Long Island
Car Accident Lawyer on Long Island
Injured in a car crash on Long Island? Winkler Kurtz LLP fights the insurance companies so you can focus on healing. Free consultation. No fee unless we win.
DO YOU HAVE A CASE?
Signs you need a car accident lawyer
After a crash, the insurance company will contact you fast. They are not calling to help. They are calling to protect their bottom line. Here are the situations where you need a lawyer on your side:
You went to the emergency room or needed ongoing medical treatment
The insurance company is offering a quick settlement before you finish treatment
You missed work because of your injuries and are losing income
The other driver's insurance company says you were partially at fault
You have injuries that may require future surgery or long-term care
The other driver was uninsured or underinsured
A commercial vehicle, rideshare, or government vehicle was involved
The police report contains errors about how the accident happened
If any of these apply to you, call 631-928-8000. We can usually tell you in one conversation whether you have a case worth pursuing.
WHY CHOOSE US
Why Winkler Kurtz LLP for your car accident case
04
We Handle the Insurance CompanyYou should not have to negotiate with trained adjusters while recovering from injuries. We take over all communication with the insurance company from day one and fight for full compensation.
01
We Know New York No-Fault LawNew York's no-fault system limits when you can sue. Our attorneys know exactly how to establish a "serious injury" under Insurance Law 5102(d) so you can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.
02
We Prepare Every Case for Trial
Insurance companies settle for more when they know the firm on the other side actually goes to court. Our attorneys have tried car accident cases in Suffolk County Supreme Court and Nassau County Supreme Court.
03
Results That Matter$2.0 million recovered for a woman who suffered brain hemorrhages and multiple fractures from a rear-end collision on the Long Island Expressway. $3.4 million for a child with a traumatic brain injury from a head-on collision.
HOW WE BUILD YOUR CASE
OUR PROCESS
From crash to compensation
Free Case Evaluation
We review your accident details, injuries, and insurance situation at no cost. You leave the consultation knowing exactly where you stand.
Investigation and Evidence Collection
We obtain the police report, witness statements, medical records, traffic camera footage, and any available dashcam or surveillance video. If needed, we hire accident reconstruction experts.
Demand and Negotiation
We calculate your full damages, including future medical costs, and submit a demand to the insurance company. We do not accept lowball offers. We negotiate aggressively and keep you informed at every step.
Settlement or Trial
If the insurance company agrees to fair compensation, we settle. If they do not, we file suit and take your case to trial. You pay nothing unless we win.
HOW WE GET PAID
You pay nothing unless we win your case
No retainer. You do not pay anything to hire us.
No hourly billing. We do not charge by the hour.
No costs upfront. We advance all case expenses, including court fees, expert witness fees, and investigation costs.
We only get paid if you get paid. Our fee is a percentage of the recovery we win for you. If we do not win, you owe us nothing.
This arrangement exists because we believe every injured person deserves access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. The insurance company has a team of lawyers. You should too.
Personal injury cases at Winkler Kurtz LLP are handled on a contingency fee basis. That means:What sets us apart isn’t just our process—it’s the intention behind it. We take time to understand, explore, and create with purpose at every turn.
CASE TYPES
Types of car accident cases on Long Island
-
The most common car accident on Long Island. Often caused by distracted driving or tailgating on the LIE, Northern State Parkway, or Sunrise Highway. Injuries typically include whiplash, herniated discs, and concussions.
-
T-bone and broadside collisions at Suffolk County intersections frequently result in broken bones, internal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Red-light cameras and witness testimony are critical evidence in these cases.
-
Often the most severe. Wrong-way drivers, impaired drivers, and drivers crossing the center line on two-lane roads like Route 112 and Route 25A cause catastrophic injuries.
-
If the other driver fled the scene, your uninsured motorist coverage may apply. We help you navigate the claim and identify the driver through police investigation, surveillance footage, and witness accounts.
-
Highway accidents involving multiple vehicles create complex liability questions. Multiple insurance companies, multiple drivers, and overlapping claims require experienced legal handling.
