Teen Driver Car Accident Lawyer in New York
Teen drivers face unique risks behind the wheel, and unfortunately, car accidents involving teenage drivers are common in New York City and throughout the state. Inexperience, distraction, and peer pressure often combine with New York’s heavy traffic and complex roads to create dangerous conditions.
If you or your child has been injured in a crash involving a teen driver, you may be entitled to compensation. At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our New York teen car accident lawyers fight for victims and families across NYC and surrounding counties.
Why Teen Drivers Are High-Risk in New York
According to the CDC and NHTSA, car crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers ages 16–19. In New York, the risks are even higher due to the city’s congested highways, aggressive driving patterns, and high traffic volume.
Common causes of teen driver accidents in New York include:
- Distracted driving – texting, social media, or talking with passengers
- Speeding and reckless driving – tailgating, weaving, or running red lights
- Nighttime driving – nearly 40% of fatal teen crashes happen between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m.
- Peer pressure – crash risks rise with each additional teen passenger
- Alcohol and drug use – despite New York’s zero-tolerance law for drivers under 21
- Failure to wear seatbelts – over half of teen passenger fatalities involve no restraints
New York Teen Driving Laws: The GDL System
New York enforces a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system to reduce risks:
- Learner’s Permit (16+) – requires supervision and limits nighttime driving
- Junior License (16½–17) – limited unsupervised driving, restrictions on passengers and hours
- Full License (17–18+) – full privileges after a safe driving experience
Violations of GDL restrictions can result in penalties and suspensions, and may strengthen negligence claims in an accident lawsuit.
Who Is Liable in a New York Teen Driver Accident?
Determining liability in a teen driver crash is often complex. Potentially responsible parties include:
- The teen driver – for negligent or reckless behavior
- Parents or guardians – who signed the teen’s license application or negligently entrusted the family car
- Insurance companies – most claims are paid through the parents’ auto policy
- Other negligent drivers – if multiple parties contributed to the crash
- Vehicle manufacturers – if a defect worsened the accident
- Government entities – if poor road design or maintenance contributed
Under New York’s Social Host Liability Law (GOL § 11-100), adults who provide alcohol to minors can also be held accountable if the teen later causes an accident.
No-Fault Insurance & Serious Injury Threshold in NY
New York’s no-fault insurance system requires crash victims to first use Personal Injury Protection (PIP) for medical costs and lost wages. To file a lawsuit, your injuries must meet the serious injury threshold under NY Insurance Law § 5102, including:
- Fractures
- Significant disfigurement
- Permanent disability or limitation
- Wrongful death
Common Teen Car Accident Injuries in New York
Accidents caused by teen drivers often result in severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Severe fractures and orthopedic injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Emotional trauma and PTSD
These injuries often require long-term care and may permanently affect victims’ lives.
Compensation for Teen Driver Car Accidents in New York
A skilled NYC teen driver accident attorney can pursue damages for:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation
- Future care and therapy costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages (funeral costs, loss of support)
- Punitive damages (in extreme cases of reckless driving)
Statute of Limitations in New York Teen Accident Claims
New York law sets strict deadlines for filing claims:
- Personal Injury – 3 years from the accident date
- Wrongful Death – 2 years from the date of death
- Claims Against Government Entities – Notice of Claim within 90 days
- Minors – extensions may apply, but acting quickly is critical
What to Do After a Teen Driver Accident in NYC
If you or your child is involved in a teen driver crash in New York:
- Call 911 and request medical help.
- Document the accident scene with photos and witness details.
- Exchange license and insurance information.
- Report the crash to your insurance company.
- Avoid admitting fault or accepting early settlement offers.
- Contact an experienced New York teen accident lawyer immediately.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP?
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we specialize in personal injury law and have decades of experience handling teen driver accident cases across New York City, Long Island, and surrounding counties.
Why clients choose us:
- Local offices in Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County
- Our Fee Guarantee – No fee unless we win
- Award-winning attorneys recognized by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers
- Hundreds of satisfied client testimonials
- Bilingual legal services available
Speak With a New York Teen Car Accident Lawyer Today
Don’t face the aftermath of a teen driver crash alone. Whether you or your child was injured as a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, our NYC teen accident attorneys will fight for your rights.
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) today for a free consultation.
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we’ll investigate your case, negotiate with insurers, and fight in court if necessary.
Don’t Be a Victim Twice – Trust Our Experienced New York Car Accident Lawyers.