- Are You in Need of a Brooklyn Personal Injury Lawyer?
- Why Choose Us Over Other Personal Injury Attorneys in Brooklyn?
- Types Personal Injury Cases
- What’s the Legal Process for a Personal Injury Case?
- How a Lawyer Can Help
- What Is Negligence in a Personal Injury Case?
- Who Can Be Liable for Your Injuries?
- What Is the Statute of Limitations in New York?
Are You in Need of a Brooklyn Personal Injury Lawyer?
When someone else's actions have caused you serious harm, the law gives you the right to pursue compensation. If you have been seriously injured in Brooklyn, you may be facing physical pain, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP (WRSMH), we stand up for people whose lives have been turned upside down. We focus on serious injury cases, from construction accidents and motor vehicle crashes to premises liability and wrongful death claims.
Why Choose Us Over Other Personal Injury Attorneys in Brooklyn?
Our firm brings a lot to the table, including experience, personal attention, and a track record of success. Here’s why so many injured New Yorkers turn to WRSMH:
- Over $2 billion recovered for our clients – a reflection of our relentless pursuit of full justice and meaningful outcomes.
- More than 50 years of personal injury litigation experience – trusted by New Yorkers for generations and built on proven results.
- Recognized as one of the Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report – a distinction earned through results, integrity, and consistent performance.
- Avvo 10.0/10.0 Superb rated – based on peer endorsements, professional conduct, and client satisfaction.
- Named among the Top 10 Law Firms in NYC for Client Satisfaction by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys™ – reflecting our focus on attentive, personalized service.
- Numerous attorneys recognized by Super Lawyers – based on peer reviews and independent research.
- Proud members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum – an elite group of attorneys with proven high-value results.
Notable New York Personal Injury Case Results
$36.25 Million: Construction Worker Fell on Concrete Floor
$18 Million: Construction Worker Fell From a Defective Scaffold
$6.5 Million: Man Hit by Commercial Van
Injured in Brooklyn New York? We've Got Your Back.
Contact WRSMH at (212) 986-7353 for a free, no-obligation case review.
Types Personal Injury Cases
Any accident or injury caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing can give rise to a personal injury claim. Common types of accidents that lead to personal injury lawsuits include:
- Car accidents: Automobile accidents are a frequent occurrence in Brooklyn. While some car accidents are minor “fender benders,” others cause severe, disabling injuries. Head-on collisions, T-bone accidents, rollovers, and rear-end collisions are some of the most serious types of car accidents.
- Truck accidents: With the dramatic increase in e-commerce, large commercial trucks are clogging the nation’s roadways. Passenger vehicle occupants can suffer serious or fatal injuries in a collision with a semi tractor-trailer. Negligence on the part of trucking companies and the drivers they hire can put everyone on the road at risk.
- Motorcycle accidents: Motorcycles are smaller, less visible, and less stable than four-wheeled passenger vehicles. Lacking the protections of an enclosed vehicle, riders are vulnerable to serious injuries in a crash. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other drivers.
- Bicycle accidents: Nearly 1,000 cyclists are killed and more than 130,000 are injured in traffic crashes every year in the U.S., as reported by CDC. In 2020, 932 bicyclists were killed in crashes with motor vehicles, representing a 50% increase since 2010, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Pedestrian accidents: Walking is a healthy, eco-friendly way to get around the city, but it can also be risky. In 2021 in New York City, 123 pedestrians were struck and killed by motor vehicles, as stated by NYC. When a 4,000 pound passenger vehicle hits an unprotected pedestrian, it can cause serious injuries or death.
- Construction site accidents: Construction sites are among the most dangerous places to work. Workers routinely face the risks of falling from heights, being struck by heavy equipment or materials, electrocution, trench cave-ins, collapsing structures, and exposure to toxic materials.
- Medical malpractice: In 2021, insurance companies paid out more than $3 billion for medical malpractice claims in the U.S., as reported by Diederich Healthcare. Medical error is a leading cause of injury and death. Negligent medical providers can be held accountable for the harm they cause.
