Car Accident Lawyer in NYC

With more than 20 years of experience, Ethan D. Irwin, Esq. navigates every aspect of car accident litigation, from working with doctors and insurance companies to representing you in court. Our dedicated team goes above and beyond to support you every step of the way.

Rated by Super Lawyers Ethan D. Irwin.

Meet Your Attorney – Ethan D. Irwin, Esq.

Ethan D. Irwin is the owner of The Irwin Law Firm, PLLC and has been successfully practicing civil litigation for over 20 years, conducting trials in the Courts of the City of New York, as well as Nassau and Suffolk Counties. He has successfully prosecuted countless personal injury lawsuits.

Achievement Highlights:
Is honored as a top personal injury and accident attorney by Super Lawyers
Belongs to New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers and NYSTLA
Admitted to practice law in New York State Courts, and the Eastern and Southern Federal District Courts
Served honorably in the United States Marine Corps
Is recognized as a Lawyer of Distinction and Ten Best Attorney

 

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Lawyer of distinction 2023 icon.

“One of the best attorneys I’ve ever met since I came to this country”

Our Clients Share Their Experiences

“He takes care of everything that you don’t know. Explains everything you don’t know. Literally updates you for every progress of case & check every other day if there’re any questions. The best part is he finished my case in 6 months. His office staff is friendly & always respectful when you call. Thank you Mr. Ethan”
N. L. , Car Accident Case, 2024

What Type of Accident Were You In?

NEGLIGENCE
There was wrongdoing that caused the accident such as speeding, texting and driving, or driving through traffic signals. Police reports, photographs, and video can be significant aspects to helping a case if it goes to trial.

How We Help:
We start by investigating the accident and proving that the at-fault driver was negligent.

We negotiate with your insurance company and handle all communications for maximum compensation and peace-of-mind.

If necessary, we represent you in court and highlight liability and damages persuasively.

RECKLESS DRIVER
The other driver had no regard for the safety of others on the road – exhibiting road rage, weaving through traffic, speeding – which can cause severe accidents and injuries. If you have been injured, it’s important to see a doctor right away and document your injury.

How We Help:
A reckless driver case can leave you with serious injuries and financial burdens.

We gather evidence to prove recklessness and negotiate with your insurance company for maximum compensation.

If necessary, we file a lawsuit and present a strong case in court to hold the at-fault driver accountable and secure the maximum award.

INTENTIONAL MISCONDUCT
The other person was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are involved in an auto accident and suspect the other driver was under the influence, it is important to alert the police to include this information in the official accident report and review this with your accident attorney.

How We Help:
Intentional misconduct cases involve more severe actions and victims are entitled to higher damages.

We gather strong evidence to prove intentional misconduct and the at-fault driver accountable.

Many insurance companies resist paying out in these cases so we fight claim denials and negotiate a fair settlement.

If necessary, we file a lawsuit and represent you in court with a strong case that can lead to criminal and civil charges.

How Do I Know if I Have a Legal Case?

☑️   The other party was negligent and at-fault.
☑️   You were seriously injured and therefore qualify under New York’s No-Fault Insurance Law.
☑️   Your vehicle was damaged and/or you have lost income or other economic damages.

How We Helped SC Determine That They Had a Case

Case Study: Negligence

Client talking on the phone in front of a car accident.

Location: Queens, NY

Details:
The client’s vehicle was rear-ended by another vehicle.

Why SC Chose Us:
SC came to us through a referral from her family’s attorney, who strongly recommended our firm because of our excellent reputation.

How We Helped:
SC had never been in a car accident before, so Ethan and The Irwin Law Firm handled everything – from the car insurance claim, to assisting with locating doctors, and even the physical therapy office. The Irwin Law Firm was able to get SC compensation of $1,300,000 for her injuries.

How Can a Lawyer Help?

1. INVESTIGATION
We start by investigating the accident and proving that the at-fault driver was negligent.

2. NEGOTIATION
We negotiate with your insurance company and handle all communications for maximum compensation and peace-of-mind.

3. REPRESENTATION
When necessary, we represent you in court and persuasively highlight the other driver’s liability and damages.

4. MAXIMUM COMPENSATION
We perform an accurate injury assessment and identify all avenues of compensation to ensure you receive maximum compensation.

5. LEGAL RIGHTS
We simplify and clarify the legal process and insurance coverage, providing a clear understanding of New York’s specific laws. Our team offers expert guidance on how to strengthen your case and presents you with the best options to move forward.

