Top New York City Car Accident Attorneys

Are You in Need of a New York City Car Accident Attorney?

The New York car accident attorneys at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP level the playing field against powerful insurers in NYC. While no amount of money can undo the trauma of a car crash, a successful car accident claim or lawsuit can significantly ease your financial burdens and compensate you for your pain and suffering.

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Recent Case Results

^$8.3 Million New York State Record-Setting Verdict for Single Level Cervical Discectomy

^$6.2 Million Intersection Accident

^$5.5 Million New York Motor Vehicle Accident

^$4.5 Million Two Passengers Injured in Rear-end Accident

View More Case Results

You may need a car accident attorney if:

• You suffered serious injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or spinal injuries
• You missed time at work due to your injuries
• You’re overwhelmed by medical bills, rehab costs, or transportation expenses
• The insurance company is pressuring you to settle quickly
• The other driver was uninsured or underinsured
• You suspect the other driver was texting, intoxicated, or otherwise negligent

"The firm handled my case very professional from the start to finish. They updated me thru-out the case, held meetings with me, answered all my questions and concerns..."
- A.D. from Google

Why Choose Us Over Other Top New York City Car Accident Attorneys?

Here’s why injured drivers choose Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP:

• Avvo Rated Superb
• Over $2 billion recovered for injured New Yorkers
• More than 50 years representing car crash victims in NYC
• Named among the Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report
• A number of WRSMH attorneys belong to the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
• Recognized by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys™ as one of the Top 10 Law Firms in NYC for Client Satisfaction
• Numerous WRSMH attorneys are listed by Super Lawyers based on peer reviews and independent research

Notable Car Accident Injury Cases

• $8.326 Million - Long Island Expressway Accident
• $6.2 Million - Intersection Accident
• $4.5 Million for Two Victims in Rear-End Accident

Serious Crash? Serious Representation Starts Here

When negligence causes serious injuries, you need attorneys who prepare every case as if it’s going before a jury.

Contact WRSMH at (212) 986-7353 and let our legal team fight for your future.

Do You Have a Legitimate Car Accident Case?

If your accident was caused by someone else’s negligence and you suffered physical or financial harm as a result, you may have a strong personal injury claim.

Common causes of car accident cases we handle include:

• Distracted driving (texting, eating, adjusting navigation)
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Drunk or impaired driving
• Failure to yield or running red lights
• Unsafe lane changes
• Rear-end collisions
• Defective auto parts or vehicle malfunctions
• Roadway hazards or poor signage

To bring a successful car accident claim, we must prove four essential elements:

1. Duty of Care – The at-fault driver had a legal obligation to drive safely.
2. Breach of Duty – They failed in that duty by driving negligently or unlawfully.
3. Causation – That failure directly caused the accident.
4. Damages – You suffered real harm—physical, financial, or emotional.

What Damages Can I Recover After a New York City Car Accident?

Our tenacious attorneys can help you pursue both economic and non-economic damages from an at-fault insurance company. Economic damages will take into account all of the financial losses you have suffered as a result of your injury, from your medical bills to the wages you lost while out of work. In contrast, non-economic damages can involve all of your personal damages, from emotional trauma to physical pain.

With the right attorney, you can recover financial compensation for the following damages after a car accident:

• Current medical bills (including ambulance and emergency room fees)
• Future medical bills
• Property damage and loss
• Pain and suffering
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
• Lost wages
• Loss of career or earning capacity
• Wrongful death damages if you lost a loved one

Damages will ultimately come down to the type of injury you have suffered and the available liability policies. Brain injuries, for example, can cause a range of both physical and psychological injuries, such as mood swings and PTSD. However, even a spinal cord injury, while it may not affect your brain, can lead to emotional issues as you contend with your disability. To ensure you receive every cent owed to you after a collision, you will need an attorney who can thoroughly review your case and collect all available evidence to support your claim.

What Evidence Is Collected for a NYC Car Accident Claim?

To recover maximum compensation, it is essential to prove that another party’s negligence caused your injuries.

Strong evidence is the foundation of a successful claim. Some evidence is collected immediately after the accident, while other pieces require a more in-depth investigation and expert analysis. Below are the most common types of evidence used in New York City car accident cases, and what you should know about each:

Witness Testimony

Witnesses can provide an unbiased account of how the accident occurred, which is especially important when fault is disputed.

