New York Truck Accident Lawyers
Were you or a loved one seriously injured in a truck accident in New York City? Collisions with large commercial trucks often result in catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, and overwhelming financial burdens. At Veridian Legal, our skilled NYC truck accident attorneys have a proven track record of success in handling complex truck accident cases. We understand the nuances of New York trucking laws and regulations and will fight tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Choose Veridian Legal for Your New York Truck Accident Case?
The aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming. You need a legal team with the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for your rights. Here's why Veridian Legal is the right choice for your New York truck accident case:
Proven Track Record of Success: We have a history of securing significant settlements and verdicts for our clients in truck accident cases.
In-depth Knowledge of Trucking Laws: Our attorneys have a deep understanding of federal and New York trucking laws and regulations, including the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs).
Extensive Resources for Investigation: We have access to accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists who can help us build a strong case.
Compassionate and Dedicated Legal Team: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a truck accident can take. Our team provides personalized attention and support throughout the legal process.
No Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in New York
Truck accidents can have devastating consequences. Understanding the common causes is crucial for determining liability and building a strong case. Here are some of the most frequent causes we encounter:
Driver Negligence
Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or other distractions can lead to serious accidents.
Drowsy Driving/Fatigue: Truck drivers often face pressure to drive long hours, leading to fatigue and impaired judgment.
Driving Under the Influence: Operating a truck under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and extremely dangerous.
Speeding or Reckless Driving: Exceeding speed limits or driving aggressively increases the risk of losing control and causing an accident.
Failure to Yield the Right-of-Way: Failing to yield to other vehicles or pedestrians can lead to dangerous collisions.
Trucking Company Negligence
Negligent Hiring Practices: Failing to properly screen and train drivers can result in unqualified individuals operating large trucks.
Inadequate Driver Training: Insufficient training on safe operating procedures and New York's specific challenges can increase the risk of accidents.
Failure to Properly Maintain Trucks: Neglecting regular maintenance, such as brake inspections and tire checks, can lead to mechanical failures and accidents.
Pressuring Drivers to Violate Hours-of-Service Regulations: Putting pressure on drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines can lead to fatigue and drowsy driving accidents.
Other Contributing Factors
Defective Truck Parts: Faulty brakes, tires, or other defective components can cause a truck to malfunction and lead to an accident.
Hazardous Road Conditions: Icy roads, poor visibility, and poorly maintained roads can increase the risk of accidents.
Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo: Exceeding weight limits or failing to secure cargo properly can make a truck unstable and difficult to control.
Understanding Truck Driver Regulations in New York
Truck accidents often involve complex legal issues due to the strict regulations governing the trucking industry. At Veridian Legal, our New York truck accident lawyers have an in-depth understanding of these regulations and can help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs)
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets forth comprehensive safety regulations for commercial motor vehicles, known as the FMCSRs. These regulations cover various aspects of trucking operations, including:
Hours-of-Service (HOS) Rules: These rules limit the number of hours truck drivers can drive to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Violations, such as exceeding driving limits or failing to take mandatory rest breaks, can be a significant factor in truck accident cases.
Cargo Securement Regulations: Improperly secured cargo can shift or fall from a truck, creating a hazardous situation for other vehicles. The FMCSRs specify how cargo must be loaded, secured, and inspected to prevent these accidents.
Driver Qualification Requirements: To ensure that only qualified individuals operate commercial trucks, the FMCSRs set standards for driver licensing, medical examinations, and driving experience. These requirements help to minimize accidents caused by unqualified or unfit drivers.
Our attorneys at Veridian Legal can help determine if any violations of the FMCSRs contributed to your truck accident, which can be crucial in establishing liability and securing compensation.
New York State Trucking Regulations
In addition to the FMCSRs, New York State has its own set of trucking regulations that may apply to your case. These regulations cover areas such as:
Weight and Size Limits: New York State and New York City have specific restrictions on the weight and dimensions of commercial trucks operating within the state. Overloaded or oversized trucks can be more difficult to control and increase the risk of accidents.
Commercial Vehicle Inspections: New York requires regular inspections of commercial vehicles to ensure they meet safety standards. If a truck involved in an accident failed to pass a required inspection, it could indicate negligence on the part of the trucking company.
Special Permits: Certain types of cargo or oversized vehicles may require special permits to operate in New York. If a truck involved in an accident was operating without the necessary permits, it could be a factor in determining liability.