-
Uber and Lyft accidents involve commercial insurance policies with higher limits. We know how to navigate the layered insurance structure these companies use.
-
New York law requires uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. If the at-fault driver cannot pay, your own policy may cover your damages. We help you maximize this coverage.
YOUR DAMAGES
Compensation available after a car accident in New York
When you file a personal injury claim after a car accident, you may be entitled to recover:
-
Hospital bills, surgery costs, physical therapy, prescription medications, medical devices, and future treatment related to your injuries.
-
Income you have already lost because you could not work, plus future lost earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job.
-
Physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and the overall reduction in your quality of life following the accident.
-
Repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the crash.
-
Compensation for the impact the accident has had on your relationship with your spouse or family.
Every case is different. The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the clarity of liability, and the available insurance coverage. Our attorneys evaluate all of these factors during your free consultation.
RESULTS
Car accident results
$3.4 Million
9-year-old girl who sustained a traumatic brain injury with hemiparesis from a head-on automobile collision.
$2.0 Million
Woman who suffered brain hemorrhages and multiple fractures following a rear-end collision on the Long Island Expressway.
$2.25 Million
Wrongful death of a university professor and his wife following a motor vehicle accident.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Common questions about car accident claims on Long Island
-
The value depends on the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical treatment, your lost wages, and the impact on your quality of life. Our attorneys have recovered settlements ranging from five figures to over $3 million for car accident clients. We evaluate your case during a free consultation.
-
Almost never. First offers are designed to close your claim quickly and cheaply, often before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you accept, you cannot go back for more money. Let us review the offer before you sign anything.
-
New York follows pure comparative negligence rules. Even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover compensation. Your award is reduced by your percentage of fault, but you are not barred from filing a claim.
-
You have 3 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. But evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and medical documentation is easier to build early. Do not wait. Call us as soon as possible after your accident.
-
"Minor" injuries can become serious over time. Herniated discs, soft tissue damage, and concussions may not show full symptoms for weeks or months. A lawyer protects your right to pursue compensation if your condition worsens.
-
New York requires uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on all auto insurance policies. If the at-fault driver has no insurance, you can file a claim under your own UM coverage. We help you navigate this process and maximize your recovery.
-
Yes. Passengers can file claims against any at-fault driver involved in the accident, including the driver of the vehicle they were riding in. You may also have claims under the vehicle owner's insurance policy.
-
The strongest cases include the police report, photos of the scene and damage, medical records, witness contact information, and documentation of lost wages. If you have dashcam footage or nearby surveillance video, that can be extremely valuable. Our team also subpoenas records and hires experts when needed.
-
Cases with clear liability and documented injuries may settle in 6 to 12 months. Cases that go to litigation can take 2 to 3 years. We never rush a settlement to close a file. We fight for the full value of your case.
-
Most car accident cases settle before trial. But we prepare every case as though it will go to court. If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we file suit and represent you through trial. You will be prepared for every step.
FAQ
SERVICE AREA
Car accident lawyer serving all of Long Island
Winkler Kurtz LLP represents car accident victims across Suffolk County and Nassau County. We handle crashes on the Long Island Expressway, Northern State Parkway, Sunrise Highway, Southern State Parkway, Route 112, Route 25A, Route 347, and local roads throughout Port Jefferson Station, Smithtown, Centereach, Setauket, Stony Brook, and Lake Ronkonkoma. We also represent clients in Coram, Selden, Patchogue, Medford, Holbrook, Ronkonkoma, Hauppauge, Bohemia, and communities across Long Island. If your accident happened here, call 631-928-8000.
-
Long Island, New York, is a sprawling, densely-populated island in the southeastern part of the state. It stretches about 118 miles from New York Harbor into the Atlantic Ocean, and is made up of four counties: Kings (Brooklyn), Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk. Brooklyn and Queens, the westernmost counties, are also boroughs of New York City. The island is renowned for its significant role in the history of aviation, its affluent suburbs, and its vibrant cultural life. This article delves into the demographics, education system, and tourism opportunities that make Long Island a unique and dynamic region.
