Car Accident Lawyers in New York City, NY

Experienced Car Accident Lawyers Serving New York City, NY and Surrounding Areas

With so many vehicles on New York City’s roads every day, car crashes can leave victims with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost income.

At The Barnes Firm, our car accident lawyers help car crash victims pursue the best result possible for their auto accident case. Our New York City office is at 420 Lexington Avenue, and our attorneys handle car accident cases in all five boroughs and work in the local courts. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, call The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation. Our attorneys are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about your accident and filing a claim.

Why Choose The Barnes Firm for Your Car Accident Case?

• Our attorneys handle car accident cases throughout New York City and work in the local courts.
• 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 200,000 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 New York City Office is located at 420 Lexington Avenue Suite 2140, New York, NY 10170. Our attorneys can travel to meet with you.

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 accidents
• 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 crash attorneys at The Barnes Firm can help you get the best result possible for your case.

Car Accident Settlements We’ve Recovered in New York City

• $2,700,000: A client was rear-ended while slowing for traffic and suffered neck and back injuries.
• $1,500,000: A client in a parked vehicle was struck by another vehicle and suffered neck and back injuries.
• $1,250,000: A client was rear-ended and suffered back and arm injuries.
• $1,125,000: A client suffered back, neck, arm, and leg injuries in a car accident.
• $1,000,000: A client was rear-ended while stopped and suffered neck, back, leg, and shoulder injuries.

Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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

Choosing the right auto 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 500 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 auto 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 pursue the compensation you need.

When Do I Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident?

After a car crash, 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 wreck 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 a claim. If you’re nearing this deadline, our lawyers can help expedite the process.

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

After a New York City car crash, 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 auto accident attorney at The Barnes Firm. We will investigate every aspect of your auto accident and the circumstances leading up to it to determine who was at fault and what damages can be recovered.

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

Understanding Car Accidents 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 auto accident attorneys have helped thousands of people injured in car collisions get the best result possible. Here are some of the most common causes of auto accidents:

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.

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 accident, injuries can range from minor bruises to lifelong treatment. No matter the severity of your accident injuries, the car injury lawyers at The Barnes Firm are equipped to handle your case. Our team of attorneys has helped thousands of 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
• Joint pain
• Internal Bleeding
• Organ Damage
• Burns
• Wrongful death
• And more…

Keep in mind, injuries may not show up right after the car accident occurs. It may take days or weeks for symptoms to appear. It’s best to seek medical attention immediately after an accident, as you may have an injury without any symptoms. After seeking medical treatment, call our trusted team of NYC car crash 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 attorneys at The Barnes Firm.

NY Car Accident Laws

• No-fault. New York operates under a no-fault system. You generally turn first to your own insurance for medical expenses and lost earnings, regardless of who was at fault. No-fault covers up to $50,000 in basic economic loss per person, and lost earnings are capped at $2,000 per month for up to three years.
• Deadlines. You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, and the property damage limit is also three years. Claims against government entities, such as the City of New York, require a notice of claim, generally within 90 days, and the deadline to sue is also shorter.
• Shared fault. Fault in a car accident can be shared. For motor vehicle accident lawsuits in New York, a 2026 change to the comparative fault law means an injured person who is found more at fault than the other driver or drivers combined may be barred from recovering. If you are found less at fault, your compensation is generally reduced by your share of fault.
• Liability insurance. Every vehicle registered in New York 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.
• Uninsured motorist coverage. New York also requires auto insurance policies to include uninsured motorist coverage, which protects drivers in an accident with an uninsured or hit-and-run driver.

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, which can lead to a lower payout than you need to recover from your injuries.

At The Barnes Firm, our NYC car accident lawyers know New York State car accident laws and will negotiate with the insurance companies to help you pursue the best result possible for your claim.

Comparative Fault in New York

Depending on the circumstances, parties who may be responsible for your car accident injuries 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 attorneys will investigate your accident and the events leading up to it to identify all liable parties. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 and see what your case is worth.

Filing a Car Accident Claim in NYC

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

New York follows a no-fault insurance system. Here is how it can affect your claim:

1. Immediate Coverage, Regardless of Fault: Your own insurance company covers your medical expenses and lost earnings, up to the no-fault limits, no matter who caused the crash.
2. Limitations on Lawsuits: You can sue the at-fault driver only if your injuries meet the serious injury threshold defined by state law, such as significant disfigurement, a bone fracture, or a permanent or significant limitation in the use of a body part.
3. Basic Personal Injury Protection (PIP): PIP is the primary source of compensation for medical expenses and lost earnings after an accident, up to the policy’s limits.
4. Non-Economic Damages: You can’t recover pain and suffering from your own no-fault insurance. To claim those damages, your injuries must meet the serious injury threshold.
5. Property Damage: No-fault applies only to injuries. The at-fault driver can still be held responsible for vehicle and property damage.
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. Additional coverage. Basic PIP coverage has limits, so some New Yorkers choose additional coverage for higher protection after serious injuries.

While the no-fault system aims to simplify the initial claims process, its details can be complex, especially after a serious injury. An attorney can help you understand your rights.

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.

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

In New York State, you generally have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Claims against government entities, such as the City of New York, require a notice of claim, generally within 90 days, and the deadline to sue is also shorter. No-fault insurance claims also have short filing deadlines, so understanding your timeframe early is important.

How Long Will I Wait for Car Accident Compensation?

The time it takes to receive compensation after a auto 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.

Damages We Can Help Recover After an Auto Accident

The compensation you receive after being injured in a collision 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:

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.

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

The period following an accident can be overwhelming and stressful. After a car crash 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 the accident.
• Contact an Experienced Auto Accident Attorney at The Barnes Firm. Don’t accept early settlement offers from insurance. Instead, call a trusted attorney. From the first phone conversation, through to the final settlement, our attorneys will work hard to get you the best result possible.

A NYC Car Accident Lawyer is Here to Help

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

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

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.