• What is considered a witness testimony? Witness testimony could include statements from people who witnessed the crash, such as pedestrians, other drivers, or nearby workers.
• What should I collect from a witness?
  • If it is safe to do so, try to collect:
    • Full name
    • Phone number
    • Email address (if possible)
    • A brief description of what they saw

  You don’t need a formal written statement at the scene. A simple question like “Can you briefly tell me what you saw?” and taking notes on your phone can be very helpful. If they are willing, you can also record a short video or audio statement with their permission.

• What should a witness’s testimony include?

  Ideally, a witness statement should clearly explain where the individual was positioned at the time of the accident and what they were able to see from that vantage point. It should include what they observed leading up to the crash, such as a driver speeding, failing to yield, or running a red light, as well as a description of the moment of impact itself. The witness can also provide valuable insight into what happened immediately afterward, including driver behavior, statements made at the scene, or any visible injuries. This level of detail helps create a more complete and credible account of how the accident occurred.

• How we use this information: Our attorneys can later follow up with the witness to obtain a formal written or sworn statement, which can be used in negotiations or in court to support your claim.

Photos of the Scene

Photographic evidence helps document exactly what happened and preserves details that may change quickly—especially in a fast-moving environment like New York City.

• What photos will be helpful in my case?

  If you are physically able, try to take a variety of photos, including:

  • All vehicles involved – Capture damage from multiple angles (front, rear, sides) and include license plates
  • Wide shots of the scene – Show the overall layout, including intersections, traffic lanes, and positioning of vehicles
  • Road conditions – Skid marks, debris, potholes, wet or icy surfaces, and construction zones
  • Traffic controls – Traffic lights, stop signs, crosswalks, and any obstructed signage
  • Surrounding area – Nearby buildings, businesses, or cameras that may have captured the accident
  • Visible injuries – Cuts, bruises, or other physical injuries (both immediately and in the days following)
  • Weather and lighting conditions – Rain, fog, darkness, or glare that may have contributed to the crash

  Taking both close-up and wide-angle shots helps create a more complete picture of what happened.

• Are there photos that can’t be used in court?
  Most photos can be used as evidence if they are relevant and accurately depict the accident scene. However, certain images may be challenged or excluded if their reliability is in question. For example, photos altered with filters or enhancements can raise concerns about accuracy, while images taken long after the accident may not accurately reflect the original conditions. Photos that lack proper context, such as close-ups that do not show where or how the damage occurred, can also be less persuasive. Additionally, images obtained illegally, such as by trespassing, may not be admissible.
  
  Ultimately, authenticity is key. Photos that are clear, unedited, and taken as close in time to the accident as possible tend to be the most credible and effective in supporting a car accident claim.
• How we use this information:
  Our attorneys use these images, along with other evidence, to reconstruct the accident, demonstrate liability, and support the severity of your damages during settlement negotiations or at trial.

Police Reports

A police report is often one of the most important pieces of documentation in a New York car accident case.

• Why is a police report important?
  A police report is an official record created by responding NYPD officers that documents key details about the crash, including the parties involved, witness information, and sometimes an initial assessment of fault. It provides an objective foundation for your claim.
• What should you do after the accident?
  Always call the police after a car accident in New York City and request a copy of the report as soon as it becomes available. Make sure the information recorded is accurate.
• How do we use a police report in your case?
  While not always the final word on liability, a police report serves as a strong starting point for building your case and can support negotiations with insurance companies.

Insurance Company Reports

Insurance documentation plays a central role in both no-fault claims and liability disputes.

• Why are insurance reports important?
  These reports include records of your claim, communications with adjusters, coverage details, and the insurer’s evaluation of the accident. They can significantly impact how much compensation is offered.
• What should you do when dealing with insurance companies?
  Report the accident promptly, but avoid giving recorded statements or accepting settlements without speaking to an attorney first.
• How do we use insurance reports in your case?
  We manage all communications with insurance companies, use these records to support your claim, and push back against low settlement offers.

Medical Bills and Records

Medical evidence directly connects your injuries to the accident and determines the value of your claim.

• Why are medical records critical to your claim?
  Medical documentation shows the extent of your injuries, the treatment you received, and how the accident has impacted your health and daily life
• What should you do to protect your medical evidence?
  Seek medical attention immediately after the accident, follow all treatment recommendations, and keep copies of all records and bills.
• How do we use medical records in your case?
  We use this evidence to prove the severity of your injuries and calculate both current and future medical expenses as part of your compensation

Video Evidence

In a city like New York, video footage is often available and can be incredibly powerful.

