August is National Traffic Awareness Month—a timely reminder of the importance of road safety, especially in a high-traffic city like New York. Whether you’re behind the wheel, on a bike, or crossing the street, accidents can happen in an instant. When they do, victims may be left with serious injuries, financial hardship, and many questions about what to do next.
Traffic collisions are one of the leading causes of accidental injury in New York City. Every day, crashes involve cars, pedestrians, cyclists, and transit vehicles. Many of these incidents are caused by preventable behaviors, such as distracted driving, failure to yield, and speeding through intersections.
Types of Traffic Injuries
Traffic accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, some of which may not be apparent immediately. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue damage
- Fractures and broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Lacerations and internal bleeding
These injuries often require emergency treatment, ongoing rehabilitation, and time away from work—all of which can add financial pressure to an already stressful situation.
What to Do After a Serious Accident
If you’re involved in a crash, it’s essential to take certain steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911 and request emergency medical attention if needed.
- File a police report at the scene, or as soon as possible afterward.
- Document the accident, including photos of vehicles, road conditions, and injuries.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s).
- Seek medical care, even if you feel fine initially.
- Contact a NYC car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
In New York, the no-fault insurance system provides certain benefits—such as medical costs and lost wages—through your own insurer, regardless of fault. However, when injuries are severe, victims may qualify to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a personal injury claim.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
To file a personal injury lawsuit after a crash, you must meet the “serious injury threshold” under New York law. If you do, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable and may have strong claims when struck by negligent drivers. At Sullivan Papain, our attorneys represent individuals injured in all types of traffic injury claims, including pedestrian accidents. We are committed to helping clients recover the full compensation they deserve.