Common Types of Personal Injury Accidents: What You Need to Know

Accidents happen when we least expect them — but not all accidents are the same. In New York, certain types of personal injury accidents occur more frequently and can have lasting effects on your life and health.

Let’s take a closer look at the most common accident types and what you should know about each.

1. Car Accidents

From fender benders to serious collisions, car accidents are among the most reported personal injury cases. These crashes can result in more than just surface injuries. In fact, traumatic brain injuries are a common consequence — sometimes overlooked at first but potentially life-changing. Understanding the severity of these injuries is essential when pursuing legal action.

2. Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and falls occur in grocery stores, on icy sidewalks, or poorly lit staircases. While they might seem minor, they can lead to broken bones or spinal damage. Legally, these incidents often revolve around proving negligence, especially when property owners fail to address hazards they knew — or should have known — about.

3. Pedestrian Accidents

New York pedestrians face unique risks. Whether crossing at a crosswalk or walking along a shoulder, drivers who fail to yield or drive distracted can cause catastrophic harm. The aftermath of these accidents often involves complicated insurance negotiations and long-term medical care.

4. Construction Accidents

Construction zones are among the most hazardous workplaces. Accidents can stem from falls, equipment malfunctions, or safety violations. Victims may have a case not only under personal injury law but also under workers’ compensation or labor law protections.

5. Medical Malpractice

A misdiagnosis or surgical error can completely alter a person’s life. These cases often involve technical medical knowledge, but they ultimately rest on the same legal foundation: Was there negligence involved?

At GBLaw, we’ve seen how these incidents affect every part of a person’s life. If you or a loved one have experienced serious harm due to an accident, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our team helps you understand the injury, the legal process, and how to move forward. For example, if you’re unsure whether a head injury is grounds for a claim, check out our article on understanding brain injuries after an accident.