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.
Car Accident Lawyer Who Fights Hard—And Cares Even More
Injured in a car crash? We handle everything—from your first call to your final result—so you can focus on healing. Our team is known for going above and beyond to deliver results and treat every client with compassion and respect.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers TodayWhat 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.
Case Result: Unsafe Roadwork Ends Truck Driver’s Career — We Fought for His Future
Max was doing his job early one winter morning, delivering oil through Harlem. The city street had recently been dug up for resurfacing, and large metal plates had been laid over the trench. As Max’s oil truck drove over the final plate, it gave way — it hadn’t been secured properly. The truck dropped violently, and Max slammed his head into the cab roof.
At first, Max thought he got lucky. He didn’t feel seriously hurt and returned to work. But the pain persisted. Weeks later, he learned the injury was far worse than expected. He eventually needed spinal fusion surgery. The injury ended his trucking career and left him struggling financially.
We took his case to federal court and built a strong claim against the company responsible for the unsafe trench covering. Just before trial, we secured a substantial settlement that helped Max move forward with his new life abroad.
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.
How Do We Pierce No-Fault Limits?
New York’s no-fault law prevents lawsuits for pain and suffering unless you can prove a “serious injury” as defined by statute. If your injury does not meet one of the nine statutory categories, your case may be dismissed before reaching a jury.
To overcome the no-fault law, your New York car accident lawyer must show that your injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold using objective clinical evidence, such as:
- Diagnostic imaging. High-resolution MRIs or CT scans that show structural damage, such as disc herniations, can explain your functional limitations.
- Quantified range-of-motion (ROM) testing. Medical records should specify the degree or percentage of lost mobility, such as “30% loss of cervical rotation,” rather than relying on subjective descriptions.
- Physician disability notes. Notes stating “patient is totally disabled and should refrain from working” or “patient cannot sit for more than 20 minutes” provide the specificity required by the court.
- Consistent progress notes. Physical therapy records that document your functional limitations over time create a strong record that is difficult for defense experts to dispute.
By meticulously assembling this objective medical record, we transform subjective pain into a legally recognized disability that insurance companies cannot ignore. This aggressive, evidence-based approach is the key to bypassing restrictive no-fault caps and securing the maximum compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.
How Do We Use the 90/180-Day Rule to Pierce the No-Fault Limits?
If your injury is considered temporary, you may still meet the threshold using the 90/180-day rule. You must show that your injury prevented you from performing substantially all of your usual daily activities for at least 90 of the first 180 days after the accident.
“Substantially all” does not require being bedridden or paralyzed. New York courts look for a significant curtailment, meaning your injury must have fundamentally changed your ability to manage:
- Professional life—your inability to perform core job functions or work full hours;
- Household and family—needing help with childcare, cleaning, or grocery shopping; and
- Personal care—requiring assistance with hygiene, dressing, or basic mobility.
Minor inconveniences rarely meet the legal standard. For example, if you continued working but stopped going to the gym, the defense may argue your life was not substantially affected.
Accurate documentation is essential to support your claim. Your auto accident lawyer uses objective medical evidence and witness testimony to demonstrate how your life has changed.
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 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
Even if your injuries are not immediately visible, that does not mean they are not serious.
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 while impaired by alcohol or drugs,
- 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.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM) and How Does it Protect You?
How Does Supplementary Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (SUM) Bridge the Compensation Gap?
New York law requires all motorists to carry a minimum UM limit of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. However, if a driver has only a minimum-limit policy, it generally won’t cover the full cost of serious accidents. Supplementary uninsured/underinsured motorist (SUM) coverage, also known as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM), addresses this gap.
SUM coverage provides compensation when the responsible party does not have liability insurance or the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your damages. This coverage requires your insurer to pay for your damages as if they were the at-fault driver. For example, if the at-fault driver has the state minimum of $25,000 and your losses total $150,000, your SUM coverage can pay the remaining $125,000, up to your policy limits. Without SUM, you may need to pursue a claim against the driver’s personal assets.
Your SUM coverage cannot exceed your own liability limits. For instance, if your liability coverage is $100,000, your SUM limit is also capped at $100,000. Insurers must offer SUM limits up to $250,000/$500,000, and umbrella policies must provide at least $500,000 in total SUM coverage.
Your insurer pays up to your SUM limit, minus any amount received from the at-fault driver. For example, with a $100,000 SUM policy and a $25,000 payment from the at-fault driver, your insurer would pay the remaining $75,000.
Previously, SUM coverage was optional, leaving many drivers unprotected. For policies issued after June 16, 2018, New York requires insurers to provide SUM limits equal to your bodily injury limits by default.
