New York Car Accident Settlement Calculator

New York Car Accident Settlement Laws

New York follows pure comparative fault rules for personal injury claims. The statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit in NY is 3 years from the date of the accident.

How New York Fault Rules Affect Your Settlement

Under New York's pure comparative fault system, your compensation may be reduced or barred based on your percentage of fault in the accident.

Under pure comparative fault, you can recover damages even if you are 99% at fault, though your award is reduced by your fault percentage.

Average Car Accident Settlements in New York

• Minor injuries (whiplash, sprains): $5,000 – $25,000
• Moderate injuries (fractures, disc herniation): $25,000 – $100,000
• Serious injuries (surgery, long recovery): $100,000 – $500,000
• Severe/catastrophic (TBI, spinal cord): $500,000 – $5,000,000+

What Affects Your NY Settlement Value?

• Total medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering multiplier (typically 1.5x to 5x medical costs)
• Your percentage of fault under New York's pure comparative fault rules
• Insurance policy limits of the at-fault driver
• Quality of evidence (photos, police report, witnesses)
• Whether you hired an attorney

Steps After a Car Accident in New York

• Call 911 and get a police report filed
• Seek immediate medical attention (even if injuries seem minor)
• Document everything: photos, witness info, medical records
• Do NOT give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance
• Consult a New York personal injury attorney within the 3 years statute of limitations
• Keep all receipts for medical bills, prescriptions, and lost work

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only and should not be considered legal advice. Actual settlement values depend on many factors unique to your case. Consult a licensed New York attorney for personalized guidance.