No one expects to be in a car accident, but when it happens, it can leave you feeling shaken and unsure of what to do next. That’s why it’s important to know your rights and have someone you can trust to guide you through the process.
At Aviles Law Firm PLLC, our car accident lawyers in New York City help victims get the compensation they deserve. We take the time to listen, understand your situation, and provide clear, practical advice every step of the way, so you can focus on getting back on your feet.
Call today to get help from our NYC personal injury lawyers.
Fighting for New Yorkers Across Every Borough
After a serious car crash in New York City, you deserve a law firm you can trust to fight for you. Aviles Law Firm PLLC has built a reputation for handling the most complex and high-stakes injury cases with precision, compassion, and strength.
Our lawyers bring more than 100 years of combined experience and a 99.99% success rate to every case. Nearly half of our cases come from referrals by other law firms that trust our team to take on the toughest challenges.
We’ve also received several awards that demonstrate our dedication and achievements, including:
- TopVerdict.com United States Top 10 Bench Award for All Practice Areas for 2021 and 2025
- Attorney and Practice Magazine’s Top 10 Personal Injury Law Firm for 2022 and 2025
- Best of the Best Attorneys, Top 10 Personal Injury Law Firm for 2023 and 2025
- American Institute of Trial Lawyers’ Best Law Firm for 2024 and 2025
- The National Institute of Trial Lawyers’ Best Trial Lawyer in America and 2024 and 2025
As the premier Hispanic-owned personal injury law firm in the history of New York, our team reflects the city’s diversity. Our bilingual staff offers understanding, personalized support, and the cultural insight that helps us connect with our clients like no other firm can.
We prepare every case as if it will go to trial and never back down from powerful insurance companies. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of legal representation, protecting your rights, pursuing justice, and helping you rebuild your life with confidence.
We Fight for the Compensation You Deserve
The effects of a car accident can vary widely, but when catastrophic injuries occur, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, severe burns, or multiple fractures, the impact on your life can be devastating and long-lasting. These types of injuries often require extensive medical care, long-term rehabilitation, and may prevent you from returning to work or enjoying the same quality of life.
If you’ve suffered a severe or catastrophic injury in a crash, you may be entitled to recover compensation for a range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses, including both current and future treatment costs, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity for time missed from work and any long-term impact on your ability to earn an income
- Pain and suffering for the physical pain, emotional trauma, and mental distress caused by the accident
- Loss of enjoyment of life for the ways your injuries affect your ability to engage in daily activities and hobbies
- Home modifications or long-term care if your injuries require special equipment, assistance, or permanent adjustments to your living situation
We understand how life-changing serious injuries can be. Our New York City team works tirelessly to pursue full and fair compensation, so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal challenges ahead.
We Help You Understand Your Potential Avenues for Compensation
Using Your No-Fault (Personal Injury Protection) Benefits
New York follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that after most car accidents, your own insurance company initially covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and certain out-of-pocket costs, no matter who caused the crash.
This coverage, known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP), helps you get medical treatment and short-term financial relief quickly. However, no-fault benefits are limited and do not cover pain and suffering or other non-economic damages.
Holding Another Driver Liable
If your injuries are severe enough to meet New York’s “serious injury threshold” under state law, you can step outside the no-fault system and file a claim against the at-fault driver.
Examples of serious injuries include:
- Significant disfigurement or permanent scarring
- Fractures or broken bones
- Loss of a body part or organ function
- Permanent limitation of use of a body system or limb
- Substantial disability lasting 90 days or more within the first six months following your accident.
Once this threshold is met and you establish that the other driver’s negligence contributed to or caused your accident, you may pursue full compensation through a personal injury claim or lawsuit.
Third-Party Liability Claims
If another driver, company, or even a government entity caused or contributed to your accident, you may file a third-party claim against its insurance provider.
This route allows you to seek compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Future medical care
- Lost earning capacity
Our lawyers will gather evidence, handle insurance negotiations, and fight to recover the compensation you deserve.
Using Your Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If the driver who hit you was uninsured or underinsured, you may still recover compensation through your own insurance policy.
New York requires drivers to carry Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage, which steps in when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance. Our firm ensures that your insurer honors its obligations and pays you the full amount you deserve.