How Do We Uncover Hidden Assets?
If the at-fault driver lacks adequate coverage, your car accident insurance claim lawyer will search for hidden assets. We use a thorough investigative process to identify overlooked financial resources:
- Corporate umbrella audits. If a commercial vehicle or delivery truck hits you, we investigate the parent companies, franchises, and secondary “umbrella” policies that may provide millions in additional coverage.
- Asset discovery and liens. We can perform comprehensive asset searches on the at-fault driver. In New York, personal assets can be used to satisfy a judgment if an at-fault driver is sued and their insurance coverage is insufficient.
- Vicarious liability. We investigate the vehicle’s owner. In New York, the owner is vicariously liable for the driver’s negligence.
By identifying secondary layers of liability and personal assets, our firm strategically leverages all available financial resources to hold negligent parties accountable for the damages they have caused.
Are New York State Roads Getting Safer?
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) has released preliminary 2025 data showing a significant decrease in fatal crashes across most of New York State. This improvement is attributed to a Safe System Approach that combines education, targeted enforcement, and improved road engineering.
Key Statistical Highlights (January to October 2025)
While one life lost is still one too many, the latest data suggests that our heightened focus on infrastructure and driver awareness is beginning to yield measurable results.
- Overall fatalities decreased by 11% statewide, dropping from 766 in 2024 to 681 in 2025.
- Motorcycle fatalities saw a notable reduction from 157 deaths in 2024 to 134 in 2025.
- Upstate New York experienced a significant improvement, with fatalities falling from 490 to 420.
This progress is the result of a coordinated strategy led by the GTSC, Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and Department of Transportation (DOT) that focuses on:
- Targeted enforcement—funding for campaigns specifically tackling impaired, distracted, and drowsy driving;
- Safe system approach—a DOT initiative that manages road infrastructure to minimize the impact of human error and reduce the likelihood of serious injury when crashes do occur; and
- Public education—massive marketing efforts like “Drive Safe Long Island,” which is set to expand to a statewide “Drive Safe New York” campaign in 2026.
Despite these improvements, a persistent volume of serious injuries in high-density areas reminds us that safer roads require a continuous commitment to protecting the most vulnerable New Yorkers through every mile of our infrastructure.
New York City Department of Transportation Reports Near-Record Low Fatalities in 2025
The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) reports that traffic fatalities in the first three quarters of 2025 reached the third-lowest level on record. Vision Zero projects and expanded protected bike lanes contributed to an 18% decline in traffic deaths compared to the same period in 2024.
The data record in the first three quarters of 2025 reflects across-the-board safety improvements for nearly every category of road user:
- Overall fatalities—dropped from 194 in 2024 to 159 in 2025;
- Motor vehicle occupants—sharpest decline in fatalities, falling 37.5% from 40 to 25 deaths;
- Pedestrians—fatalities decreased by 10%; and
- Traditional cyclists—reached a record low of 3 deaths.
These near-record lows are due to improved street engineering, expanded protected bike infrastructure, and new pedestrian spaces. The DOT remains committed to targeted enforcement to protect vulnerable road users.
What Are the Inherent Dangers of New York City’s Transport Landscape?
Although statewide fatalities have declined, serious injuries in New York City remain a concern. In the third quarter of 2025, 940 New Yorkers sustained serious injuries. The city’s inherent dangers involve complex interactions among pedestrians, cyclists, and professional drivers.
TLC (Taxi and Limousine Commission) vehicles pose unique risks compared to standard passenger cars, as they operate continuously in high-congestion areas:
- “Dooring” hazards. Passengers frequently exit into active bike lanes or oncoming traffic. Dooring incidents can cause severe injuries to cyclists and pedestrians.
- Driver fatigue and app distraction. TLC and rideshare drivers often work long hours, and managing multiple ride-hail apps and GPS devices can reduce reaction times.
- Aggressive and unpredictable maneuvers. Drivers may make abrupt lane changes or sharp turns without signaling to secure fares or reach destinations quickly.
- Unsafe passenger loading. According to NYC DOT, stopping in prohibited areas such as active bike lanes is a primary factor in pedestrian-vehicle conflicts.
Ultimately, these factors create a volatile environment in which the pressure for profit often outweighs public safety. Recognizing these professional hazards is the first step in holding negligent drivers accountable.
MTA Buses and the “Notice of Claim” Trap
MTA bus accidents involve strict legal requirements. Unlike private accidents, claims against the New York City Transit Authority or any other government transportation agency require a notice of claim to be filed within 90 days. Missing this deadline may prevent recovery for bus-related injuries.
How Are Delivery Trucks Redefining Road Danger in New York?
