New York Sees Highest Increase in Car Accidents Nationwide

Why Traffic Crash Rates Are Rising in New York When They’re Dropping Everywhere Else.

Recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurify has uncovered a disturbing trend: New York is one of only two states where car accidents increased between 2023 and 2024. While crash rates declined in 48 states, New York experienced a 20 percent increase in car accidents, the largest spike in the country. Only Vermont also saw an increase, and by just 2 percent.

This sharp rise in traffic incidents across the Empire State has raised serious questions about road safety, infrastructure, and driver behavior. Nearly 30,000 people died in motor vehicle accidents nationwide during the first nine months of 2024. While other states are making progress, New York’s worsening numbers point to systemic issues that continue to put drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians at risk.

Why Are Car Accidents Increasing in New York While Declining Elsewhere?

Researchers and traffic analysts are still trying to determine why New York is moving in the opposite direction from the rest of the country. Several likely factors are being considered:

• Congested Urban Roadways: With millions of vehicles crowding cities like New York City, congestion leads to more rear-end collisions, side-swipes, and pedestrian impacts.
• Distracted Driving: Cell phone use behind the wheel remains a major concern throughout the state, especially in densely populated regions.
• Aggressive Driving and Speeding: Increased road rage and excessive speed may be linked to post-pandemic driving habits and reduced law enforcement presence on some roads.
• Insufficient Traffic Enforcement: Reduced police patrols or automated enforcement in some areas may lead drivers to ignore traffic rules.
• Tourism and Out-of-State Drivers: New York remains a top destination, and unfamiliar drivers may contribute to crashes.

The combination of population density, infrastructure challenges, and evolving driving behavior appears to be fueling the statewide surge in crashes.

Where Are Accidents Happening Most in New York?

The New York State Comptroller’s office tracks regional vehicle fatality rates, measuring deaths per 100,000 residents. Although exact 2024 regional data is still emerging, prior years show a troubling pattern:

• New York City: Despite Vision Zero efforts, crashes involving pedestrians and cyclists continue to occur at high rates, especially in boroughs like Brooklyn and the Bronx.
• Upstate Counties: Areas such as Erie, Monroe, and Onondaga counties have also reported elevated crash rates, particularly in bad weather conditions.
• Long Island: Heavily trafficked roadways like the Long Island Expressway and Sunrise Highway see frequent collisions.

These hot spots highlight the need for stronger enforcement, road maintenance, and public safety campaigns tailored to each region’s unique risk factors.

Car Brands Most Frequently Involved in Accidents in 2024

The Insurify study also found that certain car brands are disproportionately represented in accident reports. While this data reflects national trends, it’s important for New York drivers to take note of vehicle safety features and driving behavior:

• Brands with high accident rates may have younger or more aggressive drivers.
• Some models may lack advanced driver-assist systems or collision avoidance technology.
• Vehicle size and visibility can also impact crash frequency.

Awareness of which vehicles are most frequently involved in collisions may help drivers make safer choices when purchasing or leasing a car.

Legal Options for Victims of Car Accidents in New York

Anyone injured in a car crash caused by another driver’s negligence may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit. These cases can help victims recover compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Future rehabilitation needs

In cases of wrongful death, surviving family members can pursue damages through a wrongful death lawsuit. This can include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional loss. Civil claims can be filed even when no criminal charges are brought.

FAQs About Car Accident Lawsuits in New York

1. Can I sue if I was partially at fault for the crash? Yes. New York follows a pure comparative
2. negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partly responsible. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
3. How long do I have to file a claim? The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York is generally three years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death cases, families have two years from the date of death. Failing to file within these time frames may result in losing the right to sue.
4. What evidence helps prove liability in a car accident? Police reports, dashcam or surveillance footage, eyewitness statements, medical records, and expert accident reconstruction can all help establish fault.
5. Is New York a no-fault insurance state? Yes. New York requires drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which covers basic medical costs and lost wages regardless of who caused the crash. However, if your injuries are serious or exceed a monetary threshold, you can pursue a lawsuit for additional compensation.
6. Do I need a lawyer to file a car accident claim in New York? While not legally required, having an experienced attorney significantly improves your chances of recovering full compensation. Insurers often try to settle quickly and for less than you deserve. A lawyer can protect your rights and negotiate on your behalf.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP For A Free Case Review

If you or a loved one were injured in a car crash in New York, you may be entitled to compensation. Parker Waichman LLP is a national personal injury law firm committed to fighting for accident victims and their families. We offer free consultations and can help you understand your rights, whether you were injured as a driver, pedestrian, or cyclist.

Don’t wait—call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today to learn how we can help you secure justice and financial recovery. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide product injury law firm is ready to assist you and provide you with a free consultation.