New York Car Accidents Attorney

Get Legal Representation from the Top Car Accident Attorneys in New York at Shalom Law

Car accidents are a frequent occurrence in New York City and Long Island, often leading to severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardships. At Shalom Law, we specialize in representing individuals who have been injured in automobile accidents due to the negligence of others. Our experienced car accident attorneys in New York are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal system and secure the compensation you deserve. Serving clients in Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County, and parts of Upstate New York, Shalom Law is here to support you every step of the way.

Facts and Statistics

In 2022, there were 100,508 total car accidents over the course of the year, 37,848 of which involved an injury or fatality. Car accidents often occur due to factors such as driver negligence, poor road conditions, and mechanical failures. Understanding these statistics highlights the importance of legal representation for injured victims.

• High Incidence Rates: Car accidents are frequent in New York and Long Island, with hundreds of thousands of incidents reported annually. The high volume of traffic and densely populated areas contribute to these statistics.
• Severe Injuries: Many car accidents result in serious injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and spinal injuries. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Fatalities: Tragically, some car accidents lead to fatalities, underscoring the need for improved safety measures and legal advocacy.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Negligence

• Distracted Driving: Many accidents occur because drivers are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted while driving. Distracted driving significantly reduces a driver’s reaction time and awareness of their surroundings.
• Distracted Pedestrians: Like drivers, many pedestrians may be distracted texting, on a phone call or simply not paying attention to traffic, which can lead to accidents, often resulting in serious injuries for both the pedestrian and driver.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden obstacles, making accidents more likely and more severe. High-speed collisions often result in catastrophic injuries.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment and reaction times, contributing to accidents. Drunk drivers pose a serious risk to all road users.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, failing to signal, and ignoring traffic signals can lead to serious accidents.

Poor Road Conditions

• Potholes: Large potholes can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, leading to accidents. Potholes are common in urban areas and can be especially hazardous.
• Uneven Pavement: Irregularities in the road surface can be dangerous for vehicles, leading to loss of control and collisions.
• Debris on the Road: Objects such as fallen branches, loose gravel, and other debris can create hazardous driving conditions, increasing the risk of accidents.

Poor Weather Conditions

• Slippery Roads: Roads can become very slippery in heavy rain or winter weather, causing loss of control and potential accidents.
• Low Visbility: Heavy rain or snow can cause low visibility on the road which can create life threatening siutations on the road.

Mechanical Failures

• Brake Failures: Malfunctioning brakes can prevent a driver from stopping in time, leading to collisions.
• Tire Blowouts: Sudden tire blowouts can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle which can lead to disaster.
• Engine Problems: Mechanical issues with the engine can lead to breakdowns and accidents.

Common Types of Car Accidents in New York

• Rear-End Collisions: Rear-end collisions occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These accidents are often caused by tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops. They can result in whiplash, back injuries, and other serious conditions.
• Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone): Side-impact collisions, or T-bone accidents, happen when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. These accidents commonly occur at intersections and can cause severe injuries to the occupants of the impacted vehicle.
• Head-On Collisions: Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of car accidents, occurring when two vehicles collide front-to-front. These accidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities due to the high impact forces involved.
• Rollover Accidents: Rollover accidents happen when a vehicle flips onto its side or roof. These accidents are more common with high-profile vehicles like SUVs and trucks and can lead to significant injuries and fatalities.
• Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Multi-vehicle pileups involve multiple cars and typically occur on highways or in adverse weather conditions. These accidents can be complex, with numerous parties potentially at fault, and often result in extensive injuries and property damage.
• Hit and Run Accidents: Hit and run accidents occur when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing contact information or assisting the injured parties. These accidents can complicate the process of seeking compensation and holding the responsible party accountable.
• Uber and Lyft Accidents: Accidents involving rideshare vehicles like Uber and Lyft can present unique legal challenges. Determining liability can be complex, involving the driver, the rideshare company, and other involved parties. These accidents often require specialized legal expertise to navigate insurance claims and compensation.

Common Car Accidents Injuries

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Whiplash: A neck injury caused by sudden movement of the head, commonly occurring in rear-end collisions.
• Fractures: Broken bones are common in high-impact crashes and can range from minor fractures to severe breaks requiring surgery.
• Head Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can occur if the head strikes an object or is subjected to a sudden jolt.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs can occur from the impact of a crash, often requiring emergency surgery.
• Lacerations and Bruises: Cuts and bruises from broken glass, debris, or impact with the interior of the vehicle are common and can vary in severity.

Steps to Take During and After a Car Accident

Ensure Safety

• Move to a Safe Location: If possible, move your vehicle out of the traffic flow to avoid further collisions.
• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others involved in the automobile accident for injuries and call 911 for immediate medical assistance.

Document the Scene

• Take Photos: If possible, photograph the car accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. These photos can be crucial evidence in your case.
• Gather Contact Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and addresses of witnesses and the other party involved in the accident. Witness statements can support your case.

Report the Accident

• File a Police Report: Contact the police to file an official report. This report will be a critical document in your personal injury claim.

Seek Medical Attention

• Get a Medical Evaluation: Even if your injuries seem minor or walked away unscathed, it is important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can have long-term consequences. 

Contact a New York Car Accident Attorney

• Reach Out to Shalom Law: Contact Shalom Law for a free consultation to discuss your case with our experienced car accident attorneys. We will guide you through the legal process, answer any questions you may have,  and help you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.

How Shalom Law Can Help You with Your Car Accident

At Shalom Law, our dedicated car accident attorneys in New York have extensive experience handling complex personal injury cases. We will:

Investigate the Accident

• Gather Evidence: We’ll collect and preserve all evidence related to your accident, including photos, videos, and witness statements. Thorough evidence is crucial for building a strong case.
• Interview Witnesses: Our team will conduct detailed interviews with any witnesses that may have been on the scene to build a strong case on your behalf. Witnesses can provide valuable insights and corroborate your account of the accident.
• Review Police Reports: We’ll carefully examine police reports to identify any inconsistencies or errors that could impact your case. A detailed review of official reports helps ensure that all relevant information is considered.

Handle Insurance Claims

• Communicate with Insurance Companies: We handle all communications with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair treatment and maximum compensation. Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging as they will do everything in their legal power to minimize payouts, but we have the expertise to advocate on your behalf.
• Negotiate Settlements: Our car accident attorneys are skilled negotiators who strive to settle your case out of court, securing the best possible outcome for you. Effective negotiation can expedite the resolution of your case and maximize your compensation.

Representation in Court

• Prepare for Trial: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our automobile accident attorneys are experienced litigators who will vigorously represent your interests.
• Advocate for You: We will present a compelling case on your behalf in court, using the evidence we have gathered to support your claims and seek the maximum compensation available.

Provide Personalized Support

• Tailored Legal Guidance: We offer compassionate, personalized legal guidance tailored to your unique situation and needs. Personalized attention and care ensures that your specific concerns and goals are addressed.
• Regular Updates: We keep you informed about the progress of your case and answer any questions you may have throughout the process. Clear communication helps you stay informed and confident in the legal process.

By choosing Shalom Law, you are choosing a firm committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Visit our Personal Injury Law page for more information on how we can assist you.

Car Accident FAQ