Long Island Truck Accident Lawyer

Over 500,000 truck accidents are reported annually in the United States, which is exceptionally high. These collisions are more deadly since they frequently involve bigger, heavier cars.

Over 4,000 persons lost their lives in accidents involving big trucks in 2023. If you require legal aid after a truck collision, remember to call the police immediately and keep the occurrence confidential from anybody other than your attorney.

The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm is ready to assist you if you were involved in a truck accident in Long Island due to a negligent driver. Our experienced personal injury attorneys specialize in representing truck accident victims across Long Island.

We offer personalized, aggressive, and strategic legal representation to achieve your deserved compensation.

Quick thinking is essential after a truck accident. You must file your claim immediately to protect your right to compensation.

Call our expert Long Island truck accident attorneys to assist you during this challenging period.

How to Find a Long Island Truck Accident Attorney

Suffering severe injuries in a truck accident can be life-altering, potentially resulting in fatal outcomes. The financial burden of medical expenses and other costs can quickly escalate.

If someone else’s negligence caused the accident, they might be liable for your damages.

You should work with a truck accident attorney from Long Island who specializes in handling cases involving semi-trucks. Our qualified personal injury attorneys are ready to take on your case so you can focus on getting better while we take care of the complicated legal issues.

Hiring legal counsel is unnecessary, but having a skilled legal team helps protect your rights and interests.

When you choose us, our truck accident attorneys in Long Island, NY, will undertake several critical tasks:

• Investigate the accident’s circumstances
• Identify the cause of the accident
• Collect and secure evidence to support your claim
• Work with medical and accident reconstruction experts to assess your injuries
• Negotiate with insurance companies and other relevant parties on your behalf

Our team is skilled at negotiating with insurers and responsible parties to secure fair compensation. If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to trial.

We offer a free consultation for those considering legal representation after a truck accident in Long Island.

Why Hire a Long Island Truck Accident Law Firm?

Hiring our Long Island personal injury attorney for your truck accident case can significantly affect the outcome of your claims. Given the complexity of truck accidents, which often involve multiple parties and significant damages, it is essential to have an expert and experienced local attorney who understands the specific legal procedure of Long Island.

Local Expertise in Complex Investigations

Truck accidents on Long Island require thorough investigations to determine the cause and to identify all responsible parties. A Long Island attorney, familiar with the aspects of local traffic laws and regulations, will be adept at gathering essential evidence and collaborating with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case.

This regional insight is essential for effectively managing the complexities of truck accident claims in the area.

Compassionate and Attentive Representation

The consequences of truck accidents can be severe, with victims facing extensive medical bills and long-term recovery challenges. A Long Island Attorney provides personalized and compassionate legal representation, fully assessing your medical and rehabilitation needs.

This includes future medical considerations to secure comprehensive compensation for immediate and long-term needs.

Years of Experience with Local Impact

Experience is vital in battling truck accident claims, especially against large trucking companies and insurance carriers. Long Island attorneys bring years of collective experience in handling such cases locally.

Their strong record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements on Long Island demonstrates their capability and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for their clients.

Strategic Advantage in Local Courts

Another advantage of hiring a Long Island attorney is familiarity with the local court system. Understanding the tendencies of local judges and juries can be crucial in formulating a successful litigation strategy.

This local advantage ensures your case is handled efficiently and effectively, maximizing your chances for a favorable outcome.

After suffering injuries in a truck accident on Long Island, getting in touch with an experienced local lawyer ensures you will receive expert legal counsel considering the region’s advantages and challenges. With over years of experience handling cases, The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm is qualified to provide the persistent defense and one-on-one care needed to fight for your rights and recover your just compensation.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Long Island?

Being involved in a truck accident can be extremely difficult and intimidating. The process can seem never-ending from the beginning to the end of the case.

Knowing the essential steps immediately after the accident can ease stress for victims and their attorneys. Here are crucial steps to follow:

Contact 911 Immediately

Calling 911 is critical in any emergency, especially a truck accident. This ensures everyone’s safety and initiates a formal report and investigation by law enforcement, providing a detailed account of the event.

Seek Medical Attention

It’s vital for all involved, whether injured or seemingly unscathed, to go to the hospital immediately. Injuries might not be apparent initially, and medical documentation is crucial for future legal claims.

Document Everything

To strengthen your case, gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos and videos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any injuries.

This documentation can be invaluable in legal proceedings.

Consult a Long Island Truck Accident Lawyer

Engage a competent truck accident lawyer early on. Law firms like The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm specialize in such cases and can prevent insurance companies from undercompensating victims.

Report to the DMV

If the damage from the accident exceeds $1,001, filing a Motor Vehicle Accident Report with the Department of Motor Vehicles is required by law.

Adhere to Medical Advice

Follow your doctor’s instructions closely to aid your recovery and strengthen your case. Consistent medical treatment is often correlated with more substantial settlements.

Keep a Record of Your Recovery

Documenting the recovery process can significantly influence the outcome of your case. Detailed records of how the injuries have impacted your daily life can help you negotiate a fair settlement.

