Manhattan Car Accident Attorney

NYC Car Accident Legal Team Helping Injury Victims Recover Compensation in Personal Injury Lawsuits

Life in Manhattan is fast-paced, vibrant, and full of possibilities, but all of that can come to a screeching halt after a car accident. One moment, you’re heading to work, picking up your kids, or running errands; the next, you’re facing injuries, financial stress, and uncertainty about the future. Car accidents can upend lives in a matter of seconds, leaving victims grappling with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. At the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C., we are dedicated to helping car accident victims in Manhattan secure the justice and compensation they deserve. With extensive experience in personal injury law, we provide compassionate, aggressive legal representation to hold negligent parties accountable.

Were you involved in a car wreck in New York? If the negligence of another driver caused your accident and you believe you may have a car accident case, it is very important to take specific action to not only ensure that you and your passengers are safe but also to ensure that your right to pursue damages is maintained.

How Common Are Auto Accidents in New York City?

New York City is home to more than eight million people. Our roads are heavily congested, and unfortunately, this can result in many motor vehicle accidents. Every year, there are thousands of auto accidents in New York City. In fact, there are, on average, over 200 motor vehicle collisions in the city daily. Queens and Brooklyn see the most car accidents, followed closely by Manhattan, then the Bronx, and Staten Island.

After a peak in traffic-related fatalities during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, auto accident fatalities have begun to steadily decline. In 2024, there were 252 car accident fatalities, down 24 from 2021. According to the city, 2024 was the safest year for motorists in New York since 2019.

Safer though our streets may be becoming, driver negligence and other common causes still leave many NYC car accident victims with catastrophic injuries. If you or a loved one suffered severe injuries or worse in a car crash, you need the legal representation of experienced personal injury attorneys to represent your interests. Remember, car insurance companies are not on your side. You need a top car accident lawyer to advocate for your rights in the pursuit of past and future medical bills and other expenses related to the injuries sustained in the collision. Contact our New York car accident attorney to discuss your case in a free consultation today.

Can Our Law Firm Assist You with Your New York City Car Accident Lawsuit?

Manhattan is unlike any other place in the world. With its crowded streets, endless traffic, and constant hustle, car accidents are an unfortunate reality. Navigating the aftermath of a car accident here requires more than just legal know-how; it demands an understanding of the city’s unique challenges, from navigating its dense traffic patterns to dealing with local insurance complexities.

At the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C., we specialize in helping accident victims in Manhattan. Our mission is to secure the compensation you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. You focus on healing—we’ll handle the rest.

To find out if you are eligible to file a car accident claim to recover your losses, contact the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C. at 917-924-9790 to schedule your free case consultation.

What Steps Must You Take After a Car Collision in New York City?

Surviving a motor vehicle crash can be terrifying. But there are certain steps that you should take in order to safeguard your well-being and the well-being of any passengers, as well as strengthen the validity of your personal injury claim when it comes time to file a lawsuit against the at-fault parties.

After a car accident, be sure to do the following:

Do not take the blame for the collision. Do not say “I’m sorry.” Statements like this may be taken the wrong way and imply that you are taking responsibility for the accident, which may be used against you in court.
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call 911 or get help from any bystanders; however, if the injuries are serious, it may be better to stay where you are and wait for emergency services.
If you are able, get you and your passengers to safety, and if possible, move your car to safety as well.
Even if the accident was a minor “fender-bender,” call 911. Calling the police will be helpful if you do make a claim because the officer will make an accident report, which documents details about the wreck.
Be sure to exchange contact information with the other drivers and witnesses—obtain full names, phone numbers, emails, insurance company, policy number, driver’s license number, license, plates, type, color, and model of vehicles involved.
Make detailed notes about the accident as soon as possible — the longer you wait, the fewer details will be clear to you as time goes on. Details will be imperative for your case.
Reach out to your insurance company and notify them about the collision.
Do not talk to the other driver’s insurance company or accept a settlement.
Get in touch with a seasoned Manhattan car accident lawyer at the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C., for a case evaluation.
Do not post anything on social media, even if it is unrelated to the car accident — the other driver’s insurance company will use anything they find as long as it works against your case. Think before you post, share, react, or interact with others on social media, even if it is not related to the accident.

If an insurance adjuster insists on speaking to you, instead, direct them to speak to your New York car accident lawyer. Our attorney will represent your interests in negotiations with the insurance companies and lawyers representing the other motorists. To learn more about how an experienced car accident lawyer can assist you through this legal process, contact our law office to schedule your free initial consultation today.

Is Seeking Medical Attention Really That Important Following Traffic Accidents?

Prompt medical treatment is essential for your health and well-being and can also help strengthen your personal injury case.

