Proven Record of Success
New York City Car Accident Attorneys for Victims
New York City is one of the busiest driving environments in the country. With constant congestion, aggressive traffic patterns, and distracted drivers, car accidents happen every day across the five boroughs. When a crash occurs, victims may face serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about how to move forward. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, working with an experienced legal team can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
At Restivo & Murphy LLP, we have more than 60 years of combined experience representing clients throughout New York City, Long Island, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. Our New York City car accident attorneys handle a wide range of motor vehicle accident cases, with a strong focus on serious injury, catastrophic injury, and fatal crash claims.
Car accidents often involve significant force, even at lower speeds. Drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians can all suffer serious harm when vehicles collide. Our attorneys focus on cases involving injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and crush injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Wrongful death
After a car accident, injured individuals may require emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, and long-term rehabilitation. Recovery can involve months or years of physical therapy, follow-up treatment, and lifestyle adjustments. In New York County, access to specialized trauma centers is critical, but navigating medical care and insurance requirements can be overwhelming. Our firm helps clients understand the full impact of their injuries so they can plan for both immediate treatment and long-term needs.
A serious car accident can result in ongoing medical expenses, lost income, and reduced earning capacity. At Restivo & Murphy LLP, we focus on fully documenting the long-term costs our clients face. We present these damages clearly and effectively so insurance companies and juries understand the true impact of the crash.
Identifying Common Causes of Car Accidents
Many car accidents in New York County are preventable. Common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, navigation apps, and in-vehicle distractions often take drivers’ attention off the road, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Excessive speed, tailgating, and unsafe lane changes are frequent factors in NYC crashes, especially on highways and major arterials.
- Failure to Yield or Obey Traffic Signals: Ignoring stop signs, red lights, or right-of-way rules leads to serious intersection and turning accidents.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug use significantly reduce reaction time and judgment, placing everyone on the road at risk.
- Weather and Road Conditions: Snow, ice, rain, potholes, and poorly maintained roadways contribute to loss-of-control accidents throughout the city.
Car accidents often occur at busy intersections, highways, bridges, and areas with heavy commuter traffic. Locations near transit hubs, construction zones, and commercial corridors see higher crash rates due to congestion and frequent lane changes. While traffic safety initiatives continue across New York City, drivers must remain vigilant to reduce the risk of serious accidents.
Call our Garden City office at or contact us online. We provide free consultations, and we work on contingency, so you will not pay attorney fees unless your case succeeds.
What To Do After a Car Accident
Taking the right steps after a car accident in New York County can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim. Move to a safe location if possible and call emergency services immediately. Seeking medical attention creates essential documentation of your injuries. Exchange information with the other driver and collect contact details from witnesses at the scene.
Photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and surrounding areas before conditions change. In New York County, police usually respond and prepare an official accident report, which plays a key role in insurance and legal proceedings. If traffic or surveillance cameras may have captured the crash, act quickly to request this footage, as it may only be retained for a limited time.
How Fault & Liability Are Determined in New York County
New York follows a comparative negligence system, meaning more than one party may share responsibility for a car accident. Fault is determined by examining traffic laws, driver behavior, vehicle damage, and witness statements. Even if you are partially at fault, you may still recover compensation, with any award reduced based on your percentage of responsibility.
Car accident cases in New York County often involve complex factors such as construction zones, rideshare vehicles, commercial trucks, or government-owned vehicles. Claims involving city buses or municipal vehicles may require compliance with additional legal rules. The team at Restivo & Murphy LLP draws on extensive experience to help clients navigate these issues and pursue fair outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to an initial consultation about a car accident?
Bring any police reports, photographs from the scene, medical records, and insurance information related to the accident. If you have repair estimates, medical bills, or correspondence from insurance companies, include those as well. These materials help your attorney evaluate liability, damages, and next steps more accurately.
How long does it take to resolve a car accident claim in New York County?
The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries, the complexity of the case, and whether the claim settles or goes to trial. Some cases resolve within several months, while others may take a year or longer. Factors such as medical treatment duration and insurance negotiations can affect how quickly a case moves forward.
Can I recover compensation if I was partly at fault for the accident?
Yes. New York follows a comparative negligence system, which allows injured individuals to seek compensation even if they share some responsibility. Any recovery is reduced based on your percentage of fault. An attorney can help determine how fault is assessed and how it may impact your claim.
Why Pursuing Legal Action Is Essential After a Car Accident
New York’s no-fault insurance system provides initial coverage for medical expenses and lost wages, but benefits are capped at $50,000. Serious injuries often exceed these limits. If your injuries meet the legal threshold, you may pursue additional compensation through a claim against the at-fault driver.
Insurance companies frequently challenge injury severity or attempt to shift blame. Acting quickly, documenting injuries, and preserving evidence strengthens your position. Having experienced legal representation helps ensure your claim is taken seriously and fairly evaluated.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in New York
New York law generally allows three years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline may result in losing your right to seek compensation.
When a government entity is involved, such as a city-owned vehicle or transit authority, shorter deadlines apply. In these cases, a Notice of Claim may be required within 90 days. Early action helps preserve evidence, meet legal deadlines, and protect your rights throughout New York County.
Client Testimonials
"Highly recommend their firm to family and friends"
Todd Restivo and his firm handled my case with the utmost professionalism at all times. Todd was extremely knowledgeable about every aspect of my case and always took the time to speak with me at great lengths to fully answer any and all questions and concerns. His office staff was friendly and returned emails and calls promptly to help me navigate the process clearly. I felt confident with Restivo & Murphy representing me and highly recommend their firm to family and friends.
– Robert H.
"I've got positive results"
I was injured in a construction accident back in 2013. I switched from another firm over to Restivo and Murphy because the firm I was using was not handling my case properly.Todd personally handled my case and kept me informed every step of the way. We were able to settle the case at mediation. I would highly recommend Restivo and Murphy to anyone seeking positive results for their case.
– Brian D