6. CLARITY
We offer clarity during this challenging time by simplifying legal jargon and maintaining consistent communication, so you are always informed about what to expect at each stage. Our team provides a thorough and honest assessment of your case and its value, including discussion of potential outcomes, ensuring you have a clear understanding every step of the way.

Choosing the Right Car Accident Lawyer

Woman looking at her laptop researching lawyers in NYC.

CLIENT REVIEWS
Read past client reviews and case studies. Look for consistent positive feedback and results. Read our reviews.

EXPERIENCE
Research lawyers who specialize in car accident and personal injury cases. Make sure they are licensed with a good track record in cases similar to yours.

INITIAL CONSULTATION
Schedule a free consultation and speak directly with the attorney handling your case. This is your opportunity to see if they explain legal terms clearly and take the time to listen to your concerns.

FEE STRUCTURE
Ask about the fee structure and potential extra expenses throughout the case.

COMMUNICATION AND AVAILABILITY
Do they respond quickly to phone calls and emails? Can they explain the process in simple terms? Ask how often you’ll receive updates about your case.

RESOURCES
Does the law firm have a good support team of paralegals, investigators, and medical experts?

COURTROOM EXPERIENCE
If a settlement is not possible, your lawyer should be confident in the courtroom. Inquire about their trial win rate and success in negotiations to ensure you have strong representation.

GO WITH YOUR INSTINCT
Choose someone who makes you feel heard, confident, and informed. They should be professional and offer realistic expectations.

Women on table talking to someone on the phone with a notebook in foreground.

What to Do After a Car Accident

IMMEDIATELY
☑️  Report the accident to your insurance and DMV
☑️  Do not admit fault
☑️  Check for injuries
☑️  Document the scene
☑️  Exchange information with the other driver

DAYS FOLLOWING THE ACCIDENT
☑️  If you’re injured, see a doctor and keep all records
☑️  Get legal advice
☑️  Keep detailed records of insurance info, expenses and relevant contacts
☑️  Obtain a copy of the police report from the NYPD website

Settlement icon with a person and money sign.

Settlements and Compensation

ABOUT SETTLEMENTS
A settlement is an agreement to resolve a claim without going to trial.

Most cases are resolved through settlement, as both parties typically have a strong incentive to avoid the expense, time, and uncertainty that come with a trial.

ABOUT COMPENSATION
The following factors impact compensation amounts:
Severity of injuries
Medical treatment
Lost income
Pain and suffering
Insurance policy limits

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Every case is different, and some cases are resolved quicker than others, but cases can last from a few months to a few years.

Lawsuit icon with a gavel.

Lawsuits and Compensation

ABOUT LAWSUITS
Car accidents are common in NYC, but not all cases can be settled through insurance claims.

Consulting a car accident lawyer is necessary to evaluate the case’s viability based on injuries, damages, and liability. Then, the lawyer drafts a legal complaint to file in the appropriate New York State or Federal court.

In court testimony from involved parties and witnesses take place next and evidence and documents are shared. Many cases get resolved as a result of settlement discussions or mediation (pre-trial negotiations). A neutral third party may facilitate a settlement.

If a settlement cannot be reached, the trial process begins. From jury selection to verdict, your lawyer will represent and argue your case in court.

ABOUT COMPENSATION
Types of compensation you can seek are:
Economic damages
Non-economic damages
Punitive damages

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
A trial, from jury selection through verdict, can take between a week to a couple months depending on the court’s schedule and case complexity.

Se Habla Español

Providing compassionate and comprehensive service in Spanish, because everyone deserves to be heard and understood.

New York Police Department building.

Resources for Car Accident Victims in NYC

NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT (NYPD)
FAQs for Critical/Fatal Injury Collisions

NEW YORK CITY 311 VEHICLE ACCIDENT
Download report of motor vehicle accident form

NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES
Information on what to do when you’re in a traffic crash

NYPD COLLISION REPORT RETRIEVAL PORTAL
Request a copy of your collision report

What to Expect When You Contact Us

We ensure you understand your rights and options in order to make an informed decision.

Free No Obligation Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
Courtesy and Respectful Assistance
Clearly Communicating the Legal Process
Explaining the Fee Structure
Advice About Next Steps

Our Services

Our Personal Injury Focused Practice Areas

Brooklyn Car Accident Lawyer

Queens Car Accident Lawyer

Bronx Car Accident Lawyer

Manhattan Car Accident Lawyer

Nassau County Car Accident Lawyer

Suffolk County Car Accident Lawyer

Contact The Irwin Law Firm

For a free personalized consultation

Our team stands ready to address your concerns and talk about your case. Take the first step towards justice.

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