Personal Injury Lawyer Long Island
If you've been injured in an accident on Long Island, you're dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and insurance adjusters requesting documentation while you're still recovering. These are problems that require experienced legal guidance.
At Rosenberg & Rodriguez Personal Injury Lawyers, we represent injury victims throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Our attorneys bring more than 100 years of combined experience to personal injury cases across Long Island. We've helped our clients recover millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for car accidents, slip and falls, construction injuries, and other serious incidents. Our Long Island personal injury lawyers handle every case on a contingency basis. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Why Choose Rosenberg & Rodriguez Personal Injury Lawyers for Your Long Island Injury Case?
Deep Roots in the Long Island Legal Community
Attorney Laura Rosenberg has been licensed to practice law in New York and New Jersey since 2001. Her primary practice focus is personal injury law, and she has spent over two decades handling cases involving motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, and other injury claims throughout the New York metropolitan area. Laura serves as an advisor to the Freeport High School Moot Court Team, staying connected to the local community she serves.
She is a member of the Brooklyn Women's Bar Association, the New York State Trial Lawyers Association, and the New York State Bar Association. She is admitted to practice in both State and Federal Courts. Laura was selected as a Super Lawyer from 2019 through 2026, an honor awarded to no more than 5% of attorneys in the state.
Attorney Ivan Rodriguez brings 25 years of experience handling complex personal injury matters, including wrongful death cases, Lyft and Uber accidents, spinal cord injuries, and claims involving rideshare companies. His extensive trial experience and deep understanding of insurance company tactics make him a formidable advocate for clients facing serious injuries.
Attorney Robin Halstrom rounds out our team, working closely with clients throughout the litigation process. Our attorneys collaborate on cases to ensure clients benefit from the full depth of the firm's experience and resources.
Our firm understands both the local court systems and the specific challenges that arise in injury cases throughout Nassau County and Suffolk County. We've handled claims involving accidents on the Southern State Parkway, slip and falls at local shopping centers, construction site injuries, and countless other incidents across the region.
A Track Record of Substantial Recoveries
Our firm has secured significant recoveries for clients across many different types of injury cases. Some representative results include an $875,000 settlement in a complex liability case, an $815,000 jury verdict, a $760,000 jury verdict, a $750,000 truck accident settlement, and a $550,000 rear-end accident settlement.
We've also obtained recoveries for pedestrians struck by vehicles, people injured by falling debris, nursing home residents who suffered preventable injuries, and workers hurt on construction sites. Each case is different, and past results don't guarantee future outcomes. But they demonstrate our willingness to fight for full compensation.
Full-Service Representation From Start to Finish
Personal injury cases involve more than just negotiating with insurance companies. There's evidence to preserve, medical records to obtain, bills to track, and often complex legal issues to navigate. We handle all of this so you can focus on getting better.
Our approach involves thorough investigation of each incident, coordination with medical providers to document your injuries properly, aggressive negotiation with insurers, and preparation for trial when settlement offers fall short. We stay in communication throughout the process, so you always know where your case stands.
Contingency Fee Structure
We work on a contingency fee basis. No recovery, no fee. This means you don't pay attorney fees unless we obtain compensation for you. The consultation is free. We advance the costs of investigation and litigation. If we don't win your case, you owe us nothing.
★★★★★
"I had a vehicular accident. My car was rear ended and I was hurt. I was looking for an injury lawyers that are honest and reliable. Someone recommended me the R & R Rosenberg & Rodrigues, PLLC." – Eduardo Tomarong
Read more reviews on our Google Business Profile.
Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle in Long Island
Personal injury law covers a wide range of situations where someone is hurt due to another party's negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. We handle cases throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties involving the following:
- Car Accidents. We represent drivers, passengers, and pedestrians injured in collisions across Long Island. This includes rear-end crashes, intersection accidents, highway pileups on routes like the LIE and Southern State Parkway, and incidents involving uninsured motorists.
- Truck Accidents. Commercial vehicle crashes often cause catastrophic injuries. We investigate trucking companies, review driver log violations, and pursue claims against all responsible parties.
- Motorcycle Accidents. Riders face unique risks on Long Island roads. We fight against bias in these cases and work to protect motorcyclists' rights after a collision.
