Why You Need a Long Island Car
Accident Lawyer

Through a comprehensive understanding of state and local traffic laws, our savvy attorneys will fight to get you the cash award you deserve.  Contact The Platta Law Firm today at 212-514-5100 for a FREE consultation.

Our Long Island Car Accident Lawyers Know the Dangers of Driving on the Island

Long Island is one of the largest suburban areas in the United States. Stretching almost 120 miles, the counties of Nassau and Suffolk are home to nearly three million people. Add to that the many people driving out to jobs, going shopping, visiting beaches and other destinations, you have some of the busiest and most dangerous roadways in the region.

Long Island has also gained a reputation over the years for being a dangerous place to drive. It is home to some of the most traffic-congested roadways in New York. The Long Island Expressway (LIE or I-495) is often referred to as the “world’s longest parking lot.” The Sunrise Highway, and Northern and Southern State Parkways are other notorious roadways where high speeds, sudden merges, and traffic volume create a dangerous driving environment.

Furthermore, specific intersections and junctions on Long Island increase the risks for motorists. The blend of pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicular traffic, combined with aging infrastructure and poor weather, creates a recipe for frequent auto accidents. As a result, countless collisions take place every day on Long Island roads.

Most Hazardous Long Island Roadways

According to crash statistics from the Tri-State Transportation Campaign, the most hazardous Long Island roads, highways, parkways, and turnpikes on Long Island include:

• The Long Island Expressway (I-495): This major highway stretching approximately 71 miles from Queens to Riverhead in Suffolk County is one of the busiest in the state. The heavy traffic and numerous on and off-ramps result in a high number of accidents each year.
• Hempstead Turnpike/ Route 24: A fast-paced, 16-mile stretch in dire need of asphalt repairs.
• Jericho Turnpike/Middle Country Road/SR 25: Moving a high volume of traffic through commercial and residential neighborhoods, this may be the most dangerous roadway in the tri-state area.
• Sunrise Highway/SR 27/CR-39/Montauk Highway: Frequent crashes occur here due to limited sidewalk availability, subpar road conditions, and few streetlights to keep the roads well lit.

Other dangerous Long Island roads drivers should be especially cautious using:

• Merrick Road (from Merrick to East Massapequa)
• New Hyde Park Road & Northern State Parkway
• Old Country Road & Wantagh Parkway
• State Route 110 (Amityville to Huntington)

Accidents are not just limited to civilian automobiles. Buses, commercial trucks, cabs, motorcycles, bicyclists, and pedestrians are affected by collisions too. Driving with extra caution while navigating these roads may help prevent a crash.

Magnitude of Long Island Car Accidents

The number of vehicle accidents in all of Long Island is daunting. In Suffolk County alone there were more than 42,000 car wrecks in 2019 according to the New York State DMV. As a result of these accidents:

• 2,838 people endured moderate to severe injuries requiring a visit to the ER or hospitalization
• 115 deaths transpired

What to Do After a Long Island Car Accident

Experiencing an auto accident on Long Island can be distressing, but knowing the appropriate steps to take afterwards can make a huge difference in safeguarding your rights and ensuring a smooth recovery process.

If you find yourself involved in a Long Island accident, be sure to take the following steps:

Get Safe & Get Medical Help

• Safety First: If it’s safe, move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic to a secure location. Switch on hazard lights to warn other drivers.
• Check for Injuries: Determine if you or any passengers have sustained injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s vital to seek medical attention; some injuries may not be apparent right away.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s wise to see a doctor. Some injuries may manifest symptoms later. Ensure all medical visits and treatments are documented.

Remember, your well-being is the main priority after your Long Island car accident. Once you’ve prioritized your safety, you can then proceed with the necessary steps to protect your rights and interests.

Steps to Strengthen Your Long Island Accident Case

Filing a police report after a car accident on Long Island serves as an official record of the incident, detailing the events as they transpired and including statements from all parties involved. This report often proves indispensable when dealing with insurance companies, as it provides a neutral third-party account of the accident. Beyond this, taking the following steps is crucial.

• Exchange Information: Obtain the name, address, phone number, insurance details, and license plate number of all parties involved. If there are witnesses, gather their contact details as well.
• Document the Scene: If possible, take photographs and video of the Long Island accident scene from multiple angles, capturing damage to vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signals or signs.
• Avoid Admissions: It’s natural to want to apologize or discuss the accident, but it’s vital not to admit fault at the scene. Conversations can be misconstrued, and admissions can impact your legal rights and insurance claims.
• Contact Your Insurance: Notify your insurance company about your Long Island car accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the facts and cooperate, but avoid giving recorded statements without legal advice.
• Consult an Attorney: Especially in cases with significant injuries or damage, it’s advisable to consult with a Long Island car accident lawyer. They can guide you through the complexities of the legal process and advocate on your behalf.
• Maintain Records: Keep a folder with all accident-related documents including medical bills, repair estimates, police reports, and any correspondence with insurance companies or lawyers.
• Don’t Deny Injuries: You shouldn’t tell anyone at the scene that you’re not hurt, as the shock of being in an accident may make you not realize the extent of your injuries.

Such data helps to ensure that any subsequent legal or insurance processes proceed smoothly, providing clarity, evidence, and context. In the aftermath of a Long Island car accident, when memories can become blurred or details forgotten, having these thorough records becomes vital for protection and recourse.

