New York Car Accident Lawyer

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.

What Causes Most Car Accidents in New York?

Understanding what caused your accident matters because it shapes who is liable and what evidence your New York car accident attorney needs to build your case. The most common causes our firm investigates include the following.

Distracted Driving

New York prohibits drivers from using a handheld mobile phone or any portable electronic device while operating a vehicle in motion. Despite strict penalties, distracted driving contributed to 36,646 police-reported crashes in New York State in 2025, 82 of which were fatal, making it the single most common contributing factor in all crashes statewide. Phone records, traffic camera footage, and witness accounts all help establish that a driver was looking at a screen rather than the road at the moment of impact.

Drunk and Drug-Impaired Driving

When a driver causes an accident while impaired, the injured party can pursue the driver directly for all resulting damages. New York law also extends liability to bars, restaurants, and other licensed establishments that served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who then caused injury to another. This means your claim may reach beyond the driver to the business that handed them another drink and sent them back onto the road. Drunk driving cases often involve criminal charges running alongside your civil claim, and the evidence gathered in the criminal case can be powerful in yours.

Speeding

Speed amplifies the force of every collision. A driver traveling 20 miles per hour over the limit who rear-ends another vehicle causes exponentially more damage than the same impact at the legal limit. Speeding contributed to more than 25% of all traffic deaths in New York City between 2020 and 2025. In a serious injury case, evidence of excessive speed strengthens both the liability argument and the basis for more serious damages.

Drowsy Driving

Fatigue impairs reaction time and judgment in ways that closely mirror alcohol impairment. Commercial truck drivers, rideshare drivers working back-to-back shifts, night shift workers, and anyone who has gone without adequate sleep create serious risks on New York roads. Drowsy driving cases often require phone records, GPS logs, shift schedules, and employment records to establish how long a driver had been awake before the crash. Our firm pursues that evidence early before it can be overwritten or lost.

Road Hazards and Roadway Design Defects

Not every dangerous road condition results from driver error. All of the following can cause serious accidents:

• Potholes, 
• Missing signage, 
• Faded lane markings, 
• Defective traffic signals, and 
• Negligent road design. 

When a government entity owns or maintains the road, different rules apply. You must file a Notice of Claim with the responsible agency within 90 days of the accident before you can pursue a lawsuit. Missing that deadline eliminates your right to recover entirely, regardless of how clear the negligence is. If your accident involved a road condition on a city, county, or state-maintained road, contact a NY car accident lawyer the same day.

Vehicle Defects and Product Liability

When a defective tire, a failed brake system, a faulty airbag, or another manufacturing defect contributes to a crash, the vehicle manufacturer or parts supplier may share liability with the at-fault driver. These product liability claims run parallel to the negligence claim. They can significantly expand the total recovery available, particularly when a defect affects multiple vehicles, and the manufacturer had prior knowledge of the problem.

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.

New York law defines a serious injury as one that results in at least one of the following: 

• Death,
• Dismemberment,
• Significant disfigurement,
• A fracture,
• Loss of a fetus,
• Permanent loss of use of a body organ, member, function, or system,
• Permanent consequential limitation of use of a body organ or member, or
• Significant limitation of the use of a body function or system.

If your injury qualifies, a New York car crash lawyer can help you file a third-party claim for additional damages.

As of May 27, 2026, the category that previously allowed claims based on temporary injuries preventing normal daily activities for 90 of the first 180 days after an accident no longer exists under New York law. If your injury qualifies under one of the remaining categories, a New York car accident attorney at our firm can help you pursue a third-party claim for damages beyond your no-fault coverage.

How Do We Prove Your Injury Meets New York’s Serious Injury Threshold?

New York law requires objective medical evidence to establish that your injury qualifies as serious. The categories that remain after the 2026 reform all require documentation that goes beyond a treating physician’s written narrative. 

