NYC Car Accident Lawyer

Why Choose The Barnes Firm for
Your Car Accident Case?

• Our legal team is led by over 40 attorneys across the United States with over 500 years of combined experience. 
• Our mission is to help achieve the best result possible for each and every client through zealous representation, outstanding legal service, and a dedication to fighting for maximum compensation possible.
• We have handled more than 150,000 accident and injury cases, resulting in more than $2.5 billion in recovery for our injured clients. 
• Our attorneys have been recognized for excellence by Best Lawyers in America, LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review, Super Lawyers, Million Dollar Advocates Forum, National Trial Lawyers, and many other respected organizations. 
• We always offer free consultations with our experienced attorneys with no obligation to hire our firm. If you choose The Barnes Firm, you pay nothing unless we obtain compensation for you. 
• Our clients have provided reviews for us due to our outstanding and committed service and representation. 
• Our reach spans across the nation, with offices located in New York City, Oakland, Los Angeles, Long Island, San Diego, Buffalo, and Rochester.

NYC Car Accident Lawyer

New York City has over 1.4 million vehicles traveling on roads daily. Increased traffic and congestion mean car accidents are going to happen. On average, there are over 250 car accidents that occur each day in New York City.

At The Barnes Firm, our trusted car accident attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience helping car crash victims get the best result possible for their car accident case. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, call The Barnes Firm for a FREE case evaluation. Our attorneys are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have regarding your car accident and filing a car accident claim.

Why Do I Need an Attorney After a NYC Car Accident?

After a New York City car accident, insurance companies will usually make you a small offer to pay out quickly and close the case. Don’t put your faith in any insurance company after a car accident, instead, turn to an experienced car accident attorney at The Barnes Firm. We will investigate every aspect of your car accident and the circumstances leading up to it to determine who was at fault and what damages can be recovered.

A NYC car accident lawyer is always available and ready to help you and your family get the best result possible after a car accident in New York City.

Common Causes of New York City Car Accidents

Thousands of people are injured in New York City car accidents each year. At The Barnes Firm, our team of experienced NYC car accident attorneys have helped thousands of people injured in car accidents get the best result possible. Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents:

• Distracted Driving claimed the lives of over 3,000 people in 2020. Driving safely means that you give your full attention to the road. Taking your eyes off the road, even just for a moment, can cause a car accident.
• Speeding contributes to 30% of all traffic fatalities in New York State. Maintaining a safe speed lowers your risk of causing, or being involved in, a car accident.
• Road Rage and driving aggressively can be extremely dangerous. Reckless or aggressive driving contributes to thousands of accidents each year.
• Tailgating is very common on New York City surface roads and streets and is very dangerous. Tailgating is one of the leading causes of rear-end car accidents.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI) causes a motorists reaction time to be slowed and can result in a car accident.
• Road Defects include potholes, debris, obstructed signs, and more. Lack of road maintenance in New York City can lead to accidents.

Alex Bouganim – Personal Injury Lawyer in Manhattan, NY

“Alex Bouganim is the managing attorney at the Manhattan Office of The Barnes Firm. As managing attorney, Alex is responsible for overseeing all of the cases in the Manhattan Office. In addition to focusing his practice on general negligence cases, including car accidents, slip/trip and falls, and wrongful death cases, Alex is the Co-Chair of the firm’s construction site accident department. “

Injuries Resulting from New York City Car Accidents

Depending on the severity of your car accident, injuries can range from minor bruises to lifelong treatment. No matter the severity of your accident injuries, the car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm are equipped to handle your case. Our team of attorneys have helped thousands of car accident victims who may have experienced one or many of the injuries listed below:

• Head Injuries
• Broken Bones
• Whiplash
• Concussions
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Paralysis
• Amputations
• Neck Injuries
• Back Injuries
• Internal Bleeding
• Organ Damage
• Burns
• Wrongful death
• And more…

Keep in mind, injuries may not show up right after a car accident occurs. It may take days or weeks for symptoms to appear. It’s best to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident, as you may have an injury without any symptoms. After seeking medical treatment, call our trusted team of NYC car accident lawyers – we will focus on your case while you focus on recovering.

If you were injured in a car accident because of another parties’ negligence, call (800) 800-0000 today to speak with our team of experienced car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm.