If you know that you have suffered serious injuries, it may be important to seek emergency medical attention even before speaking to the police. However, even if you do not feel seriously injured, getting professional medical treatment is still important for a couple of reasons. Firstly, some injuries do not manifest immediately, and your adrenaline rush could be dulling some of the pain. If you do not get proper medical care, the injuries could become far worse. Secondly, if you wait too long to seek medical attention, the insurance company or even the jury may view your delay as an indication that your injuries were not as serious as you claimed them to be. If this happens, you could limit the amount of total compensation you stand to recover with a successful claim.

After getting the medical attention you and other injured passengers require, you should get in touch with a NYC car accident attorney to discuss your case.

What is the Importance of Timely Legal Action?

After a car accident, the clock starts ticking on your ability to file a claim and secure the compensation you deserve. It’s crucial to understand that evidence can deteriorate, witness memories can fade, and insurance companies may attempt to settle quickly at a lower amount. By taking timely legal action, you not only protect your rights but also strengthen your case.

Here are some compelling reasons to act quickly:

Preservation of Evidence: Key evidence, such as traffic camera footage or eyewitness accounts, may be lost over time. Swift action ensures that all relevant information is documented and preserved.
Statute of Limitations: In New York, you typically have a limited time frame to file a lawsuit after an accident. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to compensation.
Insurance Negotiations: The sooner you involve a lawyer, the better equipped you’ll be to negotiate with insurance companies, who often try to minimize payouts.
Maximizing Compensation: Early legal intervention can help you identify all potential sources of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C., to schedule a consultation and ensure your rights are protected from the very beginning.

What Are Your Legal Rights in NYC Car Accident Cases?

Navigating the legal landscape after a car accident can be overwhelming. Understanding your rights and the protections available to you under New York law is crucial. Many individuals are unaware that they may be entitled to compensation beyond medical bills and vehicle repairs. This includes lost wages, pain and suffering, and even future medical expenses.

Here are some key rights you should be aware of:

Right to Medical Care: You have the right to seek medical attention and receive treatment for your injuries without worrying about upfront costs.
Right to Fair Compensation: You deserve to be compensated for all damages incurred, including emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life.
Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to hire an attorney who will advocate for your best interests and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Right to Privacy: Your medical records and personal information are protected, and you should only share details relevant to your claim.

At the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C., we are committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through every step of the legal process. Our experienced team will work tirelessly to ensure that you are fully informed and empowered to make the best decisions for your case.

Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Let us help you understand your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

What is the Impact of a Motor Vehicle Accident?

A car accident doesn’t just leave physical scars; it can affect every aspect of your life. From mounting medical bills to lost wages and emotional trauma, the ripple effects can feel overwhelming.

The common struggles after a car accident include:

Physical Injuries: From whiplash to traumatic brain injuries, even “minor” accidents can lead to significant health issues.
Financial Stress: Medical bills, car repairs, and time off work can quickly add up, leaving you in a precarious financial situation.
Emotional Distress: Anxiety, PTSD, and depression often follow the chaos of a crash.
Legal Confusion: Dealing with insurance adjusters, legal paperwork, and deadlines can add unnecessary stress during an already challenging time.

Our team is here to lift the burden off your shoulders. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery and your loved ones.

What Are Common Car Accident Injuries?

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, ranging from mild to severe.

Some of the most common injuries include:

Broken Bones: Car accidents can cause fractures to various bones, including the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Depending on the severity, fractures may require surgery, casting, or even long-term rehabilitation.
Burns: In more severe accidents, especially involving fire or chemical exposure, burns can occur. Burns can range from minor first-degree burns to severe third-degree burns, requiring long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
Chest Injuries: Chest injuries, including broken ribs or damage to the lungs, can occur from the force of the steering wheel or seatbelt during a collision. These injuries can cause difficulty breathing and require immediate medical attention.
Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Concussions and TBIs are caused by sudden impacts to the head, either from the steering wheel, window, or dashboard. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain injuries, leading to long-term cognitive issues, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating.
Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, debris, and contact with the vehicle’s interior can lead to cuts, abrasions, and deep lacerations. Depending on the severity, these injuries may require stitches or long-term care to prevent infection and scarring.
Facial Injuries: Facial injuries such as broken bones, lacerations, or dental damage can occur from the deployment of airbags or impact with the vehicle. These injuries can result in permanent scarring, disfigurement, or vision issues.
Internal Injuries: Car accidents can lead to injuries to internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys, often caused by blunt force trauma. These types of injuries are particularly dangerous because they might not be immediately noticeable, but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Knee and Leg Injuries: In high-impact accidents, the knees and legs are at risk of being injured, especially if they strike the dashboard or are trapped in the vehicle. Common injuries include broken bones, dislocations, and torn ligaments.
Psychological Injuries: Emotional and psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, can result from the trauma of a car accident. These conditions may affect a person’s ability to function normally in everyday life.
Soft Tissue Injuries: In addition to whiplash, other soft tissue injuries like sprains, strains, and torn muscles or ligaments can occur. These injuries may not show up immediately, but can cause significant pain, swelling, and long-term discomfort.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spine can result from high-impact collisions and can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis. Spinal cord injuries can also cause loss of sensation, limited mobility, and difficulty with body functions.
Whiplash: Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in rear-end collisions. It occurs when the head is jerked forward and backward suddenly, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.

