New York City Side-Impact Collision Lawyer
Side-impact collisions – also called T-bone accidents, broadside crashes, or sideswipes – are among the most dangerous car accidents in New York City. Unlike front or rear-end crashes, the sides of vehicles lack strong crumple zones, leaving drivers and passengers exposed to catastrophic injuries.
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our experienced NYC car accident lawyers represent victims of side-impact crashes across all five boroughs and Long Island. If you or a loved one has been injured, we fight to recover the maximum compensation you deserve.
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) today for a free consultation with a New York City side-impact collision lawyer.
Common Causes of Side-Impact Accidents in New York City
Intersections, parking lots, and multi-lane highways in NYC are hotspots for broadside and sideswipe accidents. Common causes include:
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Failing to yield when turning left or at intersections
- Unsafe lane changes and blind-spot errors
- Speeding and reckless driving in congested areas
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS use, or phone calls)
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Fatigued or drowsy driving
- Hazardous road conditions or defective auto parts
When a commercial truck or MTA bus causes the crash, the risk of catastrophic injury is even greater due to the vehicle’s size and weight.
Why Side-Impact Crashes in NYC Are So Dangerous
Even at relatively low speeds, side-impact crashes can cause devastating injuries. Victims often suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) & concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Fractures (hips, ribs, arms, legs)
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Neck, back, and whiplash injuries
- Facial fractures, scarring, and dental trauma
- Wrongful death
Passengers seated on the side of impact face the highest risk of fatal or permanent injuries – especially children in back seats.
Proving Fault in a New York City Side-Impact Crash
New York law follows the comparative negligence doctrine, meaning that multiple parties may share responsibility. Even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover compensation (reduced by your percentage of fault).
Evidence our NYC car accident attorneys use to prove negligence includes:
- NYPD accident reports
- Traffic and surveillance camera footage
- Eyewitness testimony
- Vehicle black box and cell phone records
- Accident reconstruction expert testimony
Liability may extend beyond the negligent driver to:
- Automakers (if defective safety systems worsened the crash)
- NYC or municipal agencies (if broken signals, poor road design, or missing signage contributed)
Necessary: Claims against government entities in New York require a Notice of Claim to be filed within 90 days, and lawsuits must be filed within 1 year and 90 days.
Compensation Available to NYC Side-Impact Crash Victims
Our lawyers pursue full economic and non-economic damages under New York law, including:
Economic Damages
- Emergency medical care, surgeries, hospitalization
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Long-term care, home modifications, and mobility devices
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Reduced quality of life
Wrongful Death Damages
For fatal crashes, surviving families may recover:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical expenses before death
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
What to Do After a Side-Impact Crash in NYC
Protect your health and your case by taking these steps:
- Call 911 and seek immediate medical care.
- Request an NYPD accident report.
- Document the scene with photos and video.
- Collect witness names and contact info.
- Do not give recorded statements to insurers.
- Avoid posting about the crash on social media.
- Contact a New York City car accident lawyer immediately.
Statute of Limitations in New York
- Personal injury: 3 years from the crash date
- Wrongful death: 2 years from the date of death
- Government claims: 90-day Notice of Claim; 1 year + 90 days to file suit
If you don’t meet these deadlines, it can result in the permanent dismissal of your claim.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP?
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we have decades of experience handling side-impact and T-bone crash cases across New York City.
We offer:
- Seven convenient offices in Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers & Nassau County
- Our Fee Guarantee – No fee unless we win your case
- Bilingual legal services for Spanish-speaking clients
- Award-winning attorneys recognized by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers
- Proven results in high-value car accident settlements and verdicts
Our firm motto is: “Don’t Be a Victim Twice.”
Speak With a New York City Side-Impact Collision Attorney
If you or a loved one was injured in a side-impact or T-bone crash in New York City, don’t face insurers alone. Let our attorneys fight for your rights while you focus on healing.
Call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP today at 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) for a free consultation.
We proudly represent clients throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Long Island.