- Bicycle Accidents. Cyclists hit by vehicles or injured due to road defects can pursue compensation. This includes dooring accidents and crashes caused by negligent drivers.
- Rideshare Accidents. Uber and Lyft accidents involve complex insurance questions. We understand how these cases work and pursue claims against appropriate policies.
- Pedestrian Accidents. People struck while walking face severe injuries. We help pedestrians assert their rights and pursue full compensation after a collision.
- Slip and Fall Accidents. Property owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions. We handle claims involving common hazards like wet floors, broken stairs, icy sidewalks, and inadequate lighting.
- Premises Liability. Beyond slip and falls, property owners can be liable for inadequate security, falling debris, elevator accidents, and other dangerous conditions on their property.
- Dog Bites. New York has specific rules governing owner liability for animal attacks. We handle claims under New York dog bite laws.
- Construction Accidents. Workers hurt on job sites may have claims beyond workers' compensation. We pursue third-party liability claims against property owners, general contractors, and equipment manufacturers.
- Burn Injuries. Fires, explosions, chemical exposure, and other incidents can cause devastating burns. We pursue compensation for medical treatment, skin grafts, rehabilitation, and long-term care needs.
New York Legal Requirements for Personal Injury Claims
Several key laws directly affect what you can recover and how much time you have to act in a New York personal injury case.
Statute of Limitations: New York gives you three years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in most cases. This deadline is set in CPLR Section 214. Miss that deadline, and the court will almost certainly dismiss your case, no matter how strong your evidence. Medical malpractice claims have a shorter window of two years and six months. Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the death. The statute of limitations varies depending on case type, so acting promptly is critical.
Claims Against Government Entities: If your injury involves a city bus, a pothole on a municipal road, or another government-related cause, you face much shorter deadlines. You must file a formal notice of claim within 90 days of the incident. The actual lawsuit must be filed within one year and 90 days. Missing these deadlines typically means losing your right to sue entirely.
Comparative Negligence: New York follows a pure comparative fault system under CPLR Section 1411. Even if you were partly at fault for your accident, you can still recover damages. Your award is reduced by your percentage of fault. Someone found 30% responsible for their own injuries would recover 70% of their total damages. Unlike some states with cutoff rules, New York allows recovery even if you bear the majority of the fault.
No-Fault Insurance Requirements: New York's no-fault system, codified in Insurance Law Article 51, requires your own auto insurance to pay up to $50,000 for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. To sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, you must prove you suffered a "serious injury" as defined by the statute. This includes permanent disfigurement, bone fractures, significant limitation of a body function, or being unable to perform your usual activities for at least 90 of the first 180 days after the accident.
What Damages Are Recoverable in Long Island Personal Injury Cases?
When you're injured due to someone else's negligence, New York law allows you to recover several categories of damages. Knowing what compensation is available helps you evaluate settlement offers and make informed decisions about your case.
Economic Damages: These are the calculable financial losses you incur. They include medical expenses (hospital bills, surgery costs, physical therapy, prescription medications, medical equipment, and future treatment), lost wages (income you've already lost plus future earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work), property damage, and out-of-pocket costs related to your injury. Economic damages require documentation. Medical bills, pay stubs, tax returns, and receipts all serve as evidence.
Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for losses that don't have a specific dollar value. Pain and suffering is the most common category. It covers physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, loss of enjoyment of life, and the impact your injuries have on your daily activities and relationships. New York doesn't cap non-economic damages in most personal injury cases, which means juries can award substantial amounts for severe or permanent injuries.
Punitive Damages: In rare cases involving extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct, you may be able to recover punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior. Courts require clear evidence of willful disregard for safety, such as drunk driving or deliberate concealment of known dangers. Most personal injury cases do not involve punitive damages.
Wrongful Death Damages: When someone dies due to another party's negligence, surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim. Recoverable damages include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of parental guidance for minor children, and the pain and suffering the deceased experienced before death. New York imposes a two-year filing deadline for wrongful death claims.
What Steps Should I Take After an Accident in Long Island?
The actions you take immediately after an injury can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation. Here's what you should do to protect yourself and your potential claim.