The evidence that carries the most weight includes:

• Diagnostic imaging. High-resolution MRIs or CT scans that show structural damage, such as disc herniations, fractures, or permanent joint damage, provide the court with objective proof of an injury and its specific nature.
• Quantified range-of-motion testing. Medical records should specify the measurable degree of lost mobility, such as a 30% loss of cervical rotation, rather than general descriptions of discomfort or pain.
• Physician disability notes. Records stating that a patient cannot perform specific physical functions, sit for a defined period, or return to work provide the specificity courts require to establish a permanent or consequential limitation.
• Consistent treatment records. Physical therapy and specialist notes that document functional limitations over time build a record that defense experts find difficult to dispute at trial.

The 2026 reform raised the evidentiary bar. Claims that previously relied on temporary activity restrictions no longer qualify. Our job is to build the complete medical record from the beginning, before the insurance company’s doctors have a chance to minimize your injuries, so that the evidence supporting your threshold argument is in place before we file the first motion.

What Is the 30-Day No-Fault Application Deadline?

New York requires you to submit your application for no-fault benefits within 30 days of the accident. Missing this deadline gives your insurer grounds to deny your claim entirely, leaving you personally responsible for medical bills that PIP would otherwise cover. If your injuries prevented you from filing on time, exceptions may apply, but they require prompt legal attention. Contact a New York car accident lawyer immediately after any accident so this deadline does not slip past you.

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, and
• Chronic pain and nerve damage

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.

What Factors Determine the Value of Your Car Accident Case?

No formula produces a precise settlement number, but several factors consistently shape what a case is worth. The severity and permanence of your injuries sit at the center of the analysis. A fracture that heals completely in eight weeks carries a different value than a spinal injury that requires surgery and permanently limits your mobility. Beyond the injury itself, courts and insurers examine:

• Liability evidence. The strength of the case against the at-fault driver and whether fault is disputed directly affects what an insurer is willing to pay.
• Economic losses. Past and future medical costs, lost wages, and lost earning capacity all factor into the total damages picture.
• Serious injury threshold. How clearly your injuries meet the threshold under New York law determines whether pain and suffering damages are available at all.
• Insurance coverage. Whether the at-fault driver carries adequate insurance or whether SUM coverage applies shapes the practical ceiling on recovery.
• Defendant conduct. Egregious behavior such as drunk driving can support a claim for punitive damages in appropriate cases.

The gap between what an insurer offers on first contact and what a case is worth is often substantial. Our job is to document every category of loss, build the liability argument from the investigation forward, and make sure the evidence supports the number your injuries justify, not the number that is easiest for the insurer to defend.

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 Specific Accident Types Does Our Car Accident Law Firm Handle?

Left-Turn and Right-Turn Accidents

Left-turn accidents are among the most dangerous intersection crashes because the turning driver crosses oncoming traffic. Drivers making left turns carry a presumption of fault in most cases. However, we can overcome that presumption with evidence of the oncoming driver’s speeding or a red-light violation. 

Right-turn accidents most commonly involve a driver cutting off a cyclist or pedestrian in a crosswalk, or merging into an adjacent lane without checking mirrors. Intersection camera footage and witness accounts are often decisive in both scenarios.

Rollover Accidents

Rollovers often involve SUVs, trucks, and taller vehicles that become unstable during sharp evasive maneuvers or high-speed turns. Liability may rest with the driver who caused the evasive action, the vehicle manufacturer if a design defect contributed to the instability, or the road authority if a defective shoulder or guardrail worsened the rollover. Rollover crashes frequently result in catastrophic injuries, and identifying every responsible party from the start is critical to a full recovery.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups

Pileups on New York highways and bridges involve complex liability questions because multiple drivers contribute to the chain of collisions in different ways. The driver who caused the initial impact, drivers who followed too closely, and drivers who failed to slow down in reduced visibility all potentially share fault. New York’s modified comparative negligence rule means that your own percentage of fault can reduce or even eliminate your recovery, making early fault investigation critical in every multi-party case.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

If a driver hits you and flees, your uninsured motorist coverage becomes your primary source of compensation. What most people do not realize until it is too late: New York requires physical contact between your vehicle and the fleeing vehicle to trigger your UM policy. A driver who runs a red light, forces you off the road, and disappears without making contact may leave you without UM coverage for that incident, even though another driver caused your injuries. 

