Our experienced car accident attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that serious accidents inflict on victims and their families. With over $2 billion in total recoveries and more than 23 years of experience, we have the resources, expertise, and determination to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.

Schedule an appointment online or give us a call for your free consultation today: (516) 466-6500.

Table Of Contents

    Why Choose Parker Waichman LLP For Your Car Accident Case

    Parker Waichman LLP has recovered over $2 billion for injured victims across all practice areas. Our car accident attorneys bring decades of experience, proven trial skills, and a commitment to aggressive advocacy on behalf of our clients.

    Credentials and Recognition

    Founding Partner Jerrold S. Parker brings 40+ years of legal experience and holds an AV Preeminent 5.0 rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest possible rating for legal ability and ethical standards. He has been recognized in Best Lawyers in America for Mass Tort Litigation and Class Actions continuously from 2010-2026. His profile on Super Lawyers reflects his recognition as a leading personal injury attorney.

    Partner Melanie H. Muhlstock has been named to The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers List annually since 2014, recognizing her exceptional trial skills and case results. Her inclusion on this prestigious list demonstrates her commitment to trial excellence and client advocacy.

    Partner Jason S. Goldstein is recognized in Best Lawyers in America and listed on Super Lawyers, reflecting his expertise in personal injury and mass tort litigation.

    Our firm has earned a Five Dragon Rating from Law Dragon, representing the highest possible designation for litigation excellence, awarded for our demonstrated expertise in complex litigation. We maintain recognition on Million Dollar Trial Lawyers and Elite Litigators for our track record of substantial verdicts and settlements.

    U.S. News & World Report Best Law Firms recognition for Mass Tort Litigation and Class Actions practice is based on client feedback, peer recommendations, and demonstrated success. Our Better Business Bureau Accreditation with an A+ rating since August 2021 reflects our commitment to ethical business practices and client service.

    Our team includes experienced trial attorneys, senior litigation counsel, and specialists in personal injury and mass tort litigation. We maintain seven office locations across New York, New Jersey, and Florida, allowing us to serve clients throughout the country. We utilize proprietary case management technology and maintain relationships with leading medical experts, economists, and investigators.

    Fighting for Car Accident Victims Nationwide

    Parker Waichman LLP has offices nationwide, making it easy to access top-tier legal help no matter where you are. Our personal injury law firm is familiar with regional laws and courts, giving you a strategic advantage.

    Ready to discuss your car accident case? Contact our nearest office today for a free consultation. Call now (516) 466-6500 or schedule an appointment online for a free consultation.

    Why You Need a Car Accident Law Firm on Your Side

    Car accidents are among the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. When a negligent driver causes an accident, victims often face overwhelming medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and permanent disability. Insurance companies prioritize their profits over your recovery, and they employ sophisticated tactics to pressure injured victims into accepting inadequate settlements.

    Attempting to handle a car accident claim alone puts you at a significant disadvantage. Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators who understand how to minimize payouts. They may request recorded statements, demand medical records, or suggest that your injuries are less severe than they actually are. Without legal representation, you risk accepting a settlement that fails to cover your actual damages.

    A car accident attorney levels the playing field. We investigate the accident thoroughly, gather evidence, consult with medical experts, and build a compelling case that demonstrates the full extent of your injuries and losses. We handle all communications with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), proper legal representation significantly improves settlement outcomes for injured victims.

    Catastrophic Injuries and Wrongful Death

    Car accidents can result in life-altering injuries that require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries that affect cognitive function, memory, and personality. Spinal cord injuries can cause partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong assistance with daily activities. Internal bleeding, organ damage, and severe burns demand emergency treatment and extended hospitalization.

    In the most tragic cases, car accidents result in wrongful death. Families lose breadwinners, children lose parents, and communities lose valued members. Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to recover damages for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the emotional devastation of losing a loved one. Our wrongful death attorneys have recovered substantial compensation for grieving families.

    Free Consultation

    Parker Waichman LLP

    Untitled(Required)

    How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
    How often will we communicate?
    Case Story: Representing the family of a pile-up crash victim
    PRACTICE AREAS
    Contact Us Today

    If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident or have been injured by another party in some other way, we are here to stand up for your rights. Our personal injury attorneys have been representing injury victims and their families in Long Island and throughout the nation since the early 1980s.

    Types of Car Accidents We Handle

    Parker Waichman LLP represents victims in all types of motor vehicle accidents. Our attorneys have extensive experience with the unique legal and factual issues that arise in different accident scenarios.

