An auto collision can change your life in an instant, leaving you with serious injuries, financial strain, and unanswered questions. Understanding your legal options is crucial to reclaiming control and ensuring that negligent drivers are held accountable for the harm they’ve caused.
At Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C., our Bronx car accident lawyers are committed to serving those injured in car crashes. With years of experience in New York car accident claims, we help our clients pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, and the pain they endure.
If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle collision, call us at (212) 543-1600 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation exploring your rights and legal options.
Key Takeaways
📄 Case Background and Legal Framework
- Motor vehicle accident claims in the Bronx are governed by New York’s no-fault insurance laws, which limit lawsuits unless the injury meets the “serious injury threshold”
- Claims often involve reckless drivers, commercial vehicle operators, and uninsured motorists
- Common case types include:
- Rear-end collisions
- Pedestrian and cyclist injuries
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) crashes
- Bus and truck accidents
- Multi-vehicle pileups on major routes like the Cross Bronx Expressway
🔗 Cases We’re Currently Accepting
- Victims of Bronx auto accidents involving:
- Hospitalization, broken bones, permanent injury, or disfigurement
- Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or long-term disability
- Pedestrians, bicyclists, or rideshare passengers struck by vehicles
- Fatal accidents, including wrongful death claims by surviving family members
📅 Recent Legal Trends & Developments
- Increased focus on accident reconstruction and dashcam footage in proving fault
- NY courts continue to uphold the “serious injury” threshold, but with broader interpretation when medical records are well-documented
- Rideshare and delivery driver cases often involve commercial policy layers and third-party liability disputes
- Surge in claims involving distracted or intoxicated drivers, especially among younger drivers and nighttime accidents
⚖️ The Parties’ Litigation Positions
- Plaintiffs: Seek compensation for economic losses (medical bills, lost wages), pain and suffering, future care needs, and emotional trauma
- Defendants/Insurers: Often challenge the “serious injury” claim, dispute liability, or attempt to limit damages based on pre-existing conditions or gaps in treatment
💰 Settlement Potentials
- Minor soft-tissue injury claims: Typically range from $15,000–$40,000
- Fracture or surgery cases: Can result in settlements of $75,000–$250,000+
- Severe injury or disability cases (TBI, paralysis): Often reach $500,000–$1M+
- Wrongful death: Varies widely depending on age, earnings, and dependents — may exceed $1.5M in some Bronx cases
- Factors affecting settlement: medical documentation, liability clarity, insurance coverage limits, and expert reports
⚠️ Major Concerns / Expectations
- Prompt documentation is critical — medical evaluations within 72 hours of the crash greatly strengthen claims
- No-fault benefits (PIP) must be exhausted before pursuing bodily injury suits unless a serious injury is proven
- Bronx juries are considered plaintiff-friendly, but cases still require strong proof of injury severity and causation
- Legal deadlines (statutes of limitations) vary:
- 3 years for injury
- 2 years for wrongful death
- Shorter notice periods apply for claims against public entities (MTA, NYPD, etc.)
Why Choose a Bronx Car Accident Attorney from Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C.?
Proven Results Representing Injured Clients
We’ve secured millions of dollars in compensation for accident survivors, including cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful deaths. These achievements reflect our relentless pursuit of justice and deep understanding of New York injury law.
Knowledge of New York Traffic Laws and Liability Rules
New York’s no-fault and comparative negligence rules often create challenges in car crash claims. We bring a thorough understanding of these laws to every case. From navigating PIP insurance claims to prosecuting serious injury lawsuits, we ensure legal rules work to your advantage.
Customized Legal Advocacy
Every case deserves a strategy tailored to its unique facts. Whether your injuries demand an out-of-court settlement or court litigation, we adjust our tactics accordingly. Communication, investigation, negotiation, and litigation – we handle it all based on your goals.
Contingency Fee Commitment
You shouldn’t have to worry about affording legal representation on top of other expenses. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis – meaning you don’t pay unless we win compensation for you.
Transparent Communication Throughout Your Case
Legal terms and processes shouldn’t leave you confused. We maintain open lines of communication, answer your questions promptly, and ensure you fully understand your options. Your comfort and confidence are as important as your case results.
Are You Eligible for Compensation After a Bronx Car Accident?
Our Bronx car accident attorneys are here to help break down complex New York No-Fault Insurance laws, assess your case, and guide you through your legal options. We evaluate claims carefully, considering factors like the following to determine your eligibility for filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit:
- Serious injuries exceeding the no-fault threshold. New York law permits claims beyond PIP coverage if you suffer injuries such as broken bones, disfigurement, permanent loss of a body function, or other medically significant impairments, as defined under state guidelines.
- Proof of fault by another party. Establishing negligence or recklessness, such as distracted driving or failing to obey traffic signals, is key to pursuing compensation.
