New York City Truck Accident Attorneys Ready to Fight for You

Advocating for Truck Accident Victims Across New York

At Restivo & Murphy LLP, our truck accident attorneys in New York City bring more than 60 years of combined experience handling complex cases involving truck accidents in New York. Our attorneys regularly travel to represent clients throughout New York City's 5 boroughs, as well as Long Island, Nassau County, and Suffolk County.

When an 18-wheeler collides with another vehicle, the truck’s size and weight usually mean that catastrophic or even fatal injuries will result. Cases like these involve numerous complications, and there is too much at stake to trust this type of litigation to a legal team that lacks experience handling major personal injury litigation. With our deep understanding of New York County's legal landscape, we are adept at navigating the complexities that such cases entail, from local regulations to detailed accident reconstructions.

Call (800) 997-9109 today to schedule a free consultation with our New York City truck accident lawyers.

Key Statistics on Truck Accidents in New York City

Accidents with trucks and commercial vehicles are very common in New York City. As of September 2019, there were 1,443 accidents involving trucks of any kind in the city. That rounds out to be around 48 truck accidents in New York City every day.

Given the city's busy streets and dense traffic, these numbers emphasize the critical need for legal representation to ensure that victims' rights are fully protected. Understanding regional data can provide valuable insights into accident trends, helping our lawyers craft strategic approaches tailored to New York's specific challenges. In addition to these statistics, it is crucial to note how local road conditions and city infrastructure contribute to the frequency and severity of big rig accidents, making personalized legal strategies even more essential.

The majority of collisions happen in the following areas:

• 30% in Manhattan
• 28% in Brooklyn
• 21% in Queens
• 19% in The Bronx
• >1% in Staten Island

Filing a Lawsuit After a Semi-Truck Accident in New York

If you were in an accident with a semi-truck in New York, you may be left with serious injuries and financial damages. To sue and file a lawsuit against the truck driver and/or the trucking company, you must prove they were negligent in causing the accident. After that is proven, the victims may seek damages by filing a lawsuit.

Establishing negligence involves gathering substantial evidence, including witness statements, police reports, and expert analyses, all critical components when seeking an effective resolution. Our dedicated legal team meticulously reviews all aspects of your case to ensure all negligent parties are held accountable. 

We guide clients through each step of the lawsuit process to facilitate an understanding of their legal rights and options. We also assist in securing evidence from traffic cameras, GPS data, and electronic logging devices, crucial in building a strong case for maximum compensation.

All you have to do is call our NY truck accident lawyers at (800) 997-9109 and schedule a free consultation.

Strategies for Maximizing Compensation in Truck Accident Cases

Tractor-trailer accident cases involve complications that must be handled properly to maximize compensation.

At Restivo & Murphy LLP, we have experience handling all of the important aspects of 18-wheeler accident litigation, including:

• Evidence: Truck claims involve research into accident reconstruction, potential logbook violations, evidence of drug or alcohol use while driving, and other complex factors.
• A complex legal landscape: Our attorneys have experience and knowledge of the various laws and industry regulations involved with truck accident claims.
• Medical costs: Our lawyers are knowledgeable and diligent in obtaining all relevant information regarding medications, intensive medical procedures, and other long-term medical costs associated with catastrophic injuries. We are also skilled at presenting this knowledge to juries in a way they will understand to help our clients obtain maximum compensation.
• Intense litigation: Because there is so much at stake, trucking companies and their insurance companies fight these cases aggressively.

In addition to compiling evidence, our team works with industry experts to meticulously prepare each case for possible trial scenarios. By proactively anticipating the defense's strategy, we are better equipped to counteract it, thus ensuring our clients have the best possible opportunity for a favorable outcome. 

Our firm has cultivated relationships with renowