New York City
Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents happen every day in New York City, from the busy streets of Midtown Manhattanto the crowded neighborhoods of Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Millions ofvehicles move through the city each year, and accidents can range from minor fender bendersto serious crashes that change lives. Victims often face medical bills, lost income, emotionalstress, and insurance companies that try to pay as little as possible.

The Silbowitz Firm has over 30 years of experience helping injured New Yorkers. Our team iscommitted to fighting for fair compensation for every client. We will guide you through the process, handle the insurance companies, and make sure your rights are protected. Call ustoday at (516) 375-6692 to schedule a free consultation and learn your options.

How a New York City Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Car accident claims in NYC can be complex. Our attorneys provide guidance, handlepaperwork, and represent youin negotiations or court if needed. Here’s how we help clients:

• Legal Advice: We explain your rights and options in clear terms so you know exactly what to do.
• Investigation: We collect evidence, interview witnesses, and review police reports to establish who is at fault.
• Insurance Negotiations: We communicate with insurance companies to prevent lowball offers and ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Filing Claims: We prepare and submit all necessary paperwork on time.
• Court Representation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we present a strong case in court.
• Damage Assessment: We calculate both economic and non-economic damages to make sure you receive full compensation.
• Expert Support: We work with medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and other specialists to strengthen your case.

Our attorneys have decades of experience and know how to handle the unique challenges of New York City car accident cases. From navigating crowded streets to understanding local traffic laws, we give you an edge in every claim.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Car Accident

If you are involved in a car accident, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and your legal rights.

1. Stay at the Scene: Never leave the site of the accident. Doing so can result in criminal charges and make your personal injury claim harder.
2. Call the Police: Report the accident and request a copy of the police report. This report is critical evidence for your case.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries appear later. Seeing a doctor ensures your health and protects your legal claim.
4. Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicles, damage, injuries, and the surrounding area.
5. Collect Witness Info: Write down names, phone numbers, and addresses of anyone who saw the accident.
6. Avoid Admitting Fault: Never apologize or accept blame at the scene. Anything you say can be used against you by insurance companies.
7. Contact a Lawyer: Speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure your case is handled correctly.
   

Common Causes of Car Accidents in New York City

New York City streets are congested, fast-paced, and sometimes dangerous. Accidents happen for many reasons:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or looking at navigation apps can take a driver’s attention off the road.
• Speeding: Many drivers ignore speed limits, increasing the risk of serious crashes.
• Reckless Driving: Tailgating, weaving through traffic, and aggressive behavior contribute to collisions.
• Drunk Driving: Alcohol-related crashes account for nearly 30% of fatal accidents in NYC. Never get in a vehicle operated by an impaired driver.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, sleet, and fog reduce visibility and make roads slippery.
• Vehicle Problems: Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or defective parts can cause accidents. In some cases, manufacturers can be held liable.
  

Even small distractions or minor negligence can lead to major injuries, so it’s important to know your rights if you’ve been hurt.

Types of Car Accidents We Handle

Accidents come in all shapes and sizes in NYC. Some of the most common include:

• Rear-End Collisions: Often caused by distracted driving or tailgating.
• Head-On Collisions: High-speed crashes, usually resulting in serious injuries.
• Intersection Accidents: Drivers fail to obey traffic signals, leading to T-bone or side-impact crashes.
• Hit-and-Run Accidents: The at-fault driver leaves the scene without providing information.
• Parking Lot Accidents: Backing up, crowded lots, and limited visibility increase the risk.
• Highway Merges: Improper merging can cause multi-car accidents.
• Sideswipe Accidents: When vehicles brush or scrape each other while changing lanes.
• Drunk Driving Accidents: Collisions caused by impaired drivers.
  

Each accident type requires a detailed investigation to determine fault and maximize compensation.

Common Injuries from NYC Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause life-changing injuries. Some of the most frequent include:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Neck injuries and whiplash
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Burns and lacerations
• Loss of limbs
• PTSD, anxiety, and emotional trauma
• Wrongful death
  

Even minor injuries can lead to long-term medical costs, missed work, and emotional stress. A lawyer can help ensure that every aspect of your injury is considered in your claim.

Types of Damages in Car Accident Claims

Victims may be entitled to several types of compensation:

Economic Damages:

• Medical bills and future care
• Hospital stays and surgeries
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Disability costs
  

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Damage to reputation
• Loss of consortium
  

Punitive Damages:
In rare cases, if the at-fault driver acted maliciously or recklessly, the court may award punitive damages to punish wrongdoing.

NYC Accident Statistics

Car accidents in New York City are more than just numbers—they reflect the risks everyday drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists face in one of the busiest cities in the world. In the first half of 2024 alone, there were 20,642 reported crashes across the city. These accidents led to 27,843 injuries and 141 fatalities, highlighting how dangerous the roads can be even for cautious drivers.