- Timely filing within the statute of limitations. Personal injury claims in New York must be filed within three years of the accident. Waiting too long could jeopardize your ability to seek compensation.
- Availability of supporting evidence. Photos from the accident scene, police reports, witness statements, and medical documentation can all strengthen your claim.
- Impact of comparative negligence. New York’s comparative negligence rule allows partial compensation if you share some fault for the accident. However, understanding how much fault each party carries is critical to determining eligibility.
- Additional liable parties. Beyond the driver at fault, other entities like municipalities or vehicle manufacturers may share liability if issues like poorly maintained roads or mechanical defects contributed to the accident.
- Accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers. If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage, your own uninsured motorist insurance policy may provide additional compensation.
You may be eligible for far greater compensation than initially anticipated. Understanding why and how much begins with a free case evaluation. Contact an experienced Bronx car accident lawyer to learn how we can help you turn uncertainty into a favorable outcome.
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle
Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car crashes in the Bronx. Drivers who fail to fully focus on the road put everyone at risk, and these avoidable incidents often lead to devastating consequences. Our firm is equipped to handle claims involving the following scenarios:
- Drivers using their phones to text, call, or browse while behind the wheel.
- Vehicle operators distracted by eating, grooming, or adjusting navigation systems.
- Accidents caused by drivers interacting with passengers or focusing on events outside their vehicle.
- Multi-car collisions triggered by distracted drivers who fail to stop in time or swerve into other lanes.
Distracted driving injuries can range from whiplash to more severe outcomes like spinal cord damage or brain injuries. Recognizing these behaviors as negligence is essential for holding those responsible accountable for your suffering.
Drunk Driving Collisions
Few traffic offenses pose as much danger as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drunk driving accidents cause significant harm to survivors and often require complex legal strategies to recover compensation. Common scenarios we assist with include:
- Drivers operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the legal limit.
- Accidents where impaired judgment results in reckless speeding or ignoring traffic signals.
- Crashes involving head-on collisions due to erratic lane changes by intoxicated drivers.
- Instances where dram shop liability may apply, such as a bar or restaurant overserving the intoxicated individual.
Drunk driving collisions can leave survivors with life-altering injuries, such as paralysis or traumatic brain injuries. New York’s dram shop laws allow for claims against negligent establishments, ensuring accountability extends beyond the driver.
Hit-and-Run Cases
When a driver flees the scene of an accident, victims are left with medical bills, vehicle damage, and uncertainty about justice being served. While hit-and-run cases present unique challenges, our attorneys know how to take action in these situations:
- Exploring uninsured motorist (UM) coverage to secure financial compensation.
- Combining witness testimonies and traffic camera footage to locate the fleeing party.
- Addressing cases involving pedestrians or cyclists hit by unknown vehicles.
- Maximizing compensation for injuries sustained in rear-end or intersection crashes.
Never assume a hit-and-run incident endlessly complicates your situation. Even in these cases, skilled legal assistance can often achieve financial relief and clarity.
Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end accidents are among the most common collisions and can range from minor property damage to severe, long-term injuries. These crashes are often caused by careless driving behaviors that include:
- Following too closely or tailgating, giving drivers limited time to react.
- Failing to slow down in heavy traffic, leading to chain-reaction collisions.
- Sudden stops where drivers exhibit inattention or delays in braking.
- Weather-related incidents where drivers neglect safe driving practices.
While rear-end crashes are frequently labeled as “minor,” they can have serious impacts, including debilitating back and neck injuries. Proving fault in these cases often involves detailed analysis of the roadway, vehicle positioning, and driver behavior.
T-Bone and Intersection Accidents
Intersections represent a high-risk area for motor vehicle collisions. This is often where reckless decisions and negligence can lead to T-bone accidents and side-impact collisions. Our firm addresses situations such as:
- Failing to yield the right-of-way, particularly at unsigned intersections or left-turn lanes.
- Running red lights or stop signs, hitting vehicles crossing with a valid signal.
- Ignoring pedestrian crossings or failing to account for cyclists.
- Speeding through complex junctions, increasing the likelihood of fatal injuries.
These accidents often result in extensive vehicle damage and severe physical harm, including fractured bones or head trauma. Securing fair compensation for these incidents frequently requires identifying every aspect and cause of driver negligence.
Legal Challenges in Bronx Car Accident Cases and How Our New York Personal Injury Lawyers Address Them
Motor vehicle accident injury claims involve numerous obstacles, but our attorneys work to simplify the process and resolve disputes effectively.
Countering Lowball Insurance Offers
Insurance companies may undervalue your injuries or deny claims outright. We manage all communication with insurers, using negotiation tactics to ensure fair settlements and escalate disputes when necessary.