- Wrongful death: When someone’s negligence or wrongdoing causes the death of a person, surviving family members can seek justice for their loved one and hold responsible parties accountable through a wrongful death claim for compensation.
- Investigating all causes of the accident
- Identifying all liable parties
- Working with medical professionals to document injuries
- Calculating long-term damages
- Handling insurance negotiations
- Preparing every case for trial
- Managing deadlines and legal filings
- The defendant had a duty of care (for example, drivers must operate vehicles safely).
- They breached that duty by acting carelessly or failing to act.
- Their breach caused your injury (directly or foreseeably).
- You suffered damages—physical, financial, or emotional—as a result.
- Personal injury – 3 years from the date of the injury
- Claims against a public agency (e.g., MTA or City of New York) – 90 days to file a Notice of Claim
- Medical malpractice – 2 years and 6 months from the date of malpractice or end of treatment
- Evidence fades quickly. Surveillance footage may be deleted, and witnesses may forget key details.
- Insurance companies act fast. They may pressure you into giving statements or accepting lowball offers.
- Injury documentation matters. Prompt medical treatment creates a clear record linking your injuries to the incident.
- Time limits apply. As outlined above, missing a deadline can bar your claim entirely.
- Early legal guidance protects your rights. From preserving evidence to managing communication with insurers, having a lawyer early helps strengthen your case.
What’s the Legal Process for a Personal Injury Case?
Each personal injury case is unique, but most follow a similar process. At WRSMH, we guide our clients through every step, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
Free Consultation and Case Evaluation
We begin with a free consultation to learn what happened, evaluate the facts, and determine whether you have a claim worth pursuing.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Our legal team collects medical records, witness statements, surveillance footage, and expert opinions to build a strong, well-supported case.
Filing Your Claim
Once the evidence is in place, we initiate a claim with the responsible party’s insurance company. This may include individuals, businesses, or government agencies.
Negotiation
We handle all communications with insurers. If they offer a low settlement, we’re prepared with evidence and legal arguments to demand full compensation.
Filing a Lawsuit (If Needed)
If negotiations stall or the insurer refuses to settle fairly, we file a lawsuit and prepare your case for trial. Our attorneys are seasoned litigators who don’t back down in the courtroom.
Resolution: Settlement or Trial
Most cases settle before trial, but if yours doesn’t, we’ll present your case before a jury and fight for a verdict that reflects the full impact of your injuries.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Personal injury law is complex, and insurance companies do not have your best interests in mind. A skilled lawyer can be the difference between a lowball settlement and a meaningful recovery. At WRSMH, we help clients by:
What Is Negligence in a Personal Injury Case?
Negligence is the legal foundation of most personal injury claims. To succeed in your case, we must prove:
Negligence can take many forms: a property owner who fails to fix a broken staircase, a distracted driver who runs a red light, or a contractor who violates workplace safety laws. Our attorneys have decades of experience proving negligence in complex situations and holding wrongdoers accountable.
Who Can Be Liable for Your Injuries?
Liability isn't always obvious. In many cases, more than one party may share responsibility for your injuries. At WRSMH, we investigate all potential sources of liability.
Businesses
Stores, restaurants, and companies can be liable if you’re injured on their property or due to employee negligence. Examples include slipping on a wet floor or being struck by falling merchandise.
Property Owners
Landlords, property managers, and homeowners are required to maintain safe premises. If a property owner fails to address known hazards like broken railings, poor lighting, or unsafe walkways, they can be held liable.
Manufacturers of Defective Vehicles and Other Products
When injuries result from faulty brakes, exploding airbags, or dangerous consumer products, the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer may be held accountable through a product liability claim.
Personal Injury Law Is What We Do
Let us help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (212) 986-7353 to learn more today.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in New York?
New York law sets strict deadlines for filing a personal injury lawsuit:
If you miss these deadlines, you may lose your right to recover compensation, even if your case is strong. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Reasons to See an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Right Away
You don’t have to know for sure whether you have a case to contact a lawyer. In fact, the earlier you reach out, the better your chances of a successful outcome. Here’s why:
At WRSMH, we offer free consultations and charge no fees unless we win your case. There’s no risk in calling—only the chance to move forward with the support you need.