The growth of e-commerce has changed New York’s traffic patterns, increasing risk in certain areas. Between 2017 and 2022, eighteen new distribution facilities opened, leading to higher crash rates. NYPD data shows that 78% of nearby areas experienced more injury-causing crashes, with injuries within a half-mile radius rising by 16% on average. Truck-related crashes increased by 146%, and truck-injury crashes rose by 137%.
Warehouse clusters increase congestion and risk, especially where multiple facilities are close together. In Maspeth, Queens, annual crashes near FedEx and Amazon facilities rose by 53% and 48%, respectively. Four hubs in East New York saw similar increases. Some sites experience up to 1,000 truck trips per day. At 13 of 18 locations studied, truck-related injuries increased by 137%, indicating these hubs impact the safety of nearby residential streets.
When a delivery truck causes a serious collision, we pursue accountability beyond the driver by holding the parent corporation responsible under the doctrine of respondeat superior. Lawsuits against companies like Amazon, FedEx, or UPS may provide access to higher coverage, as commercial insurance policies typically offer greater recovery limits than personal policies.
The insurance landscape for Uber and Lyft in New York is a tale of two jurisdictions. Depending on whether your accident occurs within the five boroughs or elsewhere in the state, the financial safety net available to you can vary by over $1 million. Understanding these regional complexities is vital for ensuring you are not left with life-altering medical debt.
Within New York City, Uber and Lyft vehicles are regulated as “for-hire vehicles” (FHVs) by the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC).
- Liability limits. TLC only mandates $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident for bodily injury.
- Personal injury protection (PIP). As of March 1, 2026, the mandatory no-fault (PIP) coverage for NYC rideshares was cut in half, dropping from $200,000 to $100,000.
- The SUM gap. NYC for-hire vehicles are not required to carry supplementary uninsured/underinsured motorist (SUM) coverage.
- The “independent contractor” defense. Even though Uber may carry “excess” policies, it frequently argues in court that its drivers are independent contractors. This legal maneuver is designed to shield the corporation from liability for a driver’s negligence.
Outside New York City, the level of protection available to you depends entirely on the driver’s status at the time of the collision.
If the driver is offline and using the vehicle for personal reasons, only their personal auto insurance applies, which in New York means the state minimums of $25,000 per person.
When the driver is en route to pick up or transporting passengers, liability coverage increases to $1,250,000, with matching SUM coverage. No-fault (PIP) benefits remain at $50,000. The policy also includes contingent collision and comprehensive coverage if the driver has similar personal coverage.
As of 2026, the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) has revised its insurance requirements. While intended to stabilize the market, these changes may leave accident victims with less protection and greater financial risk.
What Challenges Do You Face With the New Insurance Authorization Rule?
Insurance carriers must now be authorized by the Superintendent of Insurance to operate in New York State. The TLC no longer requires carriers to be “solvent and responsible,” instead relying on the Department of Financial Services (DFS). While this simplifies the process for owners, authorization does not guarantee prompt payment of claims. If a carrier becomes insolvent, victims may face payment delays and must seek recovery through the New York State Guaranty Fund, which is often slow and capped.
How the New “Split Coverage” Rules Can Delay Your Recovery?
Effective January 1, 2026, TLC permits split coverage, allowing vehicle owners to use multiple policies to meet minimum requirements. While this provides flexibility, it can cause disputes among insurers and delay payments. All carriers must be authorized by the New York Department of Financial Services, giving victims access to the New York State Guaranty Fund if an insurer fails
Personal Injury Protection Coverage Slashed in Half: Why Does This Matter for Your Recovery?
If you are involved in a crash with a New York City taxi or rideshare vehicle, be aware that, as of March 1, 2026, mandatory personal injury protection (PIP) coverage for TLC vehicles has been reduced by 50%.
- Previous limit—$200,000 per person.
- New limit—$100,000 per person.
PIP coverage pays for basic economic loss, including emergency room visits, surgeries, psychiatric care, and physical therapy. Reducing this limit to $100,000 significantly decreases the safety net for accident victims.
- Faster exhaustion of benefits. In severe collisions, medical bills may exceed $100,000 within the first week. Once this limit is reached, the insurer stops paying your medical providers directly.
- Increased financial vulnerability. Victims may find themselves personally responsible for medical bills.
- Shift to third-party litigation. As medical expenses may exceed the no-fault cap more quickly, it is increasingly important to have a car accident lawyer who can pursue claims for excess economic loss and pain and suffering.
With the safety net effectively cut in half, the financial stakes of a collision are higher. A car crash lawyer can help ensure your financial future doesn’t end up in ruins.
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.