Establishing Negligence
Proving the other driver’s liability isn’t always straightforward. We analyze physical evidence and collaborate with experts who specialize in accident reconstruction.
Assessing Long-Term Damages
Without legal counsel, you may underestimate the value of your case. Lifelong injuries often involve medical costs, income loss, and chronic pain, which we account for by consulting medical economists and therapists.
Litigating When Necessary
While settlements are common, refusing unfair offers requires fighting in court. Our attorneys are experienced in crafting trial strategies to maximize outcomes.
Types of Compensation Available in Bronx Car Accident Claims
Compensation Through New York’s No-Fault Insurance (PIP)
Under New York’s no-fault insurance laws, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is designed to cover basic economic losses after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. Benefits through PIP include the following:
- Medical expenses: Coverage for necessary medical costs, including emergency care, hospitalization, diagnostic tests, and rehabilitation. PIP typically covers up to $50,000, though higher coverage amounts may be available based on your policy.
- Lost earnings: Compensation for up to 80% of your lost income, capped at $2,000 per month for up to three years following the accident.
- Related out-of-pocket costs: Reimbursement for additional expenses like transportation to medical appointments or specialized home care needed as a result of the accident.
PIP benefits are limited to economic damages and do not consider non-economic losses like pain and suffering. If your injuries are severe and exceed this coverage, you may have the option to pursue additional compensation with the help of our Bronx car accident lawyers.
Compensation Through a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If your injuries meet New York’s serious injury threshold, you may file a lawsuit to recover damages beyond what is available through PIP. Serious injuries, as defined by New York Insurance Law § 5102(d), include the following:
- Bone fractures or breaks
- Permanent loss of use of a body function or mobility
- Significant disfigurement or scarring
- Loss of a fetus
- A medically determined impairment affecting daily activities for 90 days or more within the first six months following the accident.
Through a personal injury lawsuit, you may be eligible to recover both economic and non-economic damages, including the following types of compensation:
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional hardship caused by the accident.
- Future medical care: Recovery for the anticipated lifetime cost of treatments, such as spinal surgeries or ongoing rehabilitation.
- Loss of earning capacity: Compensation for diminished ability to work because of permanent impairments.
- Disability or scarring: Acknowledgment of permanent changes to your appearance or mobility.
Navigating New York’s complex no-fault system and understanding how to pursue additional damages through a lawsuit requires professional guidance. Working with experienced legal counsel ensures every aspect of your claim is fully explored, giving you the best chance to recover the maximum compensation you deserve.
Injured in a Bronx Car Collision? Contact Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. For COmprehensive and Compassionate Legal Support
Bronx auto accidents affect your finances, career, and quality of life. At Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C., we take pride in navigating these difficulties on behalf of Bronx car accident survivors. With decades of dedicated advocacy, our attorneys are here to fight for your full financial recovery.
Call (212) 543-1600 or use our secure online form for a free consultation with an experienced Bronx car accident lawyer to explore your rights and legal options for pursuing justice after someone else’s negligent actions cause you harm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly should I contact an attorney after my auto collision?
It’s best to speak with a Bronx car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Early action ensures evidence isn’t lost, deadlines are met, and insurers don’t pressure you into unfavorable agreements.
Can I pursue compensation if I was partially at fault?
New York’s comparative negligence statute allows you to recover damages even if you share responsibility for the crash. Our personal injury attorneys in the Bronx can help fight to reduce any unfair level of blame or fault assigned to you in an effort to maximize the compensation you recover.
How long does it take to resolve a car accident claim?
Simple cases may settle quickly, while complex ones involving high damages or unclear liability can take longer. We aim to balance speed with securing compensation that appropriately reflects your injuries.
Nothing but praise for Maggiano, DiGirolamo, and Lizzi. I have never seen such a fantastic display of teamwork at all levels of the firm. (As an aisde, everyone one who works at the firm was extremely courteous and kind – character traits that one would not typically associate with a law firm. )
Furthermore, the legal results brought about by Mr. Maggiano’s tireless litigation efforts on our behalf were very fair and just. If you ever find yourself in a car accident, be sure to consult Maggiano, DiGirolamo, and Lizzi.
It was a pleasure having Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi take on my case. After a car accident left me jobless for several months, they helped get me back on my feet. They went above and beyond the call of duty!
I have been a practicing personal injury lawyer in New Jersey for over twenty years. I knew Michael Maggiano by reputation and when I was involved in an automobile myself I went to him to handle my case. I learned that the reputation was well founded and he has an outstanding law firm, very efficient and professional. He and his staff were always available and helpful during every step of the process and the resultant settlement was excellent. I could not recommend Mr. Maggiano and his firm more highly. Thank you to all at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi .
