Why Am I Getting Spam Calls After a Car Accident in New York City?

After a car accident in New York City, many crash victims are surprised to receive suspicious calls, texts, or emails offering “help.” Unfortunately, scammers, unethical lawyers, and even some medical providers target accident victims when they’re most vulnerable. These unsolicited calls can put your privacy, finances, and legal rights at risk.

This guide explains why New Yorkers get spam calls after a crash, how to spot scams, and why working with a trusted NYC personal injury lawyer is the best way to protect yourself.

Why Am I Getting Spam Calls After a Car Accident in NYC?

There are several reasons victims in New York City start receiving unwanted calls after an accident:

• Public crash reports: In New York, certain police accident reports may be accessible. Solicitors use this information to contact victims.
• Data brokers & lead generators: Companies buy accident-related data from hospitals, towing companies, or scrape it from social media. They then sell it to lawyers or clinics.
• Scam operations: Fraudsters impersonate insurers, “accident helplines,” or medical providers to push victims into costly or unnecessary services.

Warning: These callers don’t have your best interests in mind. Their goal is to make money from your accident, not to help you recover.

Is It Legal for Lawyers to Cold Call Accident Victims in New York?

No. In New York, as in most states, it is unethical and illegal for attorneys to directly solicit accident victims. This practice known as barratry or “ambulance chasing” is prohibited under state law and the New York Rules of Professional Conduct.

Illegal tactics include:

• Receiving unsolicited calls, texts, or visits from lawyers you didn’t contact.
• “Runners” showing up at your hospital or home on behalf of a lawyer.
• Fake insurance or medical calls steering you toward a specific clinic or attorney.

Penalties: Attorneys who engage in these practices risk fines, suspension, disbarment, and even criminal charges.

Red Flags: How to Spot a Scam After an NYC Car Accident

If you receive a call after a car crash in New York City, be cautious of:

• Calls within hours or days of your accident.
• High-pressure sales tactics or promises of “quick compensation.”
• Requests for sensitive details like your Social Security number, insurance policy, or banking information.
• Caller ID spoofing or refusal to give a verifiable business name.

Rule of thumb: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Risks of Talking to Unsolicited Callers

Answering these calls can lead to serious harm, including:

• Identity theft – scammers harvest personal information.
• Insurance fraud – fraudsters file false claims in your name.
• Financial harm – you could be steered into expensive treatment or unfair settlements.
• Weakened legal case – agreeing to the wrong medical care or settlement can damage your injury claim.

Who Might Legitimately Contact You After an NYC Accident?

Not every call is fraudulent. Some legitimate contacts may include:

• Insurance companies – your insurer or the at-fault driver’s. (Never give recorded statements without legal advice.)
• Repair shops – often coordinated through your insurance.
• Medical providers – following up on treatment you already started.

Always verify the caller by hanging up and calling back through the official phone number.

How to Handle Unwanted Calls After a Car Accident in New York

• Don’t engage – hang up immediately.
• Never provide personal or financial details to unknown callers.
• Direct all communications to your New York car accident attorney if you have one.
• Keep a log of suspicious calls and report them to the New York State Bar Association or law enforcement.
• Use call-blocking apps and register with the National Do Not Call Registry.

Quick Script:

“I’m not discussing this over the phone. Please direct all questions to my attorney. What is your full name, company, and callback number?”

Protecting Yourself and Your Case

If you’re receiving spam calls after a crash, the safest step is to hire an experienced New York City personal injury lawyer. An attorney can:

• Shield you from harassing calls and scams.
• Handle communications with insurance companies.
• Investigate your accident and gather evidence.
• Fight for maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.

Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP in New York City?

At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we’ve built our reputation by protecting accident victims from scammers, insurers, and unethical lawyers.

• Local offices across New York City – Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County.
• Our Fee Guarantee – no fee unless we win your case.
• Hundreds of satisfied clients – proven results and five-star reviews.
• Bilingual legal services for the diverse NYC community.
• Award-winning attorneys – recognized by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers.
• We deal with insurance companies so you can focus on your recovery.

Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) today for a free consultation. The call is free, the consultation is free, and you don’t pay unless we’re successful.

Don’t be a victim twice. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New York City, trust Greenstein & Pittari to fight for the compensation you deserve.