    Drunk Driving Accidents: Impaired drivers cause catastrophic collisions that result in severe injuries and deaths. We pursue claims against intoxicated drivers and hold bars and establishments liable for over-serving alcohol under dram shop laws. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alcohol-impaired driving fatalities account for approximately one-third of all traffic deaths. Our drunk driving accident attorneys have successfully recovered millions for victims of impaired drivers.

    Uninsured Motorist Accidents: When an at-fault driver lacks insurance coverage, we pursue claims through your own uninsured motorist coverage or identify other responsible parties who can compensate you for your injuries. Uninsured motorist claims require specialized knowledge of insurance policy language and coverage limits.

    Rideshare Accidents: Uber and Lyft accidents involve complex liability issues, multiple insurance policies, and corporate defendants. We navigate these complications to ensure you receive full compensation. Rideshare accident claims demand expertise in both personal injury law and transportation network company regulations.

    Distracted Driving Accidents: Drivers who text, use social media, eat, or engage in other distracting activities cause preventable accidents. We hold distracted drivers accountable and pursue punitive damages when appropriate. Distracted driving cases often involve cell phone records and vehicle data analysis.

    Injuries and Damages from Car Accidents

    Car accident victims suffer a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to catastrophic, life-altering conditions. The damages you can recover depend on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident. Understanding the full scope of recoverable damages is essential to ensuring fair compensation.

    Common Injuries

    • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions
    • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
    • Broken bones and fractures
    • Internal injuries and bleeding
    • Disfigurement and scarring
    • Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
    • Psychological trauma and PTSD

    Recoverable Damages

    Economic damages compensate you for quantifiable financial losses, including medical expenses, surgical costs, rehabilitation and therapy, lost wages and earning capacity, and future medical care. Non-economic damages address the non-financial impact of your injuries, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium. In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. The American Bar Association provides guidance on calculating comprehensive damages in personal injury cases.

    How We Build Your Car Accident Claim

    Our approach to car accident cases combines thorough investigation, expert analysis, and aggressive advocacy. We follow a systematic process designed to maximize your recovery.

    Immediate Investigation: We begin by investigating the accident scene, collecting photographs, obtaining police reports, and identifying witnesses. Early investigation preserves crucial evidence before it disappears. Our investigators work with accident reconstruction experts to establish liability and causation.

    Medical Expert Consultation: We work with medical professionals to document your injuries, establish the connection between the accident and your medical conditions, and project future medical needs and costs. Our network of medical experts includes physicians, surgeons, and rehabilitation specialists.

    Insurance Policy Analysis: We review all available insurance policies, including your own coverage, the at-fault driver’s coverage, and any additional policies that might apply. We identify all potential sources of compensation. Understanding insurance coverage limits is critical to maximizing your recovery.

    Liability Determination: We analyze the facts and applicable law to establish liability. We determine whether the other driver violated traffic laws, failed to exercise reasonable care, or engaged in reckless conduct. Our personal injury attorneys apply decades of experience to complex liability questions.

    Settlement Negotiation: We present a comprehensive demand package to the insurance company, supported by medical evidence, economic analysis, and legal arguments. We negotiate aggressively to achieve a fair settlement. Our track record demonstrates our ability to secure substantial settlements for injured clients.

    Trial Preparation: If the insurance company refuses to offer adequate compensation, we prepare your case for trial. We develop trial strategy, prepare witnesses, and present compelling evidence to a jury. Our trial attorneys have successfully litigated thousands of personal injury cases before juries throughout the country.

    Understanding Your Legal Rights

    California law provides important protections for car accident victims. Understanding these legal principles helps you appreciate the value of your claim and the importance of legal representation.

    Statute of Limitations: You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is critical—if you miss it, you lose your right to recover compensation. We ensure that your claim is filed within this timeframe. Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, this two-year period is strictly enforced. Contacting a car accident lawyer immediately after your accident protects your legal rights.

    Pure Comparative Negligence: California follows a pure comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you can recover $80,000. Our personal injury lawyers work to minimize your percentage of fault and maximize your recovery.

    At-Fault Insurance System: California is an at-fault state, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages. The at-fault driver’s insurance company must compensate injured victims. This system differs from no-fault states and affects how car accident claims are pursued.

    Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault driver lacks insurance or carries insufficient coverage, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage provides protection. We help you pursue these claims and ensure you receive full compensation from all available sources.

    Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct—such as drunk driving—you may recover punitive damages designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Under California Civil Code § 3294, punitive damages are available in appropriate circumstances.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?

    Parker Waichman LLP represents car accident victims on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront fees, and we only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery, aligned with your success. This arrangement ensures that we are motivated to maximize your compensation. Learn more about our fee structure and how we can help.

    What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in California?

    You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is absolute—if you miss it, you lose your right to recover compensation. We recommend contacting a car accident attorney immediately after an accident to ensure your claim is filed timely and your rights are protected.

    Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?

    Yes. California follows a pure comparative negligence system, allowing you to recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 25% at fault and your damages total $80,000, you can recover $60,000. Our personal injury attorneys work to minimize your percentage of fault and maximize your recovery.

    How long does a car accident case typically take to resolve?

    The timeline depends on the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate. Simple cases may settle within months, while complex cases involving serious injuries may take one to two years or longer. We keep you informed throughout the process and work efficiently to resolve your case. Our experienced attorneys have handled cases of all complexity levels.

    What damages can I recover in a car accident claim?

    You can recover economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, future medical care) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life). In cases involving gross negligence or recklessness, punitive damages may be available. We evaluate all available damages and pursue maximum compensation.

    Get Your Free Consultation Today

    If you have been injured in a car accident, you deserve experienced legal representation. Parker Waichman LLP offers free consultations to discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

    Contact Parker Waichman LLP today to schedule your free consultation. Call us at (516) 466-6500 or request a consultation online. Our experienced car accident attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

    Free Consultation

    Parker Waichman LLP

    Untitled(Required)

    • Top 50 Jury Verdicts
    • Billion Dollar Trial Lawyers Badge
    • AVVO 9.8 Rating
    • BBB Accrideted
    • Best Lawyers 2020
    • Bar Registrar Preeminent Lawyers
    • SuperLawyers
    Parker Waichman Reviews

    4.8 from 549 Reviews

    Related Testimonials

    Our law firm is ready to represent you in your injury case. We’ve helped many New York residents as well as those needing help nationwide. Contact our team for a free case consultation today.

    Star Icon

    I had a great experience with them , everyone was very helpful and sweet.

    Michelle Murphy

    4 months ago

    Google Icon
    Star Icon

    Zarahi was very professional and very Quick and very knowledgeable i realy appreciated her patience and perseverance she Deserves 100 stars 🌟 but since i can only send 5 i Guess i will just have to send that truly yours Rashine Downs

    Kush Three

    6 months ago

    Google Icon
    Star Icon

    VERY NICE WORK PLACE THEY HAVE BEEN GOOD TO MY MOM

    Whitney Brinson

    5 years ago

    Google Icon
    Star Icon

    They treated me with tender love and care

    Terrell Weaver

    2 months ago

    Google Icon
    Star Icon

    Wonderful people. They made the whole process if dealing with a gov’t agency so easy. Special compliments to Gina Viti

    Michael Ross

    2 months ago

    Google Icon
    Star Icon

    I’m a 9/11 first responder, and I can honestly say that Parker Waichman made me feel like they had my best interest in my VCF case. Ms Candalino & Ms Viti are top notch in my book. I was constantly informed on the status of my case. I would definitely recommend Parker Waichman LLP to family and friends.

    D D

    6 years ago

    Google Icon
    We Have Many Locations To Serve You
    Serving Mass Tort Clients Nationally

    We have the experience and the skilled litigators to win your case. Contact us and speak with a real attorney who can help you.

    Parker Waichman LLP

    6 Harbor Park Drive

    Port Washington, NY 11050

    (516) 466-6500

    Parker Waichman LLP

    201 Old Country Road – Suite 145

    Melville, NY 11747

    (631) 390-0800

    Parker Waichman LLP

    59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor

    New York, NY 10038

    (212) 267-6700

    Parker Waichman LLP

    118-35 Queens Boulevard, Suite 400

    Forest Hills, NY 11375

    (718) 469-6900

    Parker Waichman LLP

    300 Cadman Plaza West

    One Pierrepont Plaza, 12th Floor

    Brooklyn, NY 11201

    (718) 554-8055

    Parker Waichman LLP

    27299 Riverview Center Boulevard, Suite 108

    Bonita Springs, FL 34134

    (239) 390-1000

    Parker Waichman LLP

    80 Main St #265

    West Orange, NJ 07052

    (973) 323-3603
    Nationwide Service

    We handle mass torts cases nationwide. Please contact our office to learn more.

    Call Us