Wrong-Way Car Accident Lawyer in New York
Representing Victims Across New York City, Long Island & the Hudson Valley
Wrong-way crashes are among the most devastating and preventable collisions on New York’s roads. Whether on the Long Island Expressway, I-87, the Taconic Parkway, or city streets, these accidents often occur in seconds—leaving victims little time to react. The consequences are catastrophic, often resulting in life-altering injuries or wrongful death.
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our New York car accident attorneys have decades of experience representing victims of serious and fatal collisions. We hold negligent drivers, municipalities, and other responsible parties fully accountable for the harm they cause.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a wrong-way crash anywhere in New York City, Long Island, or Upstate, call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) for a free consultation.
You pay nothing unless we win your case.
Understanding Wrong-Way Accidents in New York
A wrong-way car accident occurs when a driver travels against the flow of traffic, such as entering a one-way street or a highway ramp in the wrong direction. These are among the most dangerous and fatal types of collisions, often resulting in a head-on impact.
According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), wrong-way crashes are 27 times more likely to result in fatalities than other types of accidents. Because these incidents are almost always preventable, victims have substantial legal grounds to pursue compensation through a personal injury or wrongful death claim.
Common Causes of Wrong-Way Crashes in New York
Most wrong-way collisions stem from negligence or impaired driving. Common causes include:
1. Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving
Over 60% of wrong-way crashes involve alcohol. Intoxicated drivers often miss “Do Not Enter” or “Wrong Way” signs, especially at night. Under New York’s Dram Shop Law, bars and restaurants that over-serve patrons can share liability.
2. Distracted Driving
Texting, using GPS, or eating behind the wheel can lead to missing crucial directional signage or crossing the median into oncoming traffic.
3. Drowsy or Fatigued Driving
Late-night driving and exhaustion slow reaction times and can lead to confusion or drifting into opposing lanes.
4. Elderly or Medically Impaired Drivers
Medical conditions or cognitive impairments can lead drivers to enter the wrong lane or highway ramp.
5. Poor Signage, Lighting, or Road Design
Inadequate lighting, faded signage, and confusing ramps increase risk. Cities, counties, or state agencies responsible for road maintenance may share liability for any accidents that occur.
6. Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Excessive speeding, illegal U-turns, and disregard for traffic rules can cause deadly head-on collisions.
7. Bad Weather or Low Visibility
Fog, snow, and rain often obscure signs and road markings, leading to confusion.
No matter the cause, wrong-way accidents are preventable, and those responsible should be held legally accountable.
Severe Injuries in Wrong-Way Collisions
Wrong-way accidents typically occur at high speeds, resulting in catastrophic injuries such as:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Multiple fractures and crush injuries
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Facial trauma, burns, or disfigurement
- Amputations or permanent disability
- Psychological trauma or PTSD
- Fatal injuries leading to wrongful death claims
Victims often require lifelong medical treatment, rehabilitation, and financial support. At Greenstein & Pittari, we ensure every aspect of your loss is fully documented and compensated.
Proving Liability in a Wrong-Way Car Accident
While the wrong-way driver is typically presumed to be at fault, other entities may also share responsibility. Our legal team conducts comprehensive investigations to uncover all contributing factors and liable parties.
Key Evidence May Include:
- Police and accident reports
- Traffic camera or surveillance footage
- Skid marks and debris analysis
- Witness statements and 911 recordings
- Vehicle data and medical documentation
- Accident reconstruction by experts
Potentially Liable Parties:
- The wrong-way driver (for negligent or impaired driving)
- Bars or restaurants (under the Dram Shop Law)
- Municipalities or contractors (for defective signage or poor road design)
- Employers or vehicle owners (if a company vehicle was involved)
- Vehicle manufacturers (for mechanical or steering defects)
Our attorneys pursue every available source of recovery to maximize your compensation.
What To Do After a Wrong-Way Accident in New York
- Call 911 immediately for police and medical assistance.
- Move to safety if possible.
- Seek medical attention, even for minor symptoms – internal injuries may not appear right away.
- Document the scene – take photos of vehicles, signage, and lighting.
- Collect witness information and note responding officers.
- Avoid insurance statements until you’ve consulted an attorney.
- Contact Greenstein & Pittari, LLP immediately to protect your rights.
Taking action quickly helps preserve critical evidence and strengthens your legal claim.
Compensation for Wrong-Way Accident Victims in New York
Wrong-way crash victims may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages, such as:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Rehabilitation and long-term care
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life or companionship
- Wrongful death damages for surviving families
While New York’s no-fault system covers initial medical bills, victims with “serious injuries” under Insurance Law §5102(d) can step outside the no-fault system and pursue full compensation in court.
Our firm works with medical, financial, and engineering experts to calculate your total losses and demand maximum recovery.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP
At Greenstein & Pittari, we combine decades of courtroom experience with personalized service. We’re not just attorneys – we’re advocates for New Yorkers rebuilding their lives after serious accidents.
Our Commitment
- No Fee Unless We Win – Our Fee Guarantee
- Local Harlem Office for convenience and trust
- Bilingual Services (English & Spanish)
- Top-Rated by Best Lawyers & Super Lawyers
- Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews & Testimonials
- We Handle Insurance Companies So You Can Focus on Healing
Our motto says it all:
“Don’t Be a Victim Twice.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrong-Way Accidents in New York
Who is at fault in a wrong-way crash?
The wrong-way driver is almost always responsible, but bars, contractors, or municipalities may also be liable if their negligence contributed to the accident.
Can I file a lawsuit even though New York is a no-fault state?
Yes. If your injuries qualify as “serious,” such as fractures, disfigurement, or permanent disability, you may file a personal injury or wrongful death claim.
What types of compensation are available?
Victims can recover medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, property damage, and wrongful death damages for families.
How long do I have to file a claim?
You generally have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit and two years for wrongful death. Cases against government entities require a Notice of Claim to be filed within 90 days.
What does it cost to hire your firm?
We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs and no legal fees unless we win.
Speak with a New York Wrong-Way Car Accident Lawyer Today
A wrong-way collision can change your life in an instant – but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we fight to protect your rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure full justice for your family.
We proudly serve clients throughout:
- New York City – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx & Staten Island
- Long Island – Nassau & Suffolk Counties
- Hudson Valley & Upstate – including Westchester, Rockland & Albany
Call 1-800-VICTIM-2 (1-800-842-8462) or contact us online for a free and confidential consultation.
The call is free. The consultation is free.
You don’t pay unless we win.