Most Dangerous Intersections in New York City

Over 200,000 car accidents occur each year in NYC. Most accidents occur in Brooklyn and Queens. New York City has some of the states’ most dangerous intersections, including:

• Bronx, NYC
  • East 149th Street & Morris Avenue
  • East 161st Street & Morris Avenue
  • East 138th Street & Alexander Avenue
• Brooklyn, NYC
  • Flatbush Avenue and Tillary Street
  • Jay Street & Tillary Street
  • Atlantic Avenue & Pennsylvania Avenue
  • Graham Avenue & Grand Street
  • Jay Street & Myrtle Avenue
• Manhattan, NYC
  • 6th Avenue & West 23rd Street
  • 2nd Street & East 59th Street
  • Chrystie Street & Delancey Street
  • Nicholas Avenue & West 141st Street
  • Allen Street & East Houston Street
• Queens, NYC
  • 58th Street & Roosevelt Avenue
  • Bushwick Avenue and Jamaica Avenue and the Jackie Robinson Parkway
  • 37th Avenue and 101st Street
  • Queens Boulevard & Long Island Expressway

If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident at one of these dangerous intersections, or somewhere else in New York City, call our team of experienced car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm. We know that the busy streets of New York City can be dangerous and lead to unsafe driving and car accidents. Our team is here to help you get the best result possible after being injured in a NYC car accident.

Who is Responsible for my Car Accident Injuries?

New York State has a no-fault insurance policy. This means, insurance will be the first place you turn after a New York City car accident to receive compensation for your injuries, regardless of who is responsible, or at fault, for the crash.

Insurance companies will often try to settle your claim for less than it’s worth and pay out quickly. They often neglect to evaluate the full extent of your accident and injuries, resulting in a lower payout than you deserve or may require to recover from your injuries.

At The Barnes Firm, our knowledgeable NYC car accident lawyers have decades of experience dealing with insurance companies. We know New York State car accident laws and will negotiate with the insurance companies to help you get the best result possible for your car accident claim.

Comparative Fault in New York

Insurance companies will only pay up to the policy limits after being injured in a car accident. If your claim is denied, or your injuries exceed what the insurance company will pay, you have the right to potentially file an injury claim against anyone who contributed to your car accident injuries. This could include:

• Driver of another vehicle
• Bus drivers
• Truck drivers
• Motorcyclists
• Bicyclists
• Pedestrians
• Taxi drivers
• Uber or Lyft drivers
• E-scooter or moped drivers
• New York City Transit Authority
• Other

Car accident claims can be complicated, especially in New York City. When you choose The Barnes Firm, our car accident attorneys will launch a full investigation into your accident and the events leading up to it to ensure all liable parties are held responsible for their actions. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 and see what your case is worth.

Types of Car Accidents We Handle

At The Barnes Firm, our New York City car accident lawyers handle all types of car and motor vehicle crashes, including:

• Head-on collisions
• T-bone accident
• Sideswipe
• Rear-end collisions
• Rollovers
• Uber & Lyft accidents
• Hit & run crashes
• High speed crashes
• Drunk driving accidents
• Distracted driving collisions
• Other

No matter what type of motor vehicle accident you were involved in, the NYC car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm can help you get the best result possible for your case.

Car Accident Injuries

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in New York City?

In New York State, you have three years after the date of your car accident, or injury discovery, to file a personal injury claim. If you or a family member have been involved in a car accident, an experienced team of NYC car accident lawyer can assist in answering any questions you may have about filing a personal injury claim.

I was Injured in a New York City Car Accident, What Should I Do Next?

The period following a car accident can be overwhelming and stressful. After a car accident in New York City, you should:

• Get To Safety. If you can, move yourself and your car out of the way of oncoming traffic.
• Call 911 to Report the Accident. After making sure you are safe, call 911 to report the accident and request an ambulance.
• Collect Evidence. Take photos of the accident scene and collect information from other drivers and witnesses before leaving. Make sure to request a copy of the police report before leaving the scene
• Seek Medical Attention. Seek medical attention to identify and treat your injuries as soon as you can after a car accident.
• Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney at The Barnes Firm. Don’t accept early settlement offers from insurance after a car accident. Instead, call a trusted car accident attorney at The Barnes Firm. From the first phone conversation, through to the final settlement, our attorneys will work hard to get you the best result possible.

Damages We Can Help Recover After a Car Accident

The compensation you receive after being injured in a car accident will depend on the circumstances surrounding your case. Our New York City car accident attorneys have the knowledge and experience to recover more than just medical expenses for your case. Our attorneys have recovered financial compensation for the following losses after a car accident:

• Lost wages
• Medical bills
• Pain & suffering
• Property damage
• Lost future earnings
• Physical therapy
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of quality of life, and more

A NYC Car Accident Lawyer is Here to Help

At The Barnes Firm, our team of car accident attorneys understand how traumatic a car accident can be. If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident in New York City, contact our team of experienced car accident lawyers.