If you have suffered any of these injuries in a car accident, it’s essential to seek immediate medical care. Some symptoms may develop over time even if injuries don’t seem severe at first. Consulting an experienced attorney can help you secure the compensation needed for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer from Our Law Office Assist You?

You shouldn’t have to face this difficult time alone. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, our team is committed to helping you rebuild your life after an accident. We combine legal expertise with genuine compassion to ensure you feel seen, heard, and supported throughout the legal process.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Manhattan, don’t let the aftermath overwhelm you. At the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C., we are here to help you every step of the way. From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, our dedicated team will fight tirelessly for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Ready to Discuss Your Case? Contact Our Manhattan Law Firm Now at 917-924-9790 for Immediate Assistance with Your Car Accident Claim.

What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents in New York?

Car accidents are unfortunate events that can have serious consequences, ranging from property damage to life-altering injuries. Understanding the common causes of car accidents is essential for promoting road safety and minimizing the risk of collisions. From distracted driving to adverse weather conditions, various factors contribute to the occurrence of accidents on the road.

Common causes of car crashes include the following:

Distracted Driving
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Fatigue
Inexperienced Drivers
Mechanical Failures
Poor Weather Conditions
Reckless Driving
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Speeding
Tailgating
Texting While Driving

Why Choose Our Law Firm for Your Car Accident Claims in Manhattan?

When it comes to choosing advocacy that can effectively help your cause, you may be wondering what sets us apart. You will receive many benefits that are incomparable to any other law firm.

When you choose the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C., you can count on receiving straightforward, simple answers about:

Out-of-pocket expenses
Medical payments coverage
Property damage
Lost wages
Car repairs
Strategies for fighting for fair insurance claims

Whether it’s getting money for medical bills, receiving full assistance in completing the necessary paperwork, or stepping in to deal with the insurance company, we’re here to help get you back on your feet. Your case will probably be handled by an insurance company that has a team of lawyers and adjusters working on its behalf. As a result, these lawyers strive to minimize the financial expenses to their clients, and you will need our aggressive professionals to fight on your behalf.

FAQs About Car Accidents

What types of car accident cases does the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C., represent?

Our law firm has years of experience representing various types of car accident cases, including T-bone accidents, rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, single vehicle crashes, rideshare accidents, commercial trucking accidents, highway and interstate crashes, sideswipes, multiple vehicle pile-ups, intersection collisions, drunk driving accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and more. Whatever type of auto accident you’ve endured, you can rest assured that our legal team is ready to represent you.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is three years from the date of the accident. However, acting quickly ensures stronger evidence and a more compelling case.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

New York requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage. Our team can help you navigate this type of claim to recover damages.

Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, New York follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages, but your percentage of fault may reduce your compensation.

What sort of financial recovery is possible with a successful car accident injury case?

With a successful claim, it is possible to recover financial compensation in the form of economic and non-economic damages. Potential monetary compensation may include the following: lost wages, lost income earning capacity, past and future medical expenses, property damage, physical pain and suffering compensation, emotional distress compensation, lost quality of life, loss of companionship, wrongful death damages in the event of a fatal accident.

What if the accident involved an Uber or Lyft driver?

Rideshare accidents involve additional complexities. We can help you pursue compensation through the rideshare company’s or the driver’s personal insurance policy.

What evidence may prove useful in auto accident cases?

Common pieces of evidence that are likely to help strengthen your claim and assist you in securing a fair settlement may include the following: eyewitness testimonies, photographic evidence from the accident scene, the police reports, insurance company records, surveillance video evidence, past and present medical records, the testimony of professional accident reconstructionists, and driver log books or black box data for crashes involving commercial vehicles.

Contact Us to Request a Free Consultation with an Experienced Manhattan Car Accident Lawyer Today

At the Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C., you can rely on a personalized approach that always keeps you up to date with open lines of communication. We know that every case is unique, as we are prepared to advocate for you with dedicated, tailored attention. We also handle your case in its entirety; do not worry about being bounced around from attorney to attorney, trying to re-explain your situation. To discuss your case with an experienced car accident attorney in Manhattan, you know exactly where to find us.

Contact us now at 917-924-9790 since time is of the essence to investigate, file, and obtain a full and fair treatment for your accident claim.