• Why is video evidence so valuable in a car accident case?
  Video footage from traffic cameras, businesses, or dashcams can provide a clear and unbiased view of how the accident occurred.
• What should you do to preserve video evidence?
  Act quickly, as footage is often deleted within days. Let your attorney know immediately so steps can be taken to secure it.
• How do we use video evidence in your case?
  Video can serve as compelling proof of fault and may significantly strengthen your claim during negotiations or at trial.

Accident Reconstruction

In more complex or high-value cases, expert analysis may be necessary to fully understand the crash.

• What is accident reconstruction and why is it important?
  Accident reconstruction involves experts analyzing the crash using physics, engineering, and available evidence to determine exactly how it happened.
• What should you do if reconstruction is needed?
  Provide as much detail as possible about the accident so experts have the information they need to conduct a thorough analysis.
• How do we use accident reconstruction in your case?
  These expert findings can clearly demonstrate fault, especially in disputed cases, and can be powerful evidence in court.

While some evidence is available immediately after a crash, other critical elements require prompt legal action to be preserved. New York also imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, so it is important to begin gathering evidence as soon as possible.

Our attorneys move quickly to secure, analyze, and present the strongest possible evidence—giving you the best opportunity to recover full and fair compensation after a New York City car accident.

How a New York City Car Accident Attorney Can Help

A serious car accident in New York City can leave victims facing overwhelming medical bills, lost income, and long-term physical and emotional challenges. Working with an experienced New York City car accident attorney ensures that your rights are protected and that you have a strong advocate pursuing the compensation you deserve.

Our attorneys bring decades of experience handling complex motor vehicle accident cases across NYC. We understand the unique challenges of navigating claims in a dense urban environment where traffic congestion, rideshare vehicles, taxis, and commercial trucks are all factors.

When you hire Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we can:

• Conduct a thorough investigation – We can gather police reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction evidence to build a compelling case.
• Identify all liable parties – In New York City accidents, multiple parties may be responsible, including negligent drivers, employers, vehicle manufacturers, or municipal entities.
• Handle insurance companies – Insurers often attempt to minimize payouts. We manage all communications and negotiate aggressively to secure fair compensation.
• Document your damages – Our legal team can work closely with medical professionals and financial experts to accurately calculate the full extent of your injuries, including future care needs.
• Litigate when necessary – While many claims settle, we want to prepare every case as if it will go to trial, giving you leverage and ensuring you are ready if litigation becomes necessary.

With over 50 years of experience and more than $2 billion recovered for clients, our NYC car accident lawyers are committed to delivering results while treating every client with compassion and respect.

Experienced. Relentless. Results-Driven. Call WRSMH Now

Don’t let insurance companies decide what your case is worth. Call (212) 986-7353 now for a free consultation.

Types of Automobile Collisions That Cause Serious Injuries

Any motor vehicle crash can cause serious injuries to drivers and passengers. Pedestrians, bikers, and motorcyclists are also at risk of catastrophic trauma. Within New York City, the most serious and common types of accidents are:

• Head-On Collisions: The force of two moving vehicles colliding head-on often produces a terrific impact, since both vehicles contribute to it. The sheer force of the collision can cause a wide range of injuries - head trauma, neck injuries, spinal cord injury, internal injuries, fractures, and torn ligaments in the lower extremities.
• Side-Impact (T-Bone) Collisions: Due to the close proximity of a driver or passenger to the point of impact, broadside collisions often lead to catastrophic injuries. These can include serious damage to internal organs, shoulder injuries, spinal cord damage, and hip fractures.
• Rollover Accidents: In rollovers, vehicle roofs may be crushed or collapse on the driver and passengers, leading to head trauma and traumatic brain injury. There may also be damage to the spine, which can lead to permanent paralysis, either quadriplegia or paraplegia. When seat belts fail to tighten in a rollover, the vehicle occupants may be severely shaken and jolted as the vehicle rolls, almost always leading to whiplash.
• Rear-end Collisions: Most people will think of a simple fender-bender when they imagine a rear-end crash, but these accidents can occur at high speeds and involve multiple catastrophic injuries. Drivers and occupants can be thrown against the steering column or collide with vehicles in front of them, leading to multiple points of impact. While in most cases the oncoming driver is at fault, drivers in front of them could also be to blame if they came to a sudden stop or back-up on a busy street.

What’s the Legal Process for a Car Accident Case?

