Manhattan, NY (July 10, 2025) – A serious crash in East Harlem sent multiple people to the hospital Thursday afternoon after two vehicles collided at the intersection of East 116th Street and 1st Avenue, near the edge of Thomas Jefferson Park.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as the two passenger cars crashed in the intersection, with one vehicle reportedly losing control and slamming into a nearby light pole. The impact left both vehicles badly damaged, and debris littered the roadway across several lanes.
Emergency crews, including NYPD officers, FDNY firefighters, and EMS personnel, responded quickly. Several people were treated at the scene, while at least one injured individual was transported to a nearby hospital for additional care.
Authorities temporarily closed off part of the intersection as they worked to secure the scene, remove the wreckage, and investigate what led to the crash. Officials are examining surveillance footage and speaking with witnesses to determine whether factors such as speeding, failure to yield, or distracted driving played a role.
The full extent of the victims’ injuries has not been disclosed. The investigation remains active.
We send our best wishes to those injured in this East Harlem collision and hope for a full and speedy recovery for everyone involved.
New York Car Accidents
Car accidents are a daily reality in New York City, and Manhattan consistently ranks among the boroughs with the highest number of injury-related collisions. With its dense traffic, packed intersections, and a constant mix of cars, cyclists, buses, and pedestrians, the risks of being involved in a serious crash are significant—whether you’re commuting down Broadway or navigating side streets in neighborhoods like Chelsea, the Lower East Side, or Harlem.
In 2023, more than 248,000 motor vehicle accidents were reported across New York State, and a large share occurred in Manhattan’s high-traffic zones. While every crash has its own set of circumstances, several common factors continue to contribute to injuries on Manhattan’s busy streets:
- Speeding: Even on short stretches between red lights, speeding can lead to devastating crashes. The higher the speed, the more severe the injuries—especially for pedestrians and cyclists in crosswalks or bike lanes.
- Failure to Yield: Intersections throughout Manhattan are often chaotic, with drivers making aggressive left turns, blocking the box, or failing to yield to pedestrians. These right-of-way violations frequently lead to collisions, especially during rush hour.
- Weather Hazards: Wet pavement, snow, and reduced visibility can make driving even more treacherous in a city already crowded with obstacles. When drivers fail to adjust for poor conditions, accidents are more likely.
- Tailgating in Stop-and-Go Traffic: Following too closely in bumper-to-bumper conditions—common on the FDR, West Side Highway, and avenues throughout Midtown—leads to frequent rear-end crashes, often with painful and lingering injuries.
If you were injured in a Manhattan traffic collision, it’s essential to act quickly. Seeking legal guidance early helps ensure crucial evidence is preserved, witnesses can be contacted, and your rights are protected from the start, especially when insurance companies push for quick, lowball settlements.
At Keith D. Silverstein & Associates, our car crash attorneys understand the unique challenges injury victims face in Manhattan’s high-stakes traffic environment. Our skilled legal team has deep experience representing crash victims across the city and knows how to take on powerful insurance carriers to pursue the full compensation you deserve—for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to help 24/7, offering free consultations with no obligation. At Keith D. Silverstein & Associates, we’ll give your case the personal attention it deserves and fight for your recovery every step of the way. Call 646-813-3922 today to learn more about how we can help you move forward after a crash.
Notes: The information in this accident news post is gathered from secondary sources, including official police and fire department reports, media coverage, and eyewitness statements. Our team at Keith D. Silverstein & Associates has not independently verified all details. If you notice any inaccuracies, please contact us so we can make prompt corrections. Should you wish for this post to be removed, we will honor your request as quickly as possible.
Disclaimer: These posts are meant to highlight the dangers of serious accidents in our region and promote safer driving. Photos used are not from the actual scene. This content is not legal or medical advice and is not intended as a solicitation for business.