Truck crashes in New York are always serious because of the size and momentum trucks carry. At Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we have seen firsthand how serious truck accident injuries can be. Our experienced truck accident attorneys have handled all types of truck accident cases, fighting for truck accident victims every step of the way. Now, let us fight for you as well.
A truck accident lawsuit against the responsible party (such as the trucking company or truck driver) can help you recover compensation for your injuries and property damage.
Our New York truck accident lawyers can guide the way. Learn more about truck accidents below. Then, contact our New York truck accident attorney to schedule a free consultation.
Table of Contents
OUR NEW YORK TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER STANDS UP TO NATIONWIDE TRUCKING COMPANIES
There is rarely a "minor" truck accident. The sheer size and weight of an average commercial truck are dramatically larger than those of an average passenger vehicle.
Even in a low-speed collision, this huge difference creates an imbalance of force, and the smaller vehicle will be devastated. The city sees thousands of serious truck accidents annually.
If you were hit by a truck, but now an insurance company is not taking your claim seriously, it is time to get Davidoff Law in New York on your side.
Our law firm has the experience and insight required to challenge nationwide trucking companies and the major insurance companies that usually protect them from liability. While you care for yourself, we can take care of every aspect of your case.
We can help by:
- Investigating the circumstances of your truck accident.
- Finding and using important evidence of liability.
- Calculating your damages.
- Filing a claim and answering replies.
- Negotiating for a settlement.
- Litigating in court on your behalf.
HOW TRUCK ACCIDENTS HAPPEN
Behind every truck accident is some form of negligence or recklessness. However, it is a question of what type of negligence was committed and who conducted it. With us leading the way during your case, you can be confident that we will figure out what happened, who did it, and how it could have been avoided with more care.
Four common causes of truck accidents include:
- Exhaustion: Truck drivers can be scheduled for 14 hours in a single shift, with only 3 hours taken as a break. As a result of these egregiously long shifts, many truck drivers work while completely exhausted, which naturally increases the risk of a truck accident.
- Impairment: To combat exhaustion, some truck drivers use stimulant medications to stay awake. This plan is not safe or effective, though. Stimulants cause unsafe side effects like the inability to concentrate. Also, once a stimulant wears off, the exhaustion that it delayed will come back even worse than before.
- Speeding: Most truck drivers are not paid by the hour. Instead, they are paid by the mile driven or route completed. To try to finish a route faster and avoid exhaustion, some truck drivers break posted speed limits, putting themselves and other motorists in danger.
- Unsafe cargo: Poorly loaded cargo can directly cause a truck accident. For example, if a trailer is overloaded and top-heavy, then it can cause the truck to tip over during sharp turns or amid strong gusts of winds.
Types of Truck Accidents We See
Truck accidents are among the most severe on the road and can result in substantial damage and injuries. Here are some common types of truck accidents that occur.
Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents happen when a truck's trailer swings out and forms an acute angle with the cab. This is often caused by sudden braking or slippery road conditions. These accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic, creating dangerous situations for all vehicles involved.
To avoid these incidents, truck drivers on Staten Island must be particularly cautious on wet roads.
Rollovers
Truck rollovers occur when the driver loses control and the truck tips over on its side or roof. This can happen due to speeding, improper loading, or taking turns too quickly.
Rollovers can be especially hazardous if the truck is carrying hazardous materials. Such accidents are not uncommon on Staten Island's curved roadways and exits.
Rear-End Collisions
Given trucks' weight and stopping distance, rear-end collisions can be devastating. These accidents often occur in heavy traffic or when drivers are distracted.
The impact of a truck hitting a smaller vehicle from behind can cause catastrophic damage and injuries. Drivers in Staten Island should maintain a safe distance from trucks to minimize this risk.
Underride Accidents
Underride accidents are particularly deadly. They occur when a smaller vehicle goes underneath the truck's trailer. This can happen if the truck stops suddenly or the smaller vehicle follows too closely. These accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities because the top of the passenger vehicle can be sheared off. Safety measures like underride guards and attentive driving can prevent these tragic accidents.
Lost Load Accidents
Lost load accidents happen when items fall from a truck due to improper securing or overloading. This debris can create obstacles that lead to accidents for other drivers. Truck drivers must ensure that cargo is securely fastened to prevent these accidents. Staten Island's busy ports and industrial areas are particularly prone to these incidents.
Steps You Need To Take After a New York Truck Accident
- Check for injuries and call 911. Immediately check yourself and others for injuries after a truck accident. If there are any injuries, call 911 immediately to get medical help and report the accident.
- Move to safety. If it's safe, move to the side of the road away from traffic to avoid further accidents. Use your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Exchange information. Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and other parties involved. Also, make sure to get the truck's license plate and the company name.
- Document the scene. Take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, visible damages, and road conditions. This documentation can be vital for your claim.
- Look for witnesses. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information. They may provide important statements that support your version of the events.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you don't think you are seriously injured, seeing a doctor is important. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Contact a lawyer. Consult with a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and work to secure compensation for your injuries.
CATASTROPHIC INJURIES CAUSED BY TRUCK ACCIDENTS
As mentioned, the average truck accident can cause life-changing injuries instantly. We focus our practice on cases brought by catastrophically injured clients and the family members of people who passed away in a crash. If the stakes are high, trust in our firm to handle things.
Examples of catastrophic injuries caused by truck accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI): A head or brain injury will often cause permanent disabilities and complications, like memory issues, speech impediments, etc. Special treatments and care might be necessary for years.
- Spinal cord injury: A violent truck accident can cause the victim to suffer a back injury, which might be as severe as damage to the spinal cord. Spinal cord injuries can cause immediate and permanent paralysis.
- Amputation: Severe damage to a limb can result in an amputation, medical or otherwise. Prosthetics can help regain some dexterity or mobility, but the patient's life will never be the same again.
- Multiple broken bones: When a bone is broken, it needs to be set correctly and given time to heal. If a bone fracture does not heal properly, then it could cause lifelong complications and be considered a "catastrophic" injury.
- Permanent disfigurements: Scarring and disfigurements in visible places like the face or neck can be considered life-changing. The victim might become self-conscious of their appearance and experience a lessened enjoyment of life as a result.
SEND YOUR CASE WITH CONFIDENCE – CALL NOW
Protecting your future well-being and finances is the top priority when you bring your case to our New York truck accident attorneys.
Your case could be in a tough fight if the insurance company does not want to admit that the truck driver did anything wrong, which is the norm. Prepare for the worst by putting Davidoff Law in charge, and you will feel the situation's stress disappear immediately.
How Much Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth
Determining the value of a truck accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and how the accident has affected your life. Medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering all play a role in calculating the claim's worth.
The trucking company's insurance coverage limits can also affect the settlement amount. Each case is unique, so working with an experienced attorney who can evaluate all aspects of your accident is important.
In addition to economic damages, non-economic damages such as pain and suffering are also considered. If the accident resulted in long-term or permanent disability, you might be entitled to a higher compensation.
Sometimes punitive damages are awarded if the truck driver's conduct was particularly reckless. Working with a knowledgeable lawyer can help ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve for your losses and suffering.
Contact Our New York Truck Accident Lawyer To Schedule a Free Case Consultation
A truck accident can result in catastrophic injuries, but you do not have to face them alone. At Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers, our attorneys investigate truck accidents involving semi trucks every day. Our New York City truck accident lawyers can now fight for your rights. See a doctor first. Then, contact us to schedule a free case consultation.
CALL (212) 900-0000 TO LEARN MORE ABOUT STARTING AND FILING A TRUCK ACCIDENT CLAIM.
TRUCK ACCIDENT FAQ
CAN MULTIPLE PARTIES BE LIABLE FOR A TRUCK ACCIDENT?
Yes, multiple parties can be liable for a truck accident, including the truck driver, trucking company, manufacturers of truck parts, and other drivers, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON TYPE OF TRUCK ACCIDENT?
The most common type of truck accident is a rear-end collision, where a truck hits the vehicle in front due to its large stopping distance or driver distraction.
WHAT IS A JACKKNIFE ACCIDENT?
A jackknife accident occurs when a truck's trailer swings out and forms a sharp angle with the cab, often caused by sudden braking, slippery roads, or improper handling by the driver.
IS IT EXPENSIVE TO HIRE A TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER?
Hiring a truck accident lawyer can vary in cost, but many work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive compensation, typically taking a percentage of the settlement or award.