What Clients Are Saying About Us
Definitely gets the job done-Yasmin Tharp (5-Star Google Review)
My attorney Michael Zisser is one of the most hard working, patient and professional lawyers/PERSON that I’ve ever encountered. Him and I have known one another for just about 10years “wouldn’t trade HIM 4anyone in the world” He’s reliable, trustworthy proficient and most of all, He cares! Definitely gets the job done, every time Blessings to your Family and Firm.
Other firms told me I had no case- Neil B. (5-Star Yelp Review)
I recommend this firm without any hesitation. They were so accommodating and handled every aspect of my case with professionalism. They were able to secure me a large settlement when other firms told me I had no case. Mr. Halperin is honest and professional and kept me abreast of the workings and developments of my case every step of the way. I wholeheartedly recommend that you trust and use this firm for any personal injury matter.
New York Case Results
$18 Million Verdict for Construction Worker Who Fell from a Defective Scaffold
After several weeks of trial, Phil Russotti obtained a verdict in excess of $18 million dollars on behalf of a 42 year old construction laborer and his wife. The laborer fell three stories from a defective scaffold and suffered comminuted fractures of his left calcaneus, osteomyelitis in the left heel and a painful neuroma in his foot.
$8.326 Million Verdict - Personal Injuries Sustained as a Result of a Motor Vehicle Accident
A Suffolk County jury awarded an $8.3 million verdict to our client who, on October 2, 2014, was attempting to make a left turn onto the westbound service road of the Long Island Expressway when her vehicle was struck by a commercial van traveling in the opposite direction.
Other Locations We Serve in New York
Speak With an Experienced Brooklyn Personal Injury Lawyer
Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP knows how to investigate an accident to determine fault, gather evidence to support your claim, assess the full extent of your damages, and vigorously pursue full compensation.
Our firm has the resources to work with outside experts and private investigators to get you the recovery you deserve. Call us at (212) 986-7353 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Personal Injury FAQs
What qualifies as a personal injury case?
A personal injury case arises when someone is harmed due to another party’s negligence or recklessness. This includes car accidents, falls on unsafe property, construction site injuries, and more.
How do I know if I have a valid personal injury claim?
If you were injured and believe someone else’s actions or failure to act caused it, you may have a case. The best way to find out is to speak with an attorney.
How much is my personal injury case worth?
That depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the liability involved. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care costs.
What does it cost to hire WRSMH for a personal injury case?
You pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only owe legal fees if we recover compensation for you.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in New York?
Most personal injury claims must be filed within three years from the date of injury, but claims involving public entities or medical issues may have much shorter deadlines. It's best to act quickly.
Do I have to go to court for a personal injury claim?
Not always. Many cases are resolved through negotiation or mediation. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial to ensure we’re ready for any scenario.
Meet Our Brooklyn Personal Injury Attorneys
Philip Anthony Russotti
Philip A. Russotti is a partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP. In his role at the firm, Phil ensures that every case he handles is prepared with the same rigor, leveraging a full complement of expert witnesses and trial resources. Phil has been a driving force at WRSMH.
Kenneth J. Halperin
Kenneth J. Halperin is a partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP. He handles a broad spectrum of cases. Ken is known for his rigorous case management and trial ready approach, working personally with clients from the start through resolution or verdict. He has obtained significant verdicts and settlements in high stakes construction and premises cases.
Bryce Moses
Bryce Moses is a partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, where he represents people who have been seriously injured. He has secured numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements on behalf of clients throughout New York City. Ken has built a reputation as a tenacious courtroom advocate and a strategic negotiator.
Clifford H. Shapiro
Clifford Harlan Shapiro is a partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, where he has practices personal injury law. Cliff handles a broad range of serious injury and wrongful death cases. Known for his skill in negotiation, he plays an active role in resolving cases through early settlement when possible.