1. Ensure Safety First. Move to a safe location if possible. In a vehicle accident, pull to the shoulder or a parking lot if your car is drivable and you're able to move safely.
2. Call 911. Report the accident to police and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. A police report creates an official record of the incident.
3. Seek Medical Attention. Get checked out by a doctor, even if you feel okay. Some injuries like whiplash, concussions, and soft tissue injuries don't show symptoms immediately. Medical documentation starting the day of the accident strengthens your claim.
4. Document the Scene. Take photographs of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, weather conditions, and any visible injuries. The more evidence you collect, the better.
5. Exchange Information. Get names, contact information, insurance details, and license plate numbers from other parties involved. If there are witnesses, get their contact information too.
6. Don't Admit Fault. Avoid apologizing or making statements about who caused the accident. Even casual comments can be used against you later. Stick to the facts when speaking with police.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company. Report the accident to your insurer as required by your policy. Be factual but brief. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company.
8. Keep All Records. Save medical bills, receipts, correspondence with insurers, and any other documents related to your injury. Organize everything in one place.
9. Follow Your Doctor's Instructions. Attend all appointments and follow prescribed treatment plans. Gaps in treatment give insurers ammunition to argue your injuries weren't serious.
10. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney. Before accepting any settlement offer, speak with a lawyer who can evaluate your case and advise you on what it's actually worth. Insurance companies are motivated to pay as little as possible, and their tactics to undervalue claims can cost you significant compensation.
Personal Injury Statistics in Long Island
Long Island has some of the highest traffic crash numbers in New York State. These figures illustrate why having an experienced attorney matters.
According to data from the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, traffic crashes killed or injured 29,428 people on Long Island in 2024 alone. Nassau and Suffolk Counties are among the most dangerous in the state for motor vehicle collisions. In 2022, Suffolk County reported 164 traffic deaths while Nassau County had 81, making Long Island responsible for approximately 20% of all traffic fatalities statewide despite representing a smaller portion of the population.
Pedestrian safety is a growing concern. From 2022 to 2024, pedestrians injured or killed in crashes across Nassau and Suffolk Counties increased by 10%. In 2024, 58 pedestrians lost their lives in Long Island traffic incidents. Speed-related crashes claimed 62 lives on Long Island in 2024 and injured another 2,859 people.
Impaired driving remains a major factor. In 2023, 881 people on Long Island were injured in crashes where the driver was impaired by alcohol or drugs. Alcohol- or drug-involved crashes killed 124 people on Long Island that same year. According to NHTSA, impaired driving continues to be one of the leading factors in fatal traffic crashes nationwide.
Nassau County alone recorded over 360,000 crashes between 2015 and 2024. These accident statistics underscore why proper legal representation matters for Long Island residents.
Long Island Personal Injury Lawyer FAQs
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer in Long Island?
Most personal injury attorneys on Long Island, including our firm, work on contingency. You pay nothing upfront. Attorney fees come out of your settlement or verdict. If there's no recovery, there's no fee. This arrangement lets you pursue a claim without financial risk.
How long will my personal injury case take?
Timelines vary significantly. A straightforward car accident case with clear liability and documented injuries might settle in several months. Complex cases involving severe injuries, multiple defendants, or disputed liability can take two to three years or longer, especially if they go to trial. The case timeline depends on many factors specific to your situation.
What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in New York?
You generally have three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Claims against government entities require a notice of claim within 90 days. Medical malpractice claims have a two-and-a-half-year limit. These deadlines are strictly enforced.
What if I was partially at fault for my accident?
New York's pure comparative fault rule means you can still recover compensation. Your award is reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Even if you were 80% at fault, you could recover 20% of your damages. Comparative negligence is an important factor when evaluating settlement offers.
Should I accept the insurance company's first settlement offer?
Almost never. Initial offers are typically much lower than what a claim is worth. Insurance adjusters are trained to settle quickly, before you fully understand the extent of your injuries or consult with an attorney. Insurers frequently undervalue claims, so review any offer carefully before accepting.
What is the "serious injury" threshold in New York car accident cases?
New York's no-fault law limits your right to sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering unless you meet the serious injury threshold defined in Insurance Law Section 5102(d). Categories include death, dismemberment, significant disfigurement, bone fractures, loss of a fetus, permanent limitation of a body function, or being substantially disabled from your usual activities for 90 of the first 180 days after the accident.