Our attorneys are well-versed in both federal and New York State trucking regulations and can help you understand how they apply to your specific case.
Types of Truck Accidents We Handle
Jackknife Accidents: These occur when the trailer swings out at an angle from the cab, often due to braking or turning sharply on slippery surfaces. Jackknife accidents can cause multi-vehicle pileups and are particularly dangerous on highways.
Rollover Accidents: Due to their high center of gravity, trucks are prone to rollovers, especially when speeding or taking curves too fast. Rollovers often result in severe injuries due to the force of impact and potential ejection.
Underride Accidents: These occur when a smaller vehicle slides under a truck's trailer, often due to inadequate underride guards. Underride accidents can be fatal for occupants of the smaller vehicle.
Rear-End Collisions: Trucks have longer stopping distances, making them more likely to rear-end other vehicles, especially in traffic. These collisions can cause whiplash and other serious injuries.
Head-On Collisions: These are among the most dangerous types of truck accidents, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. They can occur due to driver negligence, such as distracted driving or crossing the center line.
Lost Load Accidents: Improperly secured cargo can fall from a truck, creating hazards for other vehicles and potentially causing collisions.
Blindspot Accidents: Large trucks have significant blind spots, making it difficult for drivers to see smaller vehicles around them. This can lead to lane change accidents and other collisions.
Injuries Sustained in Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often result in severe and life-altering injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. These injuries can have a profound impact on your physical and emotional well-being, as well as your financial stability.
Common Truck Accident Injuries:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, resulting in cognitive impairments, memory loss, personality changes, and physical disabilities.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and other debilitating conditions, often requiring lifelong medical care and assistance.
Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a truck accident can cause multiple fractures, leading to long-term pain, mobility issues, and the need for extensive rehabilitation.
Internal Organ Damage: Internal bleeding and organ damage can be life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention and potentially resulting in long-term health complications.
Burns and Lacerations: Truck accidents can cause severe burns, leading to permanent scarring, disfigurement, and ongoing medical treatment.
Amputations: In some cases, the severity of injuries may necessitate amputation of limbs, resulting in significant physical and emotional challenges.
Wrongful Death: Tragically, truck accidents can result in fatalities, leaving families devastated and facing immense emotional and financial hardship.
If you've sustained any of these injuries in a truck accident, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention and consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer to understand your legal options.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in New York
Knowing what to do after a truck accident can be crucial for protecting your health, preserving evidence, and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are the essential steps to take:
Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if you don't feel seriously injured, it's crucial to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
Call the Police and Report the Accident: A police report provides an official record of the accident and can be valuable evidence in your claim.
Gather Information at the Scene: If possible, collect information from the truck driver, trucking company, and any witnesses, including names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
Document the Accident: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, your injuries, and any contributing factors, such as road conditions or cargo spills.
Contact a New York Truck Accident Attorney: An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Do Not Speak to the Trucking Company's Insurance Adjuster: Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts. It's best to have an attorney present during any conversations with the insurance company to protect your interests.
How Our Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
At Veridian Legal, our experienced truck accident attorneys will provide comprehensive legal support and guidance, including:
Conducting a Thorough Investigation: We will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and interview witnesses to determine liability.
Gathering and Preserving Evidence: We will collect and analyze all relevant evidence, including police reports, driver logs, maintenance records, and expert testimony.
Identifying All Liable Parties: We will identify all responsible parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, truck owner, and others, to ensure you receive full compensation.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: We will handle all communication with insurance companies and fight for a fair settlement that covers your damages.
Filing a Lawsuit and Representing You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights.
Fighting for Maximum Compensation: We will fight to secure the maximum compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
NYC Truck Accident Injury Data
Truck accidents are a significant cause of serious injuries and fatalities in New York City. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), in 2019, there were 4,686 large truck crashes, resulting in 5,707 injuries and 113 fatalities in New York State. These statistics highlight the importance of seeking experienced legal representation if you've been involved in a truck accident in New York City.
Truck Accident FAQ
What if I was partially at fault for the truck accident?
New York follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault.
How much time do I have to file a truck accident claim in New York?
The statute of limitations is generally three years from the accident date, but exceptions may apply.
What types of damages can I recover in a truck accident case?
You may be able to recover economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering).
Contact Our Experienced New York Truck Accident Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in New York, contact us today for a free consultation. We'll review your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. We are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.