The distribution of crashes varies by borough, showing how traffic patterns, road layouts, and population density affect accident rates:

• Brooklyn: 6,474 crashes, 36 fatalities
  Brooklyn is one of the most densely populated boroughs with narrow streets and heavy traffic. Many accidents occur on major thoroughfares like Flatbush Avenue, Atlantic Avenue, and near the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. Construction zones in Brooklyn also contribute to collisions
• Queens: 5,532 crashes
  Queens has a mix of residential streets and major highways like the Long Island Expressway and Grand Central Parkway. Accidents here often involve speeding or merging errors, especially during rush hours
• Bronx: 3,012 crashes
  The Bronx sees frequent collisions on its tight streets and high-traffic avenues. Pedestrian and cyclist accidents are more common here due to dense neighborhoods and limited crosswalks
• Manhattan: 2,981 crashes
  Manhattan’s accidents often occur in high-density areas like Times Square, Midtown, and the Financial District. Congested streets, taxis, ride-share vehicles, and double-parked cars all contribute to frequent rear-end and intersection crashes
• Staten Island: 933 crashes
  Although Staten Island has fewer crashes due to lower population density, accidents here often involve higher speeds on highways such as the Staten Island Expressway and local roads outside urban areas.

Pedestrians and cyclists face particularly high risks in NYC. Over 4,900 pedestrians and 2,500 cyclists were injured in the first six months of 2024. Many of these injuries occur in crosswalks, bike lanes, and areas with high vehicle congestion. This underscores the importance of legal representation if you’re injured, even as a non-driver, because liability can extend beyond just vehicle operators.

New York Statute of Limitations

In New York, the clock starts ticking from the date of the accident. Victims generally have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit. Waiting too long can make it difficult to gather evidence, locate witnesses, or access critical documents like police reports and medical records.

Early legal action not only preserves evidence but also gives you a better chance at obtaining fair compensation. Filing promptly ensures that your attorney can investigate thoroughly, consult experts if needed, and prepare your case strategically. Even if you are unsure about your injuries or the long-term effects, speaking with a lawyer early is always beneficial.

Costs of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer

One of the biggest concerns for accident victims is cost. Many people worry that hiring a lawyer will be expensive, especially when they are already facing medical bills or lost income. The Silbowitz Firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing up front
• Legal fees are only collected if we win your case
• Fees are a percentage of your settlement or verdict
  

This approach allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about out-of-pocket costs while giving our attorneys a strong incentive to maximize your compensation.

Determining Fault in Car Accidents

Accidents are not always straightforward. Some crashes clearly involve one at-fault driver, but many cases are more complex. Our team carefully investigates the circumstances to determine liability. We review:

• Rear-end collisions in parking lots: Often caused by distracted driving or sudden stops.
• Backing accidents: Common in congested areas or when visibility is limited.
• Collisions at intersections: Frequently involve drivers running red lights or failing to yield.
• Multi-car pileups: Can occur on highways or bridges during heavy traffic or adverse weather conditions.
  

New York follows a comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you are partially responsible for an accident, you can still recover compensation. For example, if a jury determines you are 30% at fault, your total damages are reduced by 30%, but you can still recover the remaining 70%. This law ensures that victims who share some responsibility are not denied compensation entirely.

Handling Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are focused on profit, not your recovery. After an accident, you may encounter tactics designed to minimize payouts:

• Delays in payment: Insurers may stall or request excessive documentation.
• Claims of partial fault: They may argue you were responsible for part of the accident to reduce your settlement.
• Low initial offers: Insurance adjusters often present quick settlements before the full scope of injuries is known.

• Claims are submitted accurately and promptly
• Insurance adjusters cannot pressure you into accepting an unfair settlement
• All your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering are fully considered
  

By letting us manage the insurance process, you can focus on recovery while we work to maximize your compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue for a car accident in NYC?
Yes, if someone else was negligent. New York is a no-fault state, but you can still file a personal injury lawsuit for serious injuries.

How long do I have to file a claim?
Most personal injury claims must be filed within three years from the accident date. Acting quickly improves your chances of success.

Do I have to pay upfront legal fees?
No. We work on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.

What if I was partially at fault?
New York’s comparative negligence law reduces your damages by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover compensation.

What if the driver doesn’t have insurance?
Uninsured motorist coverage protects you. We can help you recover damages through your own insurance if the at-fault driver is uninsured.

Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?
No. Let your lawyer handle all communication. Insurance companies may try to get you to admit fault or accept a low settlement.

Why Choose The Silbowitz Firm

We bring more than 30 years of experience to every case. We fight insurance companies, understand local traffic laws, and have connections with medical experts and investigators. Our team works directly with each client, providing guidance and personal attention from start to finish.

We have helped clients recover millions of dollars for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We know that after an accident, your focus should be on recovery, not on dealing with insurance companies or legal forms.

Call The Silbowitz Firm Today

If you have been injured in a car accident in New York City, don’t wait. Call The Silbowitz Firm at (516) 375-6692 for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.