Call (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation – it could be the best call you make.

How to Choose the Best Car Accident Lawyer in New York City?

Choosing the right car accident lawyer in New York City can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Here are steps and tips to make sure you select the best attorney to represent you:

1. Reputation and Experience: Start by researching potential lawyers’ reputations and years of experience in the field. Look for attorneys with a proven track record of successfully handling car accident cases in NYC. The Barnes Firm, for instance, boasts over 100 years of combined experience.
2. Client Reviews: Read client reviews online to gauge the satisfaction of previous clients. Websites like Avvo, Google, and Yelp provide reviews that can offer insights into the attorney’s professionalism, approach, and results.
3. Personal Attention: Ensure that the attorney you’re considering gives personal attention to each case. You don’t want to be just another case number; you want your attorney to be invested in your situation and accessible when you have concerns.
4. Open Communication: Communication is key. Your attorney should be open, honest, and clear in explaining the processes, possible outcomes, and any potential costs.
5. Contingency Fee Basis: Many car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if you win your case. This aligns their interests with yours and ensures they work hard to secure the best possible outcome.
6. Initial Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation to get a feel for the attorney. This meeting can give you a sense of their approach, dedication, and whether you feel comfortable with them. Remember, many law firms, including The Barnes Firm, offer FREE case evaluations.
7. Resources and Network: A good lawyer often has a network of professionals, including accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other experts, to support your case.
8. Knowledge of Local Courts: Familiarity with the local court systems and judges can be beneficial. Lawyers who know the local court’s procedures and staff might be able to navigate the system more efficiently.
9. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their experience, success rate, number of cases they handle at a time, their assessment of your case, and the expected timeline.

You deserve the best representation possible. Taking the time to carefully select the right attorney can help you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.

Why Choose The Barnes Firm for Your Car Accident Case?

When you or a loved one faces the overwhelming aftermath of a car accident, partner with a law firm that not only understands the intricacies of the law but also empathizes with the emotional and physical challenges you’re facing.

The Barnes Firm stands out as a beacon of hope for many reasons:

1. A Legacy of Excellence: With a history deeply rooted in personal injury practice, The Barnes Firm was founded by Steve Barnes, an advocate dedicated to helping accident victims across the nation. His brother, Rich Barnes, now continues this legacy, bringing over 40 years of legal experience to the table.
2. Decades of Experience: Our attorneys boast a rich history in various personal injury subjects, including car accidents, workplace injuries, medical malpractice, and more. Their combined experience and skill have led to millions of dollars in settlements.
3. Commitment to Clients: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial stress associated with personal injury cases. Our mission transcends just winning the case; we aim to ease your journey toward healing and justice.
4. Nationwide Presence: With attorneys and staff situated on both the East and West Coasts of the U.S., The Barnes Firm is ready to represent you, regardless of your location.
5. Track Record of Success: Our results speak for themselves. From a $7,000,000 settlement in a motorcycle accident to a $1,300,000 win in a car accident, our firm has consistently secured substantial settlements for our clients.
6. Prestigious Accreditations: We’re honored with awards and recognitions, including accolades from Best Lawyers in America, SuperLawyers, and Expertise.com. Additionally, our inclusion in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum underscores our ability to secure high-value settlements.
7. Endorsements and Reviews: Beyond the professional awards, we cherish the endorsements and positive feedback from our previous clients. Their testimonials validate our unwavering commitment to excellence.
8. Dedication to Justice: At The Barnes Firm, it’s not just about compensation – it’s about justice. Regardless of the case size or the challenge posed by the opposition, we remain unyieldingly dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for you.
9. Team Effort: Our success is rooted in teamwork. Our attorneys collaborate, pooling their vast knowledge and experience to ensure every client gets the best representation possible.
10. Honoring a Legacy: The unexpected passing of our founder, Steve Barnes, has only fueled our passion for upholding his dream – to bring justice to Americans wronged by individuals and corporations. With Rich Barnes at the helm, we remain steadfast in our commitment to this vision.

The Barnes Firm isn’t just another law firm. It’s a legacy, a commitment, and a promise to every client we represent. Your fight for justice becomes our own, and with our experience and dedication, we aim to turn the scales in your favor.

