New York City T-Bone Accident Lawyer
Understanding T-Bone Accidents in NYC
A T-bone accident – also called a side-impact collision or broadside crash – occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These accidents are hazardous because the sides of vehicles offer little protection compared to the front or rear.
In New York City, where intersections are crowded, drivers are often distracted, and red-light violations are common, T-bone accidents happen every day. Victims frequently suffer catastrophic injuries, face mounting medical bills, and lose income during recovery. Having an experienced NYC T-bone accident lawyer on your side is critical to protect your rights and secure maximum compensation.
Common Causes of T-Bone Crashes in New York City
Most side-impact crashes in NYC occur at intersections due to negligence or traffic violations. Common causes include:
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Unsafe or illegal left-hand turns
- Speeding or attempting to “beat” a yellow light
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS, or phone use)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Fatigued or drowsy driving
- Aggressive or reckless maneuvers
- Vehicles pulling out of driveways or parking lots without caution
- Hazardous intersections, broken traffic lights, or missing signage
- Mechanical failures such as defective brakes or airbags
Liability in a New York T-bone accident may extend beyond the negligent driver to a municipality (for defective signals or poor road design), an employer (if the at-fault driver was on the job), or a manufacturer (for defective vehicle parts).
Why NYC T-Bone Accidents Are So Dangerous
- Minimal side protection – doors and panels absorb little impact energy.
- Airbag limitations – not all vehicles have side airbags.
- Secondary crashes – struck vehicles may spin into other cars, poles, or pedestrians.
Common Injuries from Side-Impact Collisions in New York
Because the impact occurs so close to passengers, T-bone accident injuries in NYC are often severe and life-changing:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, and skull fractures
- Neck and spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, paralysis
- Broken bones (pelvis, ribs, arms, legs) and crush injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Chest trauma and punctured lungs
- Severe lacerations, burns, amputations, or scarring
- PTSD, anxiety, and other psychological harm
- Wrongful death in the most serious cases
New York Laws on Liability & Compensation
No-Fault Insurance in NYC
New York is a no-fault insurance state. After a crash, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage provides up to $50,000 in medical and economic benefits, including:
- Medical care and hospital bills
- Partial lost wages (capped at $2,000/month for up to 3 years)
- $25/day for transportation and incidental costs
- $2,000 in death benefits
Serious Injury Threshold
Suppose your injuries qualify as “serious” under New York Insurance Law § 5102(d) (such as permanent disability, disfigurement, or loss of function). In that case, you may step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver.
Comparative Negligence Rule
New York follows pure comparative negligence (CPLR §1411). Even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover damages, reduced by your percentage of fault.
Statute of Limitations in New York
- Personal injury: 3 years from the accident date
- Wrongful death: 2 years from the date of death
- Claims against municipalities: Notice of Claim within 90 days; lawsuit within 1 year and 90 days
- No-fault claims (PIP): 30 days from the date of the crash
Compensation Available to NYC T-Bone Accident Victims
Victims of side-impact crashes in New York City may recover damages for:
- Current and future medical bills
- Rehabilitation and long-term care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
- Punitive damages in cases of reckless driving (e.g., DUI crashes)
What to Do After a T-Bone Accident in New York City
- Call 911 and ensure a police report is filed.
- Get medical treatment right away.
- Take photos of the accident scene, traffic lights, and vehicle damage.
- Collect witness statements and driver information.
- Do not admit fault at the scene.
- Notify your insurance company, but avoid detailed statements.
- Contact an experienced New York City car accident lawyer to protect your rights.
How Our NYC T-Bone Accident Lawyers Can Help
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we fight for T-bone accident victims in NYC by providing:
- Thorough investigations – reviewing police reports, traffic camera footage, and black box data
- Expert collaboration – accident reconstruction and medical experts to strengthen your case
- Aggressive negotiations – pushing back against insurance company tactics
- Litigation strength – ready to take your case to trial if necessary
- Personalized service – direct access to your attorney and clear communication at every stage
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees are due unless we successfully secure compensation on your behalf.
Wrongful Death from T-Bone Crashes in New York City
Sadly, many T-bone collisions in NYC are fatal. Families may bring a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages for:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical bills related to the final injury
- Lost wages and household support
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and parental care
- Emotional suffering
Wrongful death claims in New York must generally be filed within 2 years of the date of death.
FAQs About T-Bone Accidents in NYC
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a T-bone accident in New York City?
- You generally have 3 years for personal injury, 2 years for wrongful death, and just 90 days for claims against government agencies.
Who is usually at fault in a T-bone accident in NYC?
- Liability often depends on right-of-way. Negligent drivers, municipalities, or manufacturers may share responsibility.
Can I sue if I was partly at fault?
- Yes. New York’s comparative negligence law allows recovery even if you share blame, though your award is reduced.
What damages can I recover after a side-impact crash?
- Medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, future care, emotional distress, property damage, and wrongful death damages.
Do I need a lawyer if I already have no-fault insurance?
- Yes. PIP benefits are limited, and most serious T-bone crash victims qualify to sue for additional compensation. A lawyer ensures you don’t accept a low settlement.
Will my T-bone accident case in NYC go to trial?
- Most cases settle, but our firm prepares every case for trial to maximize your recovery.
Contact a New York City T-Bone Accident Lawyer
A T-bone accident in New York City can change your life instantly. You should not bear the financial burden of another driver’s negligence.
Call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP today at 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) for a free consultation.
- No fee unless we win – Our Fee Guarantee
- Bilingual services available
- Seven convenient offices across NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, plus Yonkers and Nassau County
Don’t Be a Victim Twice – Call Now.