New York City Personal Injury Lawyers for Serious Injuries That Start Small

Greenstein & Pittari, LLP – New York City Personal Injury Lawyers
Serving injured New Yorkers in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County

You walk away from a car accident, a fall, or a workplace incident in New York City thinking:

• “I am fine, it is just a bruise.”
• “My neck is a little stiff, but I will shake it off.”
• “I hit my head, but it is only a mild headache.”

In our NYC personal injury law practice, we see what happens next.

What seems like a minor ache after a crash or fall often becomes a serious, sometimes permanent injury. By the time the pain is unbearable, the insurance company is already calling it “no big deal,” blaming your pain on something else, or offering a low settlement that does not come close to covering your future medical care.

At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our New York City personal injury lawyers help you understand what your injuries really mean, make sure you get the medical care you need, and fight for the full compensation you deserve under New York law.

Free Consultation • No Fee Unless We Win
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) or contact us online today.
You pay no attorney’s fee unless we recover money for you.

Why “Minor” Injuries After an NYC Accident Should Never Be Ignored

Immediately after a New York City accident, your body releases adrenaline and stress hormones. These can:

• Numb or dull pain
• Make you feel “shaken up but okay.”
• Hide serious injuries for hours, days, or even weeks

That is why people so often brush off early symptoms such as:

• A stiff neck after a rear-end collision
• A bump or bruise after a slip and fall on a NYC sidewalk
• A “pulled muscle” at work
• A small cut from broken glass or sharp metal
• A mild headache after hitting their head

Later, those same “minor” complaints can turn into:

• Herniated discs and chronic back or neck pain
• Traumatic brain injuries with memory, mood, and concentration problems
• Internal bleeding or organ damage from chest or abdominal trauma
• Severe infections that lead to hospitalization or sepsis
• Permanent nerve damage or loss of function in a limb

Pain that you dismiss today can become the basis of a high-value New York personal injury case tomorrow. The problem is that if you delay medical care and legal help, the insurance company will use that delay to argue that your injuries are unrelated, exaggerated, or “not serious enough.”

If you were hurt in any accident in New York City, call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP as soon as possible.

What Counts as an Injury After a New York City Accident?

Legally and medically, an injury is any physical harm to your body caused by trauma, including:

• Car accidents, truck accidents, and motorcycle crashes
• Taxi, bus, subway-related, and rideshare accidents involving Uber or Lyft
• Bicycle, scooter, and pedestrian accidents on NYC streets and crosswalks
• Slip, trip, and fall incidents on sidewalks, stairways, stores, and apartment buildings
• Construction and workplace accidents
• Dog bites and animal attacks
• Injuries caused by defective products or unsafe property conditions

An injury can appear as:

• Bruising, swelling, or discoloration
• Pain, stiffness, or tenderness
• Loss of movement or strength
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness
• Headaches, dizziness, or confusion
• Scarring or disfigurement
• Internal bleeding or organ damage

Some injuries are apparent. Others are hidden and only show up later. Many start small and become serious if ignored. For both your health and your personal injury claim, early evaluation by a doctor is essential.

Acute vs Chronic Injuries After an NYC Accident

Understanding how your injury developed helps guide both your medical treatment and your legal strategy.

Acute Injuries

Acute injuries result from a specific event, such as:

• A rear-end collision on the FDR Drive
• A fall on icy steps in the Bronx
• A collapsed scaffold at a Manhattan construction site
• A falling object on a Brooklyn worksite

Common signs include:

• Sudden, sharp pain
• Rapid swelling
• Immediate loss of movement
• Visible deformity

Examples: shoulder dislocation, ankle sprain, sudden hip or back pain after a fall, a fractured wrist after bracing during a crash.

Chronic Injuries

Chronic injuries develop gradually and are common among New York City workers and commuters. They often result from:

• Repetitive motion or overuse at work
• Poor ergonomics at a desk or workstation
• Long-term strain from lifting or carrying
• Acute injuries that were never properly treated

Examples:

• Tendonitis and bursitis
• Meniscus wear and chronic knee problems
• Overuse related and shoulder pain
• Degenerative disc or joint disease

A chronic injury may begin as mild discomfort and quietly become disabling. If an NYC accident aggravates or accelerates an existing condition, you may still have a strong personal injury claim.

