New York City Car Accident Lawyers Proving Fault And Securing Compensation
Last updated on July 17, 2026
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 39,254 people were killed and an estimated 2.42 million people were injured in motor vehicle traffic crashes across the United States in 2024. In New York, 1,101 people died in traffic crashes that year, including 300 deaths involving alcohol-impaired driving.
Due to New York City’s large, dense population, congested streets and constant mix of cars, taxis, rideshare vehicles, buses, trucks, cyclists and pedestrians, serious crashes remain a major concern for drivers, passengers and others on the road.
Common Causes Of Car Accidents
Causes of New York car accidents range from driver negligence to road construction to products liability. Negligent driving includes running red lights and stop signs, speeding, reckless lane changes, tailgating, driver fatigue, drunk driving, and failing to exercise caution in adverse weather conditions.
Driver distraction is another cause of traffic crashes. Distractions for drivers can include:
- Rubbernecking
- Changing the radio
- Using a cellphone
- Text messaging
Road construction sites, as well as uneven slopes and slants from poor street maintenance, can also create dangers for drivers.
Product liability is often the actual cause of a car crash. Defective seat belts and seat backs, airbag failures, electronic malfunctions, sudden acceleration, and defective tires can cause accidents.
At Rich & Rich, P.C., one of our skilled New York automobile accident lawyers will determine whether someone else’s negligence caused your car crash and will hold the responsible parties accountable for your damages.
Proving Fault And Increasing Case Value
Finding the cause of a crash is not only about explaining what happened. It can also affect the value of your claim. A New York City car accident lawyer may look for proof that the other driver was speeding, texting, following too closely, driving drunk, ignoring traffic signals or making an unsafe lane change.
That proof can help show why the crash happened and why the other driver bears responsibility. Police reports, traffic camera footage, dashcam video, vehicle damage, medical records, cellphone records and witness statements may all matter. In a serious crash, accident reconstruction may also help connect the impact to your injuries.
The stronger the proof of fault is, the harder it may be for an insurance company to blame you or downplay your injuries. A New York auto accident attorney can also look at how the crash changed your daily life, work, health and long-term treatment needs. These facts may support a claim for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses allowed by law.
Understanding No-Fault Insurance And Injury Claims
New York no-fault insurance can pay certain basic losses after a crash, no matter who caused the accident. These benefits may include medical bills and part of your lost wages, subject to legal limits. However, no-fault does not always cover the full financial impact of a serious injury.
A lawsuit may be available when your economic losses exceed no-fault benefits or when your injury meets New York’s serious injury standard. This is why proving the cause of the crash still matters. A Manhattan car accident lawyer can use evidence of distracted driving, speeding or drunk driving to show that your injuries were not minor, unrelated or exaggerated.
At Rich & Rich, P.C., our attorneys understand that an accident cause is not just a detail in a report. It can shape settlement discussions, insurance negotiations and trial strategy. Our New York City injury lawyers can review the proof, identify all responsible parties and help protect the value of your claim.
If you suffered injuries in New York City, one of our Manhattan injury attorneys can help you understand whether your case involves no-fault benefits, a civil lawsuit or both.
Our New York Automobile Accident Lawyers Advocate With Passion
If you have been injured in an automobile accident, speak to an experienced New York City auto accident attorney as soon as possible. Our lawyers at Rich & Rich, P.C., have a proven track record. Personal service is a hallmark of their commitment to our clients.
They will review medical records and police accident reports; obtain and preserve evidence, such as photographs and witness statements; and secure expert witness opinions to win your case. Our seasoned automobile accident attorneys will explore all available options for recovery and, if a settlement is not in your best interests, they have the required skills and knowledge to aggressively represent you in court. They will only be compensated if they win or settle your case.
Contact Us For More Information About Your Options
Don’t wait. One of our New York City auto accident lawyers is ready to fight to try to obtain the maximum compensation possible for you. Contact Rich & Rich, P.C., online today, or call 212-407-5570 to learn more about your options. We are conveniently located in Manhattan and on Long Island.