Common Injuries Suffered from an Auto Accident

Traffic accidents on Long Island are notorious, and unfortunately, a common occurrence. Different types of accidents can lead to varying injuries such as those listed below.

• Rear-End Collisions: Often result in whiplash, back injuries, and concussions.
• T-Bone Accidents: Can lead to broken bones, internal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.
• Hit and Runs: Emotional trauma, fractures, and sometimes fatal injuries.
• Rollovers: Can result in severe injuries, including paralysis and loss of limbs.

If you’ve been in a car accident, it is vital to go to the nearest hospital to check for injuries. This can be very important for your case. On Long Island, you can go to:

• NYU Langone Long Island Cardiac Care
• Long Island Community Hospital
• Long Island Jewish Valley Stream

If you need a police report, visit the nearest precinct, one of which could be:

• Hempstead Police Department
• Suffolk County Police Department
• Nassau County Police Department

For fire-related incidents, be sure to visit one of Long Island’s Engine Rooms:

• Middle Island Fire Department
• FDNY Engine 258/Ladder 115
• Island Park Fire Department

As for road safety, there is no better way to brush up your skills or prepare a young driver than driving defense classes. Below are some of the many that Long Island has to offer:

• Long Island Driving School
  176 Forest Ave, Glen Cove, NY 11576
• Gersh Academy Drivers Education
  21 Sweet Hollow Rd, Huntington, NY 11743
• All Suffolk Auto School
  20 Medford Ave, Ste 104, Patchogue, NY 11772
• Defensive Driving School
  156 Wheeler Road, Central Islip, NY 11722

Why Choose Our Long Island Car Accident Lawyers?

• Expertise: With decades of combined experience, our dedicated team has seen it all. From minor fender benders to severe collisions causing catastrophic injuries, we know how to navigate the intricate legalities and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
• Personalized Approach: Every accident on Long Island and every client is unique. We listen to your story, understand the intricacies, and devise a strategy tailored to your specific needs.
• No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you owe us nothing unless we secure a settlement or win your case.

The Help You Need After Your Long Island Car Accident

The aftermath of an auto collision can be devastating. Beyond the physical pain, victims often face overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. But you don’t have to face it alone. A highly-skilled Long Island car accident lawyer will fight for you every step of the way by providing:

• Case Evaluation: A free, no-obligation consultation to discuss the details of your Long Island accident and advise on the best course of action.
• Investigation: Your Long Island car accident lawyer will collect evidence, communicate with law enforcement, and consult with experts to build a strong case.
• Representation: From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, your attorney is always fighting for your best interests.
• A Strong Case for Maximizing Compensation: Our legal team will work tirelessly to ensure you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages incurred.

FAQ About Long Island Auto Accidents

What should I do immediately after being involved in a car accident on Long Island?

Prioritize safety. Ensure everyone is okay and move the vehicles to a safe spot if possible. Turn on hazard lights, check for injuries, and call 911 if there are any serious injuries or if the scene presents a hazard.

Is it mandatory to file a police report for all car accidents on Long Island?

While not all minor accidents require a police report, it’s strongly advised to file one for significant property damage, injuries, or if any driver seems impaired.

A police report can serve as valuable documentation when dealing with insurance claims or potential legal issues.

How important is it to gather witness statements and contact information at the scene of the accident?

Very important. Witnesses and expert witnesses can provide an unbiased account of your Long Island car accident, which can be crucial when determining fault. Having their statements and contact information can help support your claim with insurance companies or in court.

What should I be aware of when discussing the accident at the scene or with an insurance company afterward?

Avoid admitting fault or making definitive statements about the accident’s cause. It’s natural to feel a range of emotions, but admissions can affect your legal rights and insurance claims. When speaking with insurance companies, be factual, but consider consulting with an attorney before giving any recorded statements.

How soon after the incident should I contact a Long Island car accident lawyer?

The sooner, the better. Evidence can be lost, and witnesses’ memories can fade. Contacting us immediately ensures that we can start building a robust case from day one.

How long will my case take?

Every case is different. While some can be settled in a matter of months, others might take years, especially if they go to trial. We strive to resolve cases as swiftly as possible, always prioritizing your best interests.

Take Action for Your Long Island Car Accident

Your path to justice and recovery starts here. Don’t let the negligence of another leave you with mounting bills and unanswered questions. Let our Long Island Car Accident Lawyer team fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 212-514-5100 for a Free Consultation.

Long Island Neighborhoods We Serve

Nassau
Hempstead, North Hempstead, and Oyster Bay

Suffolk

Babylon, Brookhaven, East Hampton, Huntington, Islip, Riverhead, Shelter Island, Smithtown, Southampton and Southold

Rest of Long Island With More Than 10,000 Residents

Babylon, Baldwin, Bay Shore, Bethpage, Commack, Dix Hills, East Rockaway, Elwood, Floral Park, Freeport, Garden City, Hempstead Village, Hicksville, Huntington, Kings Park, Lake Grove, Levittown, Lindenhurst, Lynbrook, Massapequa, Massapequa Park, Merrick, Mineola, Oceanside, Riverhead, Rockville Centre, Patchogue, Uniondale, Valley Stream, Wantagh, Westbury, and West Islip.