Major vs Minor Injuries in New York Personal Injury Law

In New York City personal injury cases, the distinction between a minor injury and a significant injury is not just a matter of diagnosis. What matters most is:

• How much medical care do you need
• How long the injury lasts
• Whether it affects your ability to work and perform daily activities
• Whether it creates permanent or long-term limitations

What Are Minor Injuries?

Minor injuries typically:

• Do not immediately threaten life
• Require limited medical care
• Are expected to heal within weeks or a few months
• Usually do not cause permanent disability

Examples:

• Superficial cuts and scrapes
• Bruises and skin lesions
• Mild sprains and strains
• Mild whiplash that resolves with treatment
• Minor burns affecting a small area of skin
• Small, stable fractures that heal without surgery

These injuries still cause pain, disrupt daily life, and generate medical bills. They can also become more serious if they are not treated or are repeatedly aggravated.

What Are Major Injuries?

Significant injuries are severe, non-fatal conditions that often:

• Require surgery or emergency treatment
• Involve hospital stays or intensive care
• Need long-term rehabilitation or specialist care
• Cause long-term or permanent loss of function

Examples:

• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions with prolonged symptoms
• Spinal cord injuries, paralysis, and severe nerve damage
• Complex or open fractures requiring surgery and hardware
• Severe burns, scarring, and disfigurement
• Amputations and crush injuries
• Serious head or eye injuries, loss of vision or hearing
• Internal bleeding, organ damage, and chest injuries
• Deep lacerations with heavy bleeding
• Injuries that cause loss of consciousness or respiratory distress

These injuries often change every aspect of a person’s life, including work, independence, and family relationships. They are also at the center of many high-value personal injury and car accident claims in NYC.

The “Iceberg Effect” in NYC Accident Cases

Minor injuries are often like an iceberg. You see a small part on the surface, but the most dangerous part is hidden underneath.

Warning Signs That a Minor Injury Is Becoming Major

You should treat your injury as potentially serious and seek prompt medical care if you notice:

1. Pain that lasts more than 2 to 3 weeks
   Pain that does not improve, or gets worse, may indicate:

1. Ligament or tendon tears
2. Disc herniation or nerve compression
3. Joint damage or chronic inflammation
4. Restricted movement, even with mild pain
   Loss of range of motion, stiffness, or weakness can signal:

2. Joint injury
3. Nerve damage
4. Structural problems in the spine or joints
5. Popping, cracking, or grinding in joints
   Sudden or persistent joint noises often reflect:

3. Cartilage damage
4. Ligament injury
5. Misalignment or degeneration
6. Delayed symptoms after an accident
   Especially after NYC car crashes and falls, watch for:

4. Headaches, dizziness, or confusion
5. Neck and shoulder stiffness
6. Back pain, numbness, or tingling
7. Abdominal or chest discomfort
8. Trouble sleeping or concentrating

These can indicate:

4. Concussion or traumatic brain injury
5. Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
6. Herniated discs or spinal injuries
7. Internal bleeding or organ damage
8. Signs of infection from a cut or wound
   Even a small cut can be dangerous if you see:

5. Spreading redness or warmth
6. Pus or unusual discharge
7. Fever, chills, or fatigue

Untreated infections can lead to sepsis, which is life-threatening and frequently requires intensive care.

If something feels off, do not ignore it. See a doctor and then call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP for legal guidance.

Why Immediate Medical Care Is Critical in NYC

Protect Your Health

After any accident in New York City, prompt medical evaluation can:

• Detect hidden injuries such as internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries
• Prevent complications like worsening nerve or joint damage
• Start treatment before an injury becomes chronic or permanent

Go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Sudden severe headache
• Inability to speak, see, or move normally
• Loss of consciousness
• Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding
• Obvious bone deformity or severe pain
• Severe burns or electrical injuries
• Persistent vomiting or suspected poisoning

When you have any doubts, please get checked out.

Protect Your Personal Injury Case

From a legal standpoint, early medical care:

• Creates a clear, dated record tying your injuries to the accident
• Shows how your symptoms developed and worsened over time
• Makes it much harder for the insurance company to claim that your injuries are unrelated or exaggerated
• Strengthens the value and credibility of your New York personal injury claim

Skipping or delaying treatment gives the insurance company a straightforward argument:
“If you were really hurt, you would have seen a doctor.”

If you are concerned about medical bills, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You may have:

• New York No-Fault (PIP) benefits in a car accident
• Workers’ compensation for an on-the-job injury
• Health insurance coverage
• Access to providers who are willing to treat accident victims with payment deferred until after settlement

The New York City personal injury lawyers at Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, help you understand and use every available option.

How Injury Severity Affects Your NYC Personal Injury Claim

If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, New York law may entitle you to compensation. The severity of your injuries affects:

• How much your case is worth
• How aggressively the insurance company will fight you
• How much proof and expert evidence will you need

Medical Bills and Future Care

For serious and evolving injuries, we pursue compensation for:

• Emergency room visits and hospital stays
• Surgeries and follow-up procedures
• Specialist care with orthopedists, neurologists, and pain management doctors
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Home care, home modifications, and assistive devices
• Long-term medications and ongoing treatment

Injuries that start “minor” can still lead to significant medical bills if complications develop or symptoms become chronic. Settling your NYC personal injury case too quickly can leave you paying these costs yourself.

Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity

If your injuries:

• Keep you out of work
• Reduce your hours or overtime
• Force you to change jobs or careers
• Prevent you from returning to your prior occupation

You may recover:

• Past lost wages
• Future lost income
• Compensation for reduced earning capacity

This is especially important for New York City workers whose jobs require physical activity, such as construction workers, nurses, home health aides, restaurant and hospitality staff, delivery drivers, and building service employees.

Pain and Suffering and Emotional Distress

New York personal injury law also allows recovery for non-economic damages, such as:

• Physical pain and discomfort
• Emotional distress and anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress, including fear of driving or falling again
• Sleep problems and fatigue
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Harm to relationships and family activities

Major injuries often result in higher pain and suffering awards, but so-called minor injuries that become chronic or disabling can also justify significant compensation.

Pre-Existing Conditions

If you had a preexisting condition that was aggravated by a New York accident, you may still have a strong claim. Under the “eggshell plaintiff” rule, the negligent party is responsible for the harm caused by making your condition worse.

Our NYC personal injury attorneys work with your doctors to distinguish:

• What your medical condition was before the accident
• What changed after the accident
• How the collision, fall, or work incident made things worse

Comparative Negligence in New York

New York uses comparative negligence. That means:

• You can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault
• Your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility
• You are not automatically barred just because you made a mistake

Never assume you have no case because you were distracted, moving quickly, or made a small error. Could you let Greenstein & Pittari, LLP review the facts first?

Statutes of Limitations and Deadlines

New York law sets strict deadlines for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In many negligence cases, you generally have three years from the date of the accident, but:

• Cases against public entities such as city agencies, public hospitals, or the MTA often require a Notice of Claim within 90 days
• Some injury types have different deadlines

If you miss these deadlines, you may permanently lose your right to recover compensation. Could you speak with a New York City personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident to avoid missing essential time limits?

What To Do After Any Accident in New York City

Whether your accident seems minor or significant, these steps can protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Stay Safe and Call 911 if Needed
   If possible, move to a safe location. Call emergency services for injuries or severe vehicle damage.
2. Call the Police
   A police report or incident report is critical in NYC car accident and premises cases, even for low-speed crashes or “small” falls.
3. Exchange Information
   Get names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers for all drivers or responsible parties. Collect contact information for witnesses.
4. Take Photos and Notes
   Photograph:

4. Vehicle damage
5. Traffic signals, road conditions, skid marks
6. Sidewalk or stairway hazards, spills, broken steps
7. Visible injuries

5. Seek Medical Attention Promptly
   Go to the ER, urgent care, or your own doctor, even if you think you are “probably fine.” Please report any areas of pain or discomfort.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
   Report the basic facts, but do not guess about your injuries and do not admit fault.
7. Do Not Give Recorded Statements or Sign Releases
   The other party’s insurance adjuster works for the insurance company, not for you. Politely decline recorded statements or quick settlement offers until you have spoken with a lawyer.
8. Call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP
   The sooner we are involved, the more we can do to preserve evidence, protect you from insurance tactics, and build a strong New York City personal injury claim.

How Greenstein & Pittari, LLP Helps When “Minor” Injuries Become Major

When you hire Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, you get more than someone to fill out forms. You get a team of New York City personal injury lawyers who treat your case like it matters, because it does.

We will:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly
  Review police reports, 911 records, video footage, photographs, scene conditions, and witness statements to prove what really happened.
• Work closely with your medical providers
  Understand your diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. When appropriate, consult independent medical experts to explain how your injuries developed and why they are serious.
• Handle all communication with insurance companies
  Stop the calls and letters. We speak for you and push back when adjusters downplay your injuries or blame you.
• Document your damages in detail
  Gather and organize medical bills, records, employment information, proof of lost wages, documentation of reduced earning capacity, and tangible evidence of pain and suffering.
• Negotiate aggressively for a full and fair settlement
  We prepare every case as if it might go before a jury, which often leads to stronger settlement offers.
• Go to court when necessary
  If the insurance company refuses to be fair, we are ready to present your case to a New York jury.

You focus on healing. We focus on everything else.

Our NYC Focused Practice Areas

We represent clients across New York City in personal injury cases where injuries that look minor often turn out to be serious, including:

• Motor Vehicle Accidents

• Car, SUV, and taxi accidents
• Uber, Lyft, and rideshare crashes
• Truck and commercial vehicle accidents
• Bus accidents and transit-related incidents
• Bicycle, scooter, and pedestrian accidents
• Premises Liability and Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents

• Broken or uneven sidewalks
• Defective stairs and railings
• Wet floors and spilled liquids in stores
• Poor lighting and negligent security in apartment buildings and businesses
• Workplace and Construction Accidents

• Falls from ladders, scaffolds, and roofs
• Falling objects and equipment accidents
• Unsafe worksites and Labor Law claims
• Repetitive use and overexertion injuries
• Other Personal Injury Claims

• Dog bites and animal attacks
• Assaults made worse by inadequate security
• Dangerous or defective products

Not sure if you have a case? Call us and ask. We would rather talk to you early than learn that a “small” injury became life-changing and no one was there to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Minor Injuries Can Become Major Injuries in New York City

1. How do I know if my injury is severe enough for a New York City personal injury claim?

The real question is not whether your injury looks dramatic. Instead ask:

• Did you need medical treatment?
• Are you in pain?
• Has your injury affected your work or daily activities?
• Could it lead to long-term problems?

Even injuries that began as a bruise, strain, or “just whiplash” may support a valid claim. A NYC personal injury lawyer at Greenstein & Pittari, LLP can review your case and give you honest guidance.

2. I felt fine at the scene but hurt the next day. Do I still have a case?

Very often, yes. Delayed pain is widespread after car accidents, falls, and work injuries because adrenaline and shock can mask symptoms. Neck, back, head, and internal injuries frequently appear later.

You should:

• See a doctor as soon as symptoms appear
• Explain when and how the accident occurred
• Contact a New York City personal injury attorney to discuss your options

3. I did not go to the hospital right away. Did I ruin my case?

Not necessarily. Many people try to “tough it out,” or hope pain will fade. While delay gives insurers something to argue about, you can often still bring a claim if:

• You seek medical evaluation as soon as possible
• You are honest about when your symptoms began
• Your medical providers can connect your condition to the accident

The sooner you get both medical and legal help, the better.

4. Can minor injuries still qualify for compensation in New York City?

Yes. Even so-called minor injuries can:

• Require urgent care or doctor visits
• Lead to physical therapy or chiropractic care
• Force you to miss work or change duties
• Interfere with everyday activities and hobbies

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more, even if your injury did not initially seem catastrophic.

5. The insurance company says my injury is minor. Should I believe them?

No. The insurance company’s goal is to pay as little as possible. Adjusters often:

• Downplay pain and limitations
• Blame everything on pre-existing conditions
• Point to low vehicle damage to claim you “could not be that hurt.”
• Offer quick, low settlements

Only your doctors can properly evaluate your medical condition, and only your lawyer can determine the fair value of your New York personal injury claim.

6. What if I had a pre-existing condition and the accident made it worse?

You’ll still be able to bring a claim. Under New York law, a negligent party is responsible for aggravating or worsening a pre-existing condition. This is sometimes called the eggshell plaintiff rule.

We work with your treating doctors and, if necessary, independent experts to:

• Document your condition before the accident
• Show how the accident changed your symptoms, limitations, or treatment needs

7. Do I need medical records to file a personal injury claim in NYC?

Yes. Medical records are critical evidence. They:

• Prove that you were injured
• Show the timing and progression of symptoms
• Support expert opinions about future treatment and limitations

Consistent treatment and accurate reporting strengthen your case. If you have not seen a doctor yet, your first step should be medical care, followed by a consultation with an attorney.

8. How long do I have to file a personal injury case in New York?

In many New York negligence cases, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However:

• Claims against public entities, such as city agencies or public transportation, often require a Notice of Claim within 90 days
• Workers’ compensation and specific other claims have different deadlines

Because missed deadlines can permanently bar your claim, it is critical to speak with a New York City personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

9. How much does it cost to hire Greenstein & Pittari, LLP?

We handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis:

• No upfront legal fees
• No hourly billing
• We only get paid if we recover money for you
• Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict, explained clearly in advance

If we do not win, you do not owe us an attorney’s fee.

10. What should I bring to my free consultation with a NYC personal injury lawyer?

Bring whatever you have, including:

• Accident or police reports
• Photos or videos of the scene and your injuries
• Medical records and discharge papers
• Names and contact information for doctors and facilities
• Pay stubs or employer notes showing missed work
• Letters, emails, or texts from any insurance company

If you do not have all of these yet, do not worry. We can help you gather the documents you need.

11. Do I have to go to court for my New York City personal injury case?

Not always. Many NYC personal injury and car accident cases settle out of court. However:

• We prepare every case as if it may go to trial
• We advise you on whether a settlement offer is fair
• If the insurance company refuses to be reasonable, we are ready to present your case to a jury

You always make the final decision about settlement versus trial, with our guidance.

12. What should I do right now if I were just in an accident in NYC and my injuries seem minor?

• Get medical attention as soon as possible
• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully
• Do not give recorded statements or sign releases for insurance
• Save all accident and medical documents
• Call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP to learn your rights before you make any major decisions

Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP for Your NYC Injury Case?

• Local Harlem office and six additional locations for convenience and in-person access
• Offices in Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County
• Your convenience is our priority
• No fee unless we win your case, backed by our Fee Guarantee
• Bilingual services available
• Top-rated, award-winning New York City personal injury lawyers, including recognition from Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers
• Hundreds of positive client reviews and testimonials
• We handle the insurance companies so you can focus on healing
• We focus exclusively on personal injury law, with a proven record of results, responsiveness, and relentless advocacy

Our firm motto is simple: “Don’t Be a Victim Twice.”

If you are a victim of an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver in New York City or anywhere in the region, call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) to schedule a confidential consultation.

Talk to a New York City Personal Injury Lawyer Today

• Minor injuries can become major injuries.
• Delayed pain can reveal serious problems.
• Quick settlements can leave you unprotected and undercompensated.

You don’t need to worry about this alone.

Greenstein & Pittari, LLP – Fighting for Injured New Yorkers

• We help you understand your medical and legal options
• We protect you from unfair insurance tactics and lowball offers
• We fight for the full compensation you deserve under New York law

Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation with a New York City personal injury lawyer.

The call is free. The consultation is free.
You do not pay us unless we are successful.

Your injury is real—your recovery matters.
We proudly represent injured clients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County.