Avoid Social Media

Refrain from discussing the accident on social media. Comments or photos shared online can be misinterpreted and used against you in court.

By taking these steps, you can protect your rights and more effectively handle the circumstances of a truck accident.

How Is a Truck Accident Claim different from a Car Accident?

Truck accident claims are significantly more complex than those involving only cars, primarily due to the sheer size and weight of trucks. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, causing more severe accidents and extensive physical evidence that must be evaluated.

Furthermore, truck drivers often have the backing of their employers, who provide legal and investigative support aimed at minimizing the company’s liability. This support includes a robust legal team and investigators.

The liability in trucking accidents may also involve multiple parties from the cargo-hauling operation, complicating the determination of fault. Knowing the myriad regulations governing the trucking industry is crucial, so it’s essential to work with a lawyer with expertise in these matters. These professionals know how to access and interpret necessary records and reports maintained by trucking companies and their drivers.

For those affected by a truck accident, working with a firm like The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm ensures a thorough investigation is initiated. This includes securing court orders to access all pertinent documents and data, such as the truck’s Event Data Recorder or ‘black box,’ and any onboard recording systems.

Such detailed investigations may require the insight of truck company employees and other third parties, potentially uncovering contributing factors to the accident.

In more intricate cases, specialized consultants like accident reconstruction experts and forensic specialists are brought in to assemble the incident’s details through advanced methods, including CGI animations. These reconstructions and witness testimonies help clarify the events leading up to the accident for the courts.

8 Common Causes of Truck Accidents On Long Island

At The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, our truck accident attorneys in Long Island have extensive experience handling commercial vehicles and the frequent causes of accidents due to negligence by one or more parties.

The following are some typical causes of truck accidents:

• Truck Driver Fatigue: Extensive driving without adequate breaks can lead to severe fatigue among truck drivers. This exhaustion can cause drivers to fall asleep or lose focus, significantly increasing the risk of dangerous accidents.
• Unsecured Loads: Improperly secured cargo can shift or fall, presenting extreme dangers on the road and potentially leading to severe accidents.
• Extended Brake Times: Commercial trucks, due to their considerable size and weight, require longer braking distances to come to a complete stop. Inadequate braking distance can lead to collisions.
• Improper Turning Maneuvers: The safe operation of large trucks requires careful turning with enough space allocated. Failure to do so can result in mishaps, especially at intersections.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Operating any vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and particularly reckless for commercial truck drivers.
• Speeding: Some truck drivers exceed speed limits to meet tight schedules, which can be perilous and lead to accidents.
• Poor Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for the safe operation of trucks. Neglecting routine checks can cause mechanical failures that may lead to fatal accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Engaging with mobile phones or other distractions while driving increases the risk of accidents for truck drivers.

Truck accident victims frequently suffer terrible outcomes. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident on Long Island, our lawyers at The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm are here to provide the assistance and direction required at this challenging time.

Discovering Parties to Hold Liable After a Semi-Truck Accident

When you’re involved in a semi-truck accident, identifying all parties responsible is crucial for recovering compensation, even if you were partially at fault. An experienced truck accident attorney in Long Island can help determine liability and ensure you receive compensation for your losses, pain, and expenses.

Here are potentially liable parties in a commercial truck accident:

Commercial Truck Drivers:

Truck drivers are expected to adhere to defensive driving principles and always stay focused. Distractions or failure to comply with state and federal trucking regulations can lead to serious accidents, making the driver liable.

Trucking Companies:

These companies must hire experienced drivers and provide proper training and oversight. They are also responsible for conducting regular vehicle inspections and maintaining their fleet safely.

If a trucking company fails in these duties, it could be liable for negligence.

Third-Party Road Users:

Drivers, motorcyclists, pedestrians, and bicyclists can also contribute to truck accidents. Their reckless behavior, such as cutting off large trucks or tailgating, might lead to collisions for which they could be held responsible.

Commercial Truck Manufacturers:

Trucking companies rely on manufacturers to produce safe, defect-free vehicles. If an accident occurs due to a vehicle defect or improper maintenance, the manufacturer could be held liable for any resulting damages and injuries.

Government Entities:

State agencies are responsible for maintaining safe road conditions. If an accident is caused by poor road maintenance, and the responsible government agency is aware of the issue, it could be held liable for negligence.

Knowing these potential liabilities can help ensure all responsible parties are held accountable, aiding in a fair recovery process for those affected by a truck accident.

Essential Evidence Collection for a Truck Accident Case

As a devoted firm, our team is committed to systematically gathering all pertinent evidence to support your liability and blame claim.

In the event of a semi-truck collision, our all-inclusive strategy consists of:

• Securing medical records from your healthcare providers to document the extent of your injuries.
• Acquiring detailed reports from the police officers who investigated the scene.
• Conducting interviews with witnesses to obtain firsthand accounts of the incident.
• Examining the driver’s and trucking company’s safety and compliance records.
• Reviewing vehicle inspection reports to identify any pre-existing issues.
• Analyzing the driver’s logs for any discrepancies or violations of regulations.
• Documenting your employment and salary history to assess economic damages.
• Data is extracted from the truck’s event data recorder, commonly known as the “black box,” to reconstruct the accident.
• Investigating maintenance records of the truck to check for regular upkeep and repair.
• Gathering any reports of violations by the truck driver.
• Locating and securing footage from surveillance systems and dashcams that captured the incident.