Understanding the legal process after a car accident in New York City can help you feel more confident about pursuing a claim. While every case is unique, most NYC car accident claims follow a structured process:

1. Initial Consultation

Your case begins with a free consultation with an experienced New York City car accident attorney. During this meeting, we take the time to understand exactly what happened, review any documentation you already have, and assess the strength of your potential claim.

We will explain your legal rights under New York law, discuss possible sources of compensation, and outline what you can expect moving forward. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and understand how our firm approaches car accident cases. By the end of the consultation, you will have a clear picture of your legal options and next steps, without any obligation to move forward.

2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Building a strong case requires a detailed and strategic investigation. Our attorneys gather and preserve key evidence before it is lost or altered.

This process may include obtaining police accident reports, securing traffic camera or surveillance footage in NYC, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing medical records. In more complex cases, we may work with accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, and other professionals to fully understand how the crash occurred and the extent of your injuries.

This phase is critical in proving liability and ensuring compliance with New York’s comparative negligence rules, which can impact how compensation is awarded.

3. Filing Insurance Claims and No-Fault Benefits

New York operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means your own insurance policy, through Personal Injury Protection (PIP), typically covers initial medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.

However, strict deadlines apply. For example, no-fault benefits must generally be filed within 30 days of the accident. Our attorneys look to ensure all paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time, helping you avoid costly delays or denials.

We can also handle communication with insurance companies, protecting you from tactics designed to minimize or deny your claim.

4. Determining Eligibility for a Lawsuit

Not all car accident cases in New York qualify for a personal injury lawsuit. To step outside the no-fault system, your injuries must meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold, which may include conditions such as fractures, significant disfigurement, permanent limitations, or substantial disability.

Our legal team carefully reviews your medical records and may consult with healthcare professionals to determine whether your case meets this threshold. If it does, we can pursue additional compensation beyond no-fault benefits, including damages for pain and suffering and long-term impacts on your quality of life.

5. Negotiation and Settlement Discussions

Once we have a clear understanding of liability and the full extent of your damages, we begin negotiating with insurance companies and opposing counsel.

This can include presenting a comprehensive demand package that outlines your injuries, medical treatment, lost income, and future needs. Because we prepare every case as if it will go to trial, insurers recognize that we are ready to litigate if necessary, often resulting in stronger settlement offers.

Our goal is to resolve your case efficiently while ensuring you receive fair and full compensation.

6. Litigation and Trial (If Necessary)

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Filing a lawsuit begins the litigation phase, which may include discovery (exchange of evidence), depositions, and pre-trial motions.

Our attorneys work closely with expert witnesses, including medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists, to build a compelling case. We meticulously prepare every detail to present a strong argument before a judge or jury.

While many cases settle before trial, having a legal team with proven courtroom experience is essential to protecting your interests.

7. Resolution and Compensation

The final stage of your case is resolution, either through a negotiated settlement or a trial verdict. At this point, compensation is secured for your damages, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering.

Our team ensures that all financial aspects are handled properly, including resolving any liens or outstanding medical bills, so you receive the maximum recovery possible.

Throughout the entire process, our focus remains on helping you move forward after a serious car accident with the financial support and peace of mind you deserve.

Different Types of Car Accident Injuries

Vehicle accident injuries can be broken down into two categories: impact injuries and penetration injuries.

Impact Injuries

Penetration Injuries

What Is the Statute of Limitations in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the crash. However, there are some important exceptions:

• Wrongful death claims: Must be filed within two years of the victim’s passing
• Claims against a government agency: You must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days, and then file your lawsuit within one year and 90 days

It’s important to act quickly. The sooner you contact a New York City personal injury attorney, the sooner we can gather time-sensitive evidence, speak with witnesses, and protect your right to full compensation.

Get a Free Consultation With One of NYC’s Leading Law Firms

We give your case the attention it deserves and will aggressively pursue the compensation you need. Call (212) 986-7353 to learn more today.

Some of Our Car Accident Case Results

$8.326 Million Verdict - Personal Injuries Sustained as a Result of a Motor Vehicle Accident

A Suffolk County jury awarded an $8.3 million verdict to our client who, on October 2, 2014, was attempting to make a left turn onto the westbound service road of the Long Island Expressway when her vehicle was struck by a commercial van traveling in the opposite direction.