How New York’s No-Fault Insurance Affects Car Accident Claims

New York is one of the several states that follow a no-fault insurance system. Understanding the implications of this system is important for anyone involved in a car accident in the state, as it directly affects how you can pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.

Here’s a breakdown of how New York’s no-fault insurance system works and how it can impact your car accident claim:

1. Immediate Coverage, Regardless of Fault: In a no-fault system, your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages (up to your policy’s limits) after a car accident, irrespective of who was at fault. This means that you don’t have to prove that the other driver caused the accident to receive benefits.
2. Limitations on Lawsuits: The no-fault system limits your ability to sue the other driver. You can only step outside of the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver if your injuries meet a “serious injury” threshold defined by the state. This could include significant disfigurement, bone fractures, permanent limitation of a bodily function, or significant limitation of a bodily function, among others.
3. Basic Personal Injury Protection (PIP): New York requires every motor vehicle owner to have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) as a part of their auto insurance policy. This is the primary source of compensation for medical expenses and lost wages after an accident, up to the policy’s limits.
4. Non-Economic Damages: In a no-fault system, you can’t claim non-economic damages like pain and suffering from your own insurance. To claim these, your injuries must surpass the serious injury threshold, allowing you to step outside the no-fault system and sue the responsible party.
5. Property Damage: The no-fault rule in New York applies only to injuries. For vehicle damages or property damage as a result of the accident, the at-fault driver can still be held responsible.
6. Out-of-State Accidents: If a New York resident gets into an accident in a state that doesn’t follow a no-fault system, the New York no-fault laws won’t apply. Instead, the laws of the state where the accident occurred will be followed.
7. The Benefit of No-Fault: While the inability to immediately sue might seem restrictive, the no-fault system was designed to expedite the claims process. Victims receive compensation without the delays of determining fault, ensuring that medical bills and lost wages are addressed promptly.
8. Choosing Additional Coverage: Given the limitations of basic PIP coverage, many New Yorkers opt for additional no-fault insurance to ensure higher protection in the event of serious injuries. This might include additional medical coverage or added protection against lost wages.

In conclusion, while New York’s no-fault insurance system aims to simplify the initial claims process, its nuances, especially when injuries are severe, can be complex. Speaking with our experienced car accident attorneys can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

When Do I Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident?

After a car accident, many people grapple with the decision of whether to hire an attorney. While minor accidents with no injuries might not require legal intervention, there are situations where having an attorney can be beneficial:

1. Serious Injuries or Fatalities: If the car accident resulted in serious injuries, permanent disability, or death, consult our attorneys to ensure you’re adequately compensated.
2. Unclear Liability: If there’s a dispute over who was at fault or if it’s unclear how the accident occurred, our lawyers can help gather evidence and represent your interests.
3. Multiple Parties Involved: In accidents involving multiple vehicles or pedestrians, determining liability can be complicated. Our lawyers can help with these complexities.
4. Insurance Company Issues: If the insurance company denies your claim, delays compensation, or offers a settlement that doesn’t cover your expenses, our attorneys can negotiate on your behalf.
5. Claim Deadline: New York has a statute of limitations for filing car accident claims. If you’re nearing this deadline, our lawyers can help expedite the process.

Insurance Claims vs. Lawsuits for NY Car Accidents

There are two primary avenues to seek compensation after a car accident in New York: insurance claims and lawsuits.

Insurance Claims

This is the initial step most victims take. Under NY’s no-fault system, you’ll first file a claim with your own insurance provider. If your costs exceed your policy’s limits or if you meet the serious injury threshold, you can then pursue a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance.

Lawsuits

If you’re unable to receive adequate compensation from insurance claims, or if the other party disputes their liability, you might need to file a lawsuit. This is especially common in cases of severe injury or significant property damage.

Seeking Compensation for a Car Accident

In New York, victims of car accidents can seek compensation for various damages, including:

1. Medical Expenses: Bills for hospital stays, surgeries, therapy, medication, and future medical care.
2. Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to time off work and potential future loss of earnings.
3. Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace damaged property, often your vehicle.
4. Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages that compensate for physical pain and emotional trauma.
5. Other Costs: This might include transportation costs, rental car expenses, and other related expenses.

How Long Will I Wait for Car Accident Compensation?

The time it takes to receive compensation after a car accident can vary widely based on several factors:

1. Complexity of the Case: Cases with clear fault might be settled quickly, while those with disputes can take longer.
2. Severity of Injuries: If you have ongoing medical treatment, our attorneys might advise waiting to understand the full extent of your injuries and associated costs.
3. Insurance Company Process: Some insurance companies might offer quick settlements, while others can take longer to process claims or engage in negotiations.
4. Legal Proceedings: If a lawsuit is filed, the court’s schedule and associated legal processes can extend the timeline.
5. Your Actions: Promptly seeking medical attention, gathering evidence, and responding quickly to our attorney’s or insurance company’s requests can expedite the process.

While some cases might settle in weeks or a few months, complex cases can take years to reach a conclusion. Consulting with our attorneys can give you a better idea of the timeline for your specific situation.

Common Causes of New York City Car Accidents

New York City, with its dense population and bustling streets, sees a plethora of car accidents, many of which can be attributed to these causes:

1. Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, and other distractions are culprits behind many NYC accidents.
2. Drunk Driving: Despite DUI laws, intoxicated drivers remain a problem on New York roads.
3. Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions can lead to loss of vehicle control and severe accidents.
4. Reckless or Aggressive Driving: Behaviors such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and not yielding the right of way contribute to many collisions.
5. Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, fog, and icy conditions can make roads dangerous, leading to accidents.
6. Failing to Obey Traffic Signals: Running red lights or stop signs is a common cause of intersection crashes.
7. Pedestrians and Bicyclists: With so many people walking or cycling in NYC, accidents involving these groups are unfortunately frequent.

NYC Car Accidents Statistics

(Note: The following statistics are illustrative and may not represent the latest data. Always refer to local agencies for up-to-date information.)

Some of the sources that provide NYC car accidents statistics are:

• The New York City Police Department (NYPD), which publishes reports on collisions and fatalities by borough, intersection, highway, bridge, and tunnel.
• The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), which maintains a Vision Zero Crash & Interventions Map that shows detailed information on traffic crashes and safety initiatives in the city.
• The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which produces reports on motor vehicle crashes by county and region.

Some of the key findings from these sources are:

• In 2021, there were a total of 97,059 car accidents in New York City, resulting in 228 fatalities and 31,060 injuries.
• The most common types of car accidents in NYC were collisions with other vehicles (81,075), followed by pedestrian collisions (8,693), bicycle collisions (5,568), and motorcycle collisions (1,723).
• The most common factors contributing to car accidents in NYC were driver inattention/distraction (28%), failure to yield right-of-way (15%), following too closely (10%), and unsafe speed (9%).
• The most dangerous borough for car accidents in NYC was Brooklyn, with 32,788 collisions, 85 fatalities, and 11,078 injuries. The safest borough was Staten Island, with 3,869 collisions, 9 fatalities, and 1,043 injuries.
• The most dangerous month for car accidents in NYC was October, with 9,439 collisions, 25 fatalities, and 3,039 injuries. The safest month was April, with 6,397 collisions, 13 fatalities, and 2,006 injuries.
• In 2022, there were a total of 39,508 fatal motor vehicle crashes in the United States, resulting in 42,939 deaths. This resulted in 12.9 deaths per 100,000 people and 1.37 deaths per 100 million miles traveled. New York had 1,157 deaths, resulting in 5.8 deaths per 100,000 people and 1.08 deaths per 100 million miles traveled.
• In July 2023, there were a total of 7,859 motor vehicle collisions in New York City, resulting in 620 pedestrians injured or killed, 476 cyclists injured or killed, and 16,940 motorists or passengers injured or killed. The most common factors contributing to car accidents in NYC were driver inattention/distraction (28%), failure to yield right-of-way (15%), following too closely (10%), and unsafe speed (9%).

NY Car Accident Laws

New York operates under a no-fault system, meaning individuals turn first to their own insurance providers for compensation, regardless of who was at fault.

Accident victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For property damage, the limit is also three years.

New York follows the pure comparative negligence rule. This means that if you’re partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you’re deemed 20% at fault and have $100,000 in damages, you may receive only $80,000.

Every vehicle registered in NY must have liability insurance. The minimum coverage limits are $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for bodily injury to all persons and $10,000 for property damage in any one accident.

New York also mandates that all auto insurance policies include uninsured motorist coverage, which protects drivers if they’re involved in an accident with an uninsured or hit-and-run driver.

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Nichole W.

The Barnes Firm was very friendly, always quick to respond to our calls, emails. When we had any questions or concerns they were there to walk us through everything. Would definitely recommend them to anyone that is looking for an attorney that will honestly fight for you and has your best interest in mind.