Auto Accident Lawyers Serving New York
A car accident can disrupt every part of your life in an instant. In the days that follow, you may be dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and growing pressure from insurance companies. You will start to receive medical bills and possibly miss time from work. You may not know what steps to take next.
If you were injured in a crash caused by someone else, a New York car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and move forward with confidence.
At Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, we understand that no two car collisions are the same. Every case has its own unique story, with its own set of stressors and long-term consequences. That is why we offer clear, legal guidance tailored to your specific situation, and we handle everything from start to finish, so you can focus on your healing.
What to Do After a Car Accident in New York
If you were involved in a crash anywhere in New York State, there are a few important steps to take as soon as possible:
- Report the accident to law enforcement if anyone was injured or if property damage exceeds $1,000;
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine in the moment;
- Notify your own insurance provider;
- Request a copy of the police report when it becomes available;
- Keep track of all medical records, receipts, and time missed from work; and
- Avoid speaking with the other driver’s insurance company without legal representation.
You may feel pressured to move quickly. Insurance adjusters may push you to accept a settlement before you understand the full scope of your injuries. But before signing anything, talk with a trusted New York car accident attorney. One conversation can make a significant difference.
Common Types of Car Accidents We Handle
Our firm has helped clients across New York recover compensation after a wide range of crashes, including:
- Rear-end collisions,
- T-bone or side-impact accidents,
- Head-on crashes,
- Hit-and-run accidents,
- Rollover crashes,
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving incidents,
- Distracted driving accidents,
- Multi-vehicle pileups,
- Intersection and highway collisions, and
- Fatal car accidents.
Every claim has its own set of challenges. A New York auto accident lawyer from our team will investigate what happened, gather the necessary evidence, and work to hold the at-fault party accountable.
Understanding New York’s No-Fault Insurance Rules
New York is one of several states with a no-fault auto insurance system. This means your own insurance policy through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) pays for your medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.
However, PIP coverage is limited. It does not cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, or long-term disability. If your injuries are serious and meet the legal threshold, you may be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the driver who caused the crash.
A serious injury in New York can include:
- Bone fractures,
- Significant disfigurement,
- Permanent loss of use of a body part or function, or
- Injuries that prevent you from performing daily activities for at least 90 of the 180 days following the accident.
If your injury qualifies, a New York car crash lawyer can help you file a third-party claim for additional damages.
Injuries That Often Lead to Personal Injury Claims
Some injuries heal quickly. Others do not. The more severe and lasting your condition, the more important it becomes to have legal support. We regularly represent clients with:
- Traumatic brain injuries,
- Spinal cord injuries,
- Neck and back injuries,
- Internal organ damage,
- Broken bones and complex fractures,
- Facial trauma and dental injuries,
- Burn injuries,
- Amputations,
- Chronic pain and nerve damage, and
- Psychological trauma, including PTSD.
Even if your injuries are not immediately visible, that does not mean they are not serious. Delayed pain, limited mobility, and emotional distress are all valid reasons to pursue a claim.
What Compensation Can You Recover in a Car Accident Claim?
Every case is unique. There is no single settlement formula. That said, a successful claim handled by a skilled New York car accident lawyer may help you recover compensation for:
- Emergency room visits and hospitalization;
- Surgery, follow-up care, and physical therapy;
- Diagnostic imaging and lab tests;
- Medication and medical equipment;
- Future medical expenses;
- Lost wages during your recovery;
- Reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job;
- Pain and suffering;
- Loss of enjoyment of life;
- Property damage; and
- Funeral expenses in fatal accidents.
Our job is to make sure every type of loss is well-documented, calculated, and included in your demand for compensation.
Proving Fault in a New York Car Accident Case
To pursue compensation beyond no-fault coverage, you must prove that another party caused or contributed to the crash through negligent behavior. Examples can include:
- Running a red light or stop sign,
- Speeding or aggressive driving,
- Failing to yield the right of way,
- Driving under the influence,
- Following too closely,
- Texting or using a phone while driving, and
- Failing to maintain the vehicle in a safe condition.
Our legal team utilizes police reports, witness statements, crash scene evidence, medical records, and, when necessary, accident reconstruction specialists to construct a clear picture of what happened.
What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?
Unfortunately, not every driver on New York roads carries sufficient insurance. If you are injured by someone without adequate insurance, your own policy may step in if you have uninsured motorist coverage.
These cases are complex and often involve your own insurance company disputing what they owe. A New York car accident attorney from Greenspan & Greenspan can help you navigate these claims and fight for the benefits you are entitled to under your policy.
Why Choose Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers
For over 60 years, we have helped people across New York recover after life-changing injuries. We are a locally rooted team that takes pride in personalized representation, clear communication, and dedication to doing things the right way.
Here is what you can expect when you hire our firm:
- Straight answers about your legal options,
- Clear guidance throughout the process,
- Help dealing with insurance adjusters,
- A deep understanding of New York injury law, and
- A bilingual team ready to assist English and Spanish speakers.
We handle the paperwork, the strategy, the negotiations, and, when necessary, courtroom representation. You focus on getting better. We take care of the rest.
How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in New York?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in New York. However, shorter deadlines may apply if a government entity is involved or if the injured person is a minor.
Waiting too long can put your entire claim at risk. Evidence disappears. Memories fade. Insurance companies become more difficult to deal with. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of building a strong case.
Frequently Asked Questions About New York Car Accident Claims
Below are some of the most common questions we hear from clients about car accidents in New York. These answers are designed to give you clarity as you consider your next steps.
What Should I Do If I Feel Pain a Few Days After the Accident?
Many car accident injuries do not appear immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain, and soft tissue or nerve damage may take time to surface. If you experience symptoms in the days following the crash, seek medical attention right away. Delaying care may affect both your recovery and your legal claim. Be sure to document any new or worsening symptoms and follow your provider’s instructions carefully.
Do I Need a Lawyer If the Accident Was Minor?
Even so-called “minor” accidents can result in serious injuries, especially involving the neck, back, or nerves. If the crash was not your fault, and you are experiencing pain, lost wages, or unexpected medical bills, it may be worth speaking with a New York car accident lawyer. Insurance companies often minimize these claims, and having legal representation helps ensure that your rights are protected from the start.
How Long Will My Case Take to Resolve?
There is no standard timeline for a car accident claim. Some cases settle in a few months. Others, particularly those involving serious injuries or disputes over liability, may take longer to resolve. The process depends on the availability of medical documentation, cooperation with the insurance company, and whether a lawsuit is filed. Your attorney will provide regular updates and help set realistic expectations based on the specifics of your case.
What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?
New York follows a comparative negligence rule. This means you may still recover damages even if you were partly responsible, though your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your share of the fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, your final compensation would be reduced by 20%. A skilled New York auto accident lawyer can help assess your situation and determine how the law applies.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
Most car accident claims are resolved through negotiation and settlement. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation or if there is a dispute about liability, your case may proceed to trial. Your attorney will prepare accordingly and advise you on the best course of action based on the evidence, your goals, and the likely outcome.
Speak with a New York Car Accident Lawyer Today
You did not choose to be in this situation. But you can decide what happens next. If you are hurt, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn, Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers is here to help you regain control.
We have represented car accident victims across New York for decades. We understand the law, the process, and the pressure you are facing. Whether your case involves minor injuries or catastrophic losses, we will treat it and you with the care it deserves.
Call to schedule a free consultation with a New York car accident lawyer at Greenspan & Greenspan today.