$6.2 Million Recovery for New York Intersection Accident

The firm was able to obtain a jury verdict in the amount of $6.2 million on behalf of our client, a 60-year-old Brooklyn woman involved in a motor vehicle accident. After a trial, the jury unanimously found the defendant 100% responsible for the accident.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

A tremendous result for my father- Samantha Feliz (5-Star Google Review)

Attorney Steve Wagner achieved a tremendous result for my father. He had a car crash where his car was struck from behind. He sustained serious back injuries, requiring a major back surgery where they put metal in his back. Attorney Ashley Jacoby did a great job working on the case before Steve took the case to trial. To prepare for trial, Steve spent hours with my dad and entire family. He even came to the apartment multiple times. Steve selected a jury and then managed to get the entire defense thrown out! The defense had no choice but to settle right before opening statements for more than we had hoped for. Steve worked really, really hard to help us win. But maybe, more importantly, he’s really passionate, and it’s clear he cares deeply about our family and our future.

Refreshing honesty and a professional unmatched by any attorney- Gary G (5-Star Google Review)

I suffered multiple injuries when a truck driver failed to obey a traffic stop sign on a local road here in Staten Island, NY, almost two years ago, and proceeded to strike my prized Mustang GT in a head-on collision destroying the car and sending me to the hospital. Shortly after starting my recovery, I received what turned out to be a life-changing recommendation to the injury law firm of Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, here in NYC. My personal attorney, Konstantin Burshteyn, proceeded to represent me with both a refreshing honesty and a professional unmatched by any attorney I've come to know or work with during my life experiences! His candor and ability to present all the pertinent information to me in terms which were easy to understand was greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend not only the firm of Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, but Konstantin Burshteyn, in particular, to consider as your attorneys!

Other Locations We Serve in New York

• Bronx
• Brooklyn
• Manhattan
• Queens
• Staten Island

Frequently Asked Questions About NYC Auto Accidents

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for my accident?

Yes. New York is a comparative negligence state, meaning that the court will decide what degree of fault each party has for the accident and apply that percentage to the damages awarded.

Should I speak with the other driver's insurance company?

Not until you've consulted your own attorney. Even then, it’s better to let your own attorney communicate with the other party's insurer. Insurance adjusters may take a statement you've made, twist it around, and use it against you.

Should I accept the insurance company's offer?

Not until you've consulted your lawyer. Insurance companies will always try to lowball you and offer you a settlement that is far less than you deserve. An experienced auto accident attorney can help you determine how much you should ask for.

Do I really need a lawyer after a car accident in New York City?

Yes. If you’ve suffered serious injuries, missed time at work, or are facing long-term medical care, having a lawyer ensures your rights are protected. Insurance companies often try to settle for far less than you deserve. Our firm builds every case for trial, which means we’re always prepared to fight for full compensation.

How much does it cost to hire WRSMH for a car accident case?

There’s no upfront cost. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if we win your case. Your consultation is free, and we cover all case-related expenses until there’s a resolution.

What types of compensation can I recover after a car accident?

Depending on your case, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, future treatment, pain and suffering, emotional distress, permanent disability, and more. We fight for the full value of your claim, not just what the insurance company offers.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This preparation often leads to better settlement offers. If going to trial is necessary to protect your interests, our team is more than ready.

Meet Our Attorneys

Phil Russotti

Phil Russotti is a senior partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, and one of New York’s premier personal injury trial attorneys. With a deep commitment to justice and strategic trial preparation, he has secured numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in cases involving medical malpractice, construction accidents, police shootings and construction injuries.

Clifford H. Shapiro

Clifford H. Shapiro is a partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP. Since joining the firm in 1986, he has handled numerous cases involving motor vehicle collisions, construction accidents, and premises liability. Cliff is known for his aggressive negotiation strategies and commitment to achieving full compensation for his clients. He plays a key role in settlement coordination and pre-trial litigation.

Bryce Moses

Bryce Moses is a partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, and a skilled trial attorney with a track record of winning high-value verdicts and settlements. Bryce brings sharp litigation instincts to complex personal injury cases, including construction accidents, premises liability, and vehicle collisions. He is known for his courtroom presence, strategic thinking, and client-focused approach.

Ken Halperin

Kenneth J. Halperin is a partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP. He focuses on construction accidents, premises liability, and motor vehicle collisions, and has secured numerous multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts for his clients. He is a seasoned negotiator and litigator committed to protecting injured New Yorkers.

Additional Information

• New York’s No-Fault Car Accident Law: What It Means for Injured Drivers
• NYC Hit-and-Run Accidents: What Victims Need to Know in 2025
• Uber Accident While Visiting NYC? Know Your Legal Rights
• What to Do After a Car Accident in NYC
• New York State Department of Transportation
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - NHTSA
• Transportation Safety - CDC