Types of Damages Available in a Long Island Truck Accident

In truck accident cases, our attorneys from Long Island focus on securing full compensation for victims’ expenses and losses. Compensation in these lawsuits typically includes both economic and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages: These are quantifiable costs directly linked to the accident. Examples include:

• Medical bills for both past and future care
• Property damage
• Lost wages due to missed work
• Reduced earning potential, particularly in cases of disability or disfigurement

These damages are typically straightforward to calculate since they are based on actual expenses incurred, such as medical bills and lost income.

Non-economic Damages: These address the more subjective, intangible effects of an accident. They can cover:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Other psychological impacts

Non-economic damages recognize the broader impact of an accident beyond financial costs.

Punitive damages may also be sought when the defendant’s acts were especially dangerous or careless. These are designed to punish the perpetrator and discourage future instances of the same action, not to compensate for the plaintiff’s lost wages.

Victims of truck accidents in Long Island must discuss all potential losses with their attorneys. A comprehensive claim can ensure that all relevant damages are included in a personal injury lawsuit.

Proper medical documentation and timely legal action are vital to substantiate claims for appropriate compensation.

What Is the Value of a Truck Accident Claim?

After a truck accident, the trucking company may quickly offer you a settlement. While tempting, this initial offer may only cover your most evident damages. At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we assess the true value of each case and resist settling prematurely.

Our methodologies involve preparing every case as though it will proceed to trial, ensuring maximum compensation. A Long Island truck accident attorney from our firm recognizes the substantial physical, emotional, and financial burdens that can follow a collision, which often continues to accumulate.

We collaborate with your medical providers to comprehensively evaluate the impact of your injuries, including:

• Vehicle repairs or replacement
• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and future earning potential
• Necessary physical and emotional therapy
• Pain and suffering
• Diminished quality of life
• Emotional distress, including symptoms of PTSD

The repercussions of a commercial truck accident can be enduring and widespread. Your attorney will understand that a crash can significantly disrupt your life.

When such accidents are caused by the negligence of a truck driver or trucking company, and it becomes evident that their main concern is protecting their financial interests rather than offering you a fair settlement, it feels like adding insult to injury. At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we stand up for your rights and make sure you get the reimbursement you are due.

What if I Can’t Find the Truck Driver Who Hit Me?

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is three years from the date of the incident, as outlined in CVP Law § 214. This legal deadline means any claim must be filed within this period unless special circumstances extend this limit.

The situation can become complex if you’re involved in an accident where a truck driver is at fault. For example, if another vehicle caused the truck to swerve and hit you by cutting it off, you might have the option to sue the driver of that vehicle.

However, identifying and suing them can be challenging if this driver leaves the scene without awareness of the accident.

If the three-year deadline approaches without identifying the responsible party, you might be able to request an extension of the statute of limitations. This is generally only possible if an active and diligent investigation is ongoing.

Our team of truck accident attorneys on Long Island can assist in these efforts to locate and take legal action against a defendant who has fled the scene.

Contact Our Long Island Truck Accident Attorneys for Your Case Evaluation!

The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm offers expert legal services for truck accident claims in Long Island. Our team of expert car accident attorneys specializes in truck accident cases, is well-trained at gathering important evidence for your claim.

We will secure photographs video surveillance of the accident scene and collaborate with accident reconstruction specialists to provide comprehensive insights into the incident.

Our approach includes collecting detailed documentation such as log books, time cards, route schedules, manifests, trip sheets, and more—not only from the day of the accident but also from preceding days and weeks. This helps us to assess whether the driver adhered to the required working protocols.

Additionally, we will gather inspection reports and checklists for the truck involved to ensure that it was maintained properly and that the company complied with all safety protocols. Identifying any lapses in driver policies or truck maintenance is crucial to demonstrating negligence.

The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm is committed to helping clients obtain the financial support necessary for a smoother recovery journey. Touch base with us at (516) 689-1132 or fill out our online form for a free consultation.

FAQ

• How long do I have to file a claim after a truck accident in NY?

In New York, you need to file an insurance claim within 90 days of the accident. For filing a lawsuit, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the injury. Missing these deadlines may prevent you from claiming compensation.

• What damages can I recover after a truck accident in NY?

After a truck accident in New York, you can claim compensation for:

• Property damage
• Medical expenses,
• Costs of adaptive devices
• Pain and suffering,
• Lost wages (past and future)
• Ongoing therapy (physical and occupational),
• Funeral and burial expenses in the event of wrongful death
• Expenses for assistive services such as a personal aide

• How do I choose the right truck accident attorney for my case?

Choosing the right attorney involves evaluating your legal needs and expectations. Get recommendations from your network, research potential firms’ track records and services, and arrange a consultation to see if the law firm meets your needs.