New York Sees Increase in Auto Accidents While 48 Other States Improve Accident Rates

Legal Help for Victims of Car Accidents in New York – We Represent Those Harmed in the Rising Wave of Traffic Collisions

New York Drivers Face Alarming Rise in Car Accidents in 2024

New York has become one of only two states in the nation to experience a year-over-year increase in auto accidents, according to a comprehensive 2024 study based on data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and auto insurer Insurify. While many other states saw declines in traffic collisions, the Empire State’s car accidents increased by more than 10%, raising serious public safety concerns for drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians throughout the region.

This troubling spike in accidents comes even as the state has attempted to curb dangerous driving through legislative measures like Sammy’s Law and congestion pricing programs in New York City. However, the data suggests these initiatives have not yet reversed the trend of rising crash rates.

If you or a loved one were injured or killed in a New York auto accident in 2023 or 2024, you are not alone. The national law firm Parker Waichman LLP is actively representing victims throughout New York who suffered serious harm in car crashes and may be entitled to significant compensation.

Key Findings About New York’s Rising Auto Accident Rates

The study’s findings paint a stark picture. While nationwide car crash fatalities remain tragically high, most states saw improvements in 2024. New York and Vermont were the only two states where crash rates actually increased.

Notable data includes:

• New York saw a 10.16% increase in accidents from 2023 to 2024.
• Vermont, the only other state to record an increase, saw a more modest rise of 2.01%.
• By contrast, Wisconsin saw the largest reduction, with traffic accidents dropping by 33.5%.
• New York still ranks 20th in fatal crash frequency, but the upward trend is deeply concerning for urban and suburban drivers alike.

These statistics indicate a worsening driving environment in New York, where aggressive driving, speeding, and congestion continue to contribute to collisions. Although the state is actively introducing reforms, many residents have already suffered the devastating consequences of roadway negligence.

Why Are Crashes Increasing in New York?

Several factors are contributing to the growing number of car accidents in New York:

1. Risky Driving Behavior Post-Pandemic

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, nationwide data shows an increase in reckless behaviors like speeding, running red lights, and driving under the influence. That trend remains especially persistent in high-density states like New York, where drivers are frequently in a rush or frustrated by congested roads.

2. Congestion and Urban Density

While New York enacted a congestion pricing law in 2025 to reduce traffic in Manhattan, the long-term effects remain unclear. The state continues to grapple with packed highways, clogged intersections, and pedestrian-heavy zones—all increasing the risk of multi-vehicle and pedestrian-related accidents.

3. Driver Age and Inexperience

The study confirms that younger drivers, particularly those aged 16 to 19, are at the highest risk for collisions. Drivers under 25 consistently show elevated crash rates, and many of these drivers are now back on the road in higher numbers post-pandemic.

4. Male Drivers More Likely to Be Involved in Fatal Accidents

Statistical trends indicate that males are more frequently involved in fatal car crashes compared to females across all age groups, according to both the NHTSA and Insurify data.

These trends are more than just numbers—they translate into real-world tragedies, including catastrophic injuries, lost lives, and permanent disabilities. Our law firm is helping New York accident victims assert their legal rights and pursue justice.

State and Local Reforms Aimed at Reducing Traffic Collisions

In response to rising traffic fatalities and accident rates, New York state and city governments have rolled out legislative and policy responses, including:

Sammy’s Law

Enacted to give New York City the power to lower speed limits in specific areas to 20 mph or even 10 mph, Sammy’s Law is designed to reduce pedestrian injuries and deaths. These “calming zones” target known high-risk areas where speeding has historically led to severe accidents.

Congestion Pricing Program

Launched in January 2025, this program charges drivers a fee to enter midtown Manhattan during peak hours. It aims to reduce the number of vehicles on the road, encourage public transit use, and lower the likelihood of crashes caused by gridlock.

While these policies are promising, their effectiveness has yet to materialize in the data. Accidents have increased despite these measures, and victims injured during this rise have every right to explore their legal options.

Who Is Most at Risk for Auto Accidents in New York?

Based on the study and federal traffic data, certain demographics and vehicle categories are especially vulnerable:

• Teen and young adult drivers have the highest crash rates, particularly Gen Z drivers, with a 6.84% accident rate.
• Males of all age groups are more likely to be involved in fatal accidents than females.
• Smaller vehicle brands like Mitsubishi, Lincoln, and Dodge reported higher accident rates in 2024.
• Urban drivers in NYC boroughs, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, are especially susceptible to fender benders and high-speed crashes due to tight traffic and frequent pedestrian crossings.

Regardless of the driver’s age or the vehicle type, every crash victim deserves a full and fair evaluation of their claim. Whether you were a driver, pedestrian, or passenger, you have rights under New York law—and you may be entitled to compensation if another party’s negligence caused your injuries.

Filing an Auto Accident Injury Lawsuit in New York

If you were hurt in a car crash in New York, the law provides pathways to financial recovery. Under New York’s personal injury laws, a victim may file a lawsuit if they sustained:

• Serious bodily injuries (as defined by NY Insurance Law § 5102)
• Permanent impairment or disability
• Significant medical expenses beyond no-fault insurance limits
• Pain and suffering
• Lost income due to time away from work
• Wrongful death of a family member in a fatal collision

To pursue a claim, it is essential to gather medical records, accident reports, and evidence of the other party’s fault (such as distracted driving, intoxication, speeding, or failing to yield).

Our legal team handles every aspect of the claim—from insurance negotiations to trial, if needed—and fights for the maximum compensation allowed under the law.

Why Choose Parker Waichman LLP for Your Auto Accident Case?

Parker Waichman LLP is a national law firm with a proven track record of handling complex personal injury and wrongful death claims, including auto accident cases across New York. We understand what it takes to hold reckless drivers, companies, and municipalities accountable for the injuries they cause.

Our legal team provides:

• Free, no-obligation case consultations
• No fees unless we win your case
• Full case investigation and expert consultations
• Negotiation with insurance companies on your behalf
• Litigation and courtroom representation, if necessary

Contact Parker Waichman LLP For a Free Case Review

If you or someone in your family was injured or killed in a car crash in New York during the recent rise in accidents, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. Our legal team is here to help you navigate your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.

Call Parker Waichman LLP at 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free consultation. We are accepting cases across New York and the nation. There are no legal fees unless we win your case. Don’t wait—your time to file a claim may be limited.