Some essential steps to take to protect your claim include:

• Documenting the scene immediately, 
• Locating witnesses who can identify the other vehicle, 
• Seeking medical attention right away, and 
• Contacting an attorney before giving any statement to your insurer. 

The decisions you make in the first 48 hours after a hit-and-run can determine whether you have a viable path to compensation.

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.

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.

When Do You Need a New York Car Accident Lawyer?

You need legal representation any time your injuries require medical treatment beyond emergency care, you miss work, the other driver disputes fault, a government vehicle was involved, or the insurance company contacts you for a recorded statement. Insurers train their adjusters to gather information that limits their liability. A recorded statement made without legal guidance can permanently damage a valid claim, often before you understand what you actually gave away.

Minor fender-benders with no injuries and no disputed liability may not require an attorney. Everything else does.

How Much Does a NY Car Accident Attorney Cost?

Greenspan & Greenspan handles car accident cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs and no hourly bills at any point during the process. 

Before representation begins, we explain exactly how we calculate fees and costs so there are no surprises when your case resolves. For anyone managing medical bills and lost wages simultaneously, this structure ensures experienced legal representation from the first conversation.

How Do You Choose the Right Car Accident Law Firm?

Look for a firm with a demonstrated record in car accident litigation, attorneys who handle your case directly rather than handing it to a paralegal after the intake call, and a clear explanation of how fees and costs work before you sign anything. Ask whether the firm takes cases to trial or settles everything before the courthouse steps. Insurance companies track which firms try cases, and that knowledge directly shapes how seriously they treat every demand they receive.

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 Ends 2025 with the Fewest Traffic Deaths Ever Recorded

New York City recorded 205 traffic deaths in 2025, a 19% decline from 253 fatalities in 2024, and the lowest total since record-keeping began in 1910. Overall, traffic deaths have fallen by thirty-one percent since the launch of Vision Zero in 2014. 

Child fatalities reached near-record lows, with six deaths recorded in 2025, down 63% from 16 in 2024. NYC DOT credited large-scale street safety redesigns, expanded protected bike infrastructure, newly pedestrianized spaces, and targeted enforcement with driving the historic decline. 

These record-low numbers reflect years of coordinated effort, but they do not eliminate the risk. Hundreds of people still suffer serious injuries on New York City streets every year. When negligence causes one of those injuries, the legal system exists to hold the responsible party accountable.

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.

Why Do TLC and Rideshare Vehicles Dominate City Crash Data?

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, 18 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.

Why Does Your Location Matter in a Rideshare Accident?

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.

How Do We Navigate the 2026 TLC Policy Landscape?

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 Can the New “Split Coverage” Rules 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.

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.

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 changed its comparative negligence rule for motor vehicle cases on May 27, 2026. Under the new law, you can still recover compensation if you share some responsibility for the accident, but only if your percentage of fault does not exceed the combined fault of all other parties involved. If a jury finds you more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering in a car accident case.

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.

Legal References Used to Inform This Page:

To ensure the accuracy and clarity of this page, we referenced official legal and other resources during the content development process:

NYC DOT, Traffic Deaths Reach All-Time Low (January 2, 2026).

Use of mobile telephones, N.Y. Veh. & Traf. Law § 1225-c (2015).

Use of portable electronic devices, N.Y. Veh. & Traf. Law § 1225-d (2015).

Compensation for injury caused by the illegal sale of intoxicating liquor, N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 11-101 (2014).

Notice of claim, N.Y. Gen. Mun. Law § 50-e(2026).

Serious injury definition, N.Y. Ins. Law § 5102(d) (2026).

Damages recoverable when contributory negligence or assumption of risk is established, N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 1411(b) (2026).