Demographics
Long Island is one of the most densely populated regions in the United States, with a complex and diverse demographic makeup. As of the latest U.S. Census, the population of Nassau and Suffolk Counties alone exceeds 2.8 million residents, while the total for the entire island, including Brooklyn and Queens, reaches approximately 7.8 million people. This makes it one of the most populous islands in the U.S. and indeed the world.
The demographic composition of Long Island is varied, with a significant representation of various ethnic and racial groups. Historically, the island has had a predominantly white population, but recent decades have seen an increase in diversity. There is a significant Hispanic community, which makes up about 20% of the population in Nassau and Suffolk. African Americans, Asians, and other groups also have substantial representations. This diversity is reflected in the myriad cultural festivals, restaurants, and businesses found across the island.
Education
Education on Long Island is distinguished by its high performance and vast array of institutions. The island is home to several nationally recognized public school districts such as Jericho, Manhasset, and Great Neck – all known for their strong academic programs and high college-admission rates. Additionally, there are numerous private schools that offer specialized educational programs, including religious and preparatory tracks.
Higher education also plays a significant role in the fabric of Long Island. The region boasts several prestigious universities and colleges. Stony Brook University, part of the State University of New York system, is renowned for its strong STEM and health sciences programs. Hofstra University in Hempstead offers a broad array of undergraduate and graduate programs, and its debates during the U.S. presidential elections highlight its involvement in national discourse. Adelphi University and LIU Post provide additional opportunities for higher education, emphasizing both academic rigor and community engagement.
Tourism
Tourism is a vital part of Long Island's economy, drawing visitors from around the globe with its beaches, historic sites, and vineyards. The island's South Shore, with its white sandy beaches and bustling boardwalks, is popular in the summer months. Jones Beach State Park, one of the most famous seaside attractions in New York, offers miles of beaches, an amphitheater, and a nature center.
Beyond the beaches, the North Shore offers a glimpse into the island's "Gold Coast" era, famously immortalized by F. Scott Fitzgerald in "The Great Gatsby." Here, visitors can explore opulent mansions and sprawling estates that harken back to the early 20th century. Oheka Castle and Old Westbury Gardens are prime examples of this extravagant past.
Long Island is also celebrated for its contributions to aviation history. The Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City tells the story of the island’s pivotal role in the aerospace industry. Further enhancing its cultural landscape, Long Island is home to a thriving wine country. The North Fork, in particular, is dotted with vineyards that offer tours and tastings, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts.
Long Island offers a rich tapestry of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities. Its diverse demographics enrich the cultural experience, while top-tier educational institutions prepare students for global challenges. Tourists are drawn to its historical sites and natural beauty, making it a unique destination in New York's metropolitan area. Whether it's exploring lush vineyards, enjoying pristine beaches, or learning about the rich history of aviation, Long Island offers a multifaceted experience that caters to a wide array of interests and backgrounds.
-
-
11101
-
Suffolk County, Port Jefferson, Port Jefferson Station, Selden, Coram, Middle Island, Miller Place, Rocky Point, Wading River, Ridge, Yaphank, Brookhaven, Medford, Farmingville, Patchogue, Holbrook, Centereach, St. James. Nesconset, Smithtown, Ronkonkoma, Bohemia, Islandia, Hauppauge, Central Islip, Hamptons, Mastic, Mastic Beach, Shirley
Injured on Long Island? Call us now.
The insurance company is already building its case. You should be building yours. Call 631-928-8000 today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Long Island personal injury lawyer. We have been fighting for accident victims since 1987, and we only get paid when you do. Every conversation starts with your story. We listen, we evaluate, and we give you straight answers about your options. Winkler Kurtz LLP. 4.9 stars. 90 reviews. 38 years. Five Super Lawyers. One mission: your recovery.