Pursuing a Lawsuit for Full Compensation
If we determine it is the best option to get you the compensation you deserve, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our lawyers have obtained some of the largest verdicts and settlements in New York history, and we prepare every case as if it will go to trial.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident anywhere in New York, you have multiple paths to compensation, but limited time to act. Let our trial lawyers evaluate your case and fight for the recovery you deserve.
What Should I Do if I’m Involved in a Car Accident in New York?
If you’ve been in a car crash, what you do next can make a major difference in your safety and your claim. Follow these steps to protect yourself and your rights:
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- Stay at the Scene: Never leave the site of an accident. Wait for police and emergency services to arrive. Leaving the scene could result in serious legal consequences.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and anyone else involved. If anyone is hurt, or even might be, call 911 immediately for medical assistance.
- Move to Safety (If Possible): If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Call the Police: Always report the accident to the NYPD. A police report provides key documentation for insurance claims and potential legal action. It also helps to avoid a “he said, she said” situation.
- Exchange Information: Share essential details with the other driver(s):
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions and traffic signs
- Injuries
- The overall scene from multiple angles
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you only feel a bit of soreness or discomfort, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries appear hours or days later. Medical documentation is crucial for both your health and your case.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident as soon as possible. Provide only the facts; avoid speculating about what the other driver was doing or admitting fault.
Contact Aviles Law Firm PLLC: Before speaking further with insurers, consult with our experienced New York City car accident lawyers. We can protect your rights, handle communications, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Remember to remain calm and cooperative at the scene of the accident. Don’t admit fault or discuss who is responsible for the accident with the other driver(s).
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Car Accident?
In New York City, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after a car accident is three years from the accident date. If you fail to file your lawsuit before the time expires, you may lose your right to sue. It’s important to note that other deadlines and requirements may apply to your case. We recommend that you consult with our team as soon as possible after your accident to protect your right to recover the compensation you deserve.
Get the Strength and Representation You Deserve
If you’ve been injured in a car accident anywhere in New York City, you don’t have to face the insurance companies alone. They have teams of lawyers protecting their bottom line; you deserve a team that will fight just as hard for you. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on your recovery and your family.
At Aviles Law Firm PLLC, our New York City car accident attorneys have earned a reputation for winning cases other firms don’t feel equipped to take.
Call today for a free consultation. You pay nothing upfront and only pay a percentage of your settlement if we win.
New York City Car Accident FAQs
What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident Case in New York City?
The settlement amount in a car accident in New York City can vary widely depending on various factors, such as the severity of injuries, the cost of medical treatment, loss of income, property damage, and other related expenses.
The strength of the evidence, the degree of liability, and the parties’ insurance coverage can also affect what an accident victim can recover.
Can I Handle a Car Accident Case in New York City Without a Lawyer?
Handling a car accident case in New York City without a lawyer is possible, but it can be challenging and may not be in your best interest.
In a car accident case, there are many factors to consider, such as determining fault, negotiating with insurance companies, and assessing damages. An experienced personal injury lawyer can provide guidance and legal representation to help you navigate these complex issues and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Without a lawyer, you may be disadvantaged in dealing with insurance companies and not fully understand your legal rights and options. Additionally, the legal system in New York City can be complex, and navigating it without legal representation can be overwhelming.
What Are Some of the Common Causes of Car Accidents in New York City?
Car accidents are unfortunately common in New York City, driven by factors such as high population density, heavy traffic, reckless driving, unpredictable weather, and aging infrastructure. With streets crowded by taxis, buses, and delivery trucks, even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to a serious collision.
There are several common causes of car accidents in New York City, including:
- Distracted driving: Drivers using their phones, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities are more likely to cause an accident.
- Speeding: Many drivers in New York City exceed the speed limit, which can increase the likelihood of an accident.
- Reckless driving: Drivers who ignore traffic signals, weave in and out of lanes, or engage in other dangerous behaviors can cause accidents.
- Intoxication: Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol are more likely to cause accidents.
- Poor road conditions: New York City’s roads can be challenging to navigate, with potholes, uneven surfaces, and construction zones contributing to accidents.
- Weather conditions: Rain, snow, and fog can make it more difficult for drivers to see and control their vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Vehicle malfunctions: Mechanical issues with a vehicle, such as faulty brakes or steering, can cause or contribute to accidents.
- Pedestrian and cyclist negligence: Pedestrians and cyclists who fail to follow traffic rules and signals can also contribute to car accidents.
