accident receives the medical attention they require. 

After everyone has received the medical treatment, your next step is to obtain crucial information for your potential lawsuit. 

The responsible party may not remain at the accident scene until a police officer arrives. If possible, collect insurance information, addresses, witness testimony, video evidence, and other relevant information from the other drivers involved in the collision.

Make sure to remain at the scene until a police officer gets to the scene of the accident, and files an accident report. 

The police report will identify the other drivers and vehicles involved in the crash, and the relevant insurance companies and may also include witness statements. An accurate police report is important to ensure relevant evidence is recorded.

Although it is important to honestly answer the police officer’s questions, be careful to avoid saying anything that could be construed as an admission of fault.

If you require medical treatment of any kind, collect any medical documentation or medical records that may be relevant to your claim for compensation.

Finally, seek legal advice from a New York car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

How Much Money Is a Car Accident Worth in New York City?

It is impossible to make generalizations about the value of any car accident case without knowing the details of the injuries and how the accident took place. 

The law allows recovery for a wide range of injuries and monetary losses, many of which may not be readily apparent to the injured party. 

Be careful not to fall for the trap of believing the worth of your case based on the value that an insurance adjuster has placed on your claim or solely on property damage. 

Only an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney with a duty to fight for your interests can provide a fair assessment of the value of your case.

Do I Have a Car Accident Case?

As a general rule, if you were injured as a result of the negligence of someone else, you may have a legal claim against the person who injured you. 

Because every situation is very fact-specific, you should always consult a personal injury attorney to review the facts and circumstances of your situation. 

In many cases, there may be negligent parties who are not immediately obvious, such as government agencies responsible for poor road conditions. Call us for a free consultation to learn how the law applies in your case.

Can I Handle My Car Accident Case on My Own, Or Do I Need a New York City Car Accident Lawyer?

According to New York’s No-Fault rules, there is a 30-day time frame to file a claim for benefits following a car accident. 

Therefore, before proceeding on your own, it is crucial to understand the pitfalls of trying to handle your case without legal representation.

Following a car crash in NYC, especially in our fast-moving city, it is understandable for an individual to want to settle the matter quickly and move on as soon as possible without getting help from an experienced lawyer. But trying to handle the matter on your own will place you at a serious disadvantage.

The party responsible for your accident will almost certainly be represented by insurance lawyers whose sole goal is to pay you as little as possible for your injuries. 

Insurance companies often calculate the value of car accident claims based on how aggressively the injured party fights for full compensation for the harm caused. 

When you retain an experienced car accident lawyer to fight for you, you are ensuring that you are not taken advantage of by the other side.

Retain a lawyer with vast experience in handling car accident cases, who can stand up to the insurance company. 

If the other side refuses to cooperate and your case requires judicial intervention, the lawyer must be prepared to take the case to court for a jury verdict to ensure full and fair recovery.

Knowing that you are willing to take all steps necessary to ensure justice by obtaining experienced legal counsel will often convince the opposing side to make a better offer right from the start.

You need trial lawyers knowledgeable and experienced in New York law to fight for your rights and to show the insurance company that you are serious about your case. 

Our auto accident attorneys will take your injury case on a contingency fee basis, which means that they are only compensated following a successful recovery on your behalf.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for A Car Accident in New York?

New York’s Statute of Limitations allows accident victims to file a negligence lawsuit for up to three years from the time of the automobile accident. 

After a fatal car accident, the family or representative of the decedent has only 2 years to file a wrongful death lawsuit in New York.

Government claims, such as when a car accident is caused by the negligence of a government agency employee or government entity, must be filed more quickly than other legal claims.

Given the time limitations, it is important to call or contact our legal team right away to ensure that you can file a personal injury claim and do not waive your rights to financial compensation.

Should I Accept the Insurance Company’s Settlement After My Car Accident?

It cannot be reiterated enough that insurance companies are in the business of paying as little as possible for every claim, to help them maximize company profits. 

No matter how nice the insurance adjuster seems, the adjuster’s only goal is to pay car accident victims as little as possible. The adjuster is usually rewarded for resolving claims for as little as possible and as quickly as possible, thus taking money away from you that you deserve. 

For these reasons, an insurance adjuster will contact you immediately after your car accident and may even offer to visit you soon after an accident. 

An adjuster often comes ready to make an immediate payment to convince you to accept a settlement worth much less than you deserve. 

This is an underhanded tactic used to end a matter right away when an injured party is at its most vulnerable. 

It is extremely important not to fall for the shady practices of the insurance company. There is no reason to rush into accepting a settlement or offer from an insurance company without first seeking legal help. 

You should always think through all legal decisions and not sign away your legal rights without being fully informed of the consequences.

Do not deal with the insurance company alone. Retain the services of an experienced car accident attorney in New York City who can ensure that your rights are protected.

Contact the New York City Car Accident Lawyers

When you reach out to Rothenberg Law Firm LLP, you’re not just getting legal representation; you’re joining a family deeply committed to your cause.

Our team, a blend of skilled trial lawyers and compassionate legal professionals, is devoted to upholding a tradition of excellence and personal commitment in every case we undertake.

Choosing Rothenberg Law Firm means more than just legal support; it means becoming part of a family that is fiercely dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing a better future for you.

With each case we handle, we understand there’s a life deeply affected by unforeseen events. We embrace your cause as if it were our own, treating you as an integral member of our family.

Our five decades of experience have honed our skills in confronting powerful adversaries, including large corporations and insurance companies.

We strive to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are vigorously defended. Our approach transcends traditional legal representation – we’re here to provide real solutions, steadfast support, and zealous advocacy during your most challenging times.

Our New York City personal injury lawyers take pride in our ability to see each case through, particularly when facing entities that may not fully acknowledge their role in your hardship.

Every case at our office is carefully selected and meticulously prepared, to maximize the compensation you rightfully deserve. We craft each case narrative to be compelling and persuasive, a fact underscored by our track record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements.

Our ultimate goal is to deliver service so exceptional that you would confidently recommend us to others.

This drive for excellence has led us to recover billions of dollars for our clients, continually reinforcing our aspiration to be recognized among the nation’s leading personal injury law firms.

If you’re seeking a law firm that will stand firmly by your side, advocate passionately for your interests, and treat you with the care and respect of family, then Rothenberg Law Firm LLP is here for you.

Let us bring our passion, experience, and commitment to your case, working tirelessly toward the justice and recovery you and your family need.

For a consultation to determine if we’re the right fit for your needs in New York City, please contact us at (800) 624-8888 or speak with our car accident attorneys online. We are ready to support you on your path to justice and recovery.

New York City Office Location

The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP
450 7th Ave 44th Floor,
New York, NY 10123
Phone: (800) 624-8888