What if the at-fault driver doesn't have insurance?
Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply. New York requires insurers to offer this coverage, though you may have declined it when purchasing your policy. An attorney can help identify all available sources of compensation.
Can I file a lawsuit if I'm an undocumented immigrant?
Yes. Immigration status does not affect your right to pursue a personal injury claim in New York. Courts have consistently held that all injury victims are entitled to compensation regardless of documentation status. Undocumented immigrants have the same legal protections as any other accident victim.
Do I have to go to court?
Most personal injury cases settle before trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, going to court may be necessary. Our firm prepares every case as if it will go to trial, which often motivates better settlement offers.
What injuries qualify for a personal injury claim?
Any injury caused by someone else's negligence can potentially support a claim. Common injuries include brain injuries, back injuries, neck injuries, broken bones, burns, lacerations, and internal injuries.
How is pain and suffering calculated in New York?
There's no fixed formula. Juries consider the nature and severity of injuries, the duration of pain, the impact on daily activities, and how the injuries affect quality of life. Past verdicts in similar cases provide some guidance.
Can I sue my employer if I was hurt at work?
Generally, workers' compensation is your exclusive remedy against an employer. However, you may have a claim against a third party, such as a property owner, equipment manufacturer, or subcontractor. The difference between workers' comp and personal injury claims is important for maximizing your recovery.
Will my settlement affect my SSI or Medicaid benefits?
Potentially. Lump-sum settlements can affect means-tested benefits. Special needs trusts and structured settlements can sometimes preserve eligibility. Settlements can affect benefits, so planning ahead with an attorney is important.
How do I know when to hire an attorney?
If you've suffered significant injuries, face ongoing medical treatment, are dealing with an uncooperative insurance company, or were injured due to clear negligence, consulting an attorney makes sense. Knowing when to hire an attorney can help you make an informed decision.
What should I ask during a free consultation?
Ask about the attorney's experience with cases like yours, their track record, how they communicate with clients, who will actually handle your case, and what they think your case is worth. Asking the right questions can help you and your attorney start your case effectively and efficiently.
Most Dangerous Locations for Personal Injury on Long Island
Certain roads and intersections on Long Island see significantly more accidents than others. Being aware of these high-risk areas can help you stay alert, though crashes can happen anywhere.
Jericho Turnpike (Route 25) consistently ranks among the most dangerous roads in the tri-state area, with high traffic volume passing through residential and commercial zones. The intersection of Jericho Turnpike and Route 110 in Huntington Station reportedly sees over 200 accidents annually.
The Southern State Parkway, particularly the segment known locally as "Blood Alley," has a long history of serious crashes. Sunrise Highway and Deer Park Avenue in North Babylon is another heavily traveled intersection with elevated accident rates. Hempstead Turnpike and Nassau Road in Franklin Square sees more than 50 crashes per year.
The Long Island Expressway (I-495), while designed for high-speed travel, sees frequent collisions during rush hour and in construction zones. These incidents often involve multiple vehicles and can result in severe injuries.
Important Local Resources for Long Island Personal Injury Victims
If you've been injured in an accident on Long Island, the following resources may be helpful. This list is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by Rosenberg & Rodriguez Personal Injury Lawyers.
- Nassau County Police Department – (516) 573-7000
- Suffolk County Police Department – (631) 852-6000
- Nassau University Medical Center (Level I Trauma) – (516) 572-0123
- Stony Brook University Hospital (Level I Trauma) – (631) 444-4000
- North Shore University Hospital – (516) 562-0100
- New York State DMV (Crash Reports)
Disclaimer: The listing of these resources does not constitute an endorsement by Rosenberg & Rodriguez Personal Injury Lawyers. We are not affiliated with these organizations.
Contact Rosenberg & Rodriguez Personal Injury Lawyers
If you've been injured in an accident on Long Island, we're here to help. Our attorneys offer free, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your case and explain your options. We handle all personal injury cases on a contingency basis: no recovery, no fee.
When you contact us, you'll speak with someone who can answer your questions and schedule a time to discuss your situation in detail. We respond promptly to all inquiries and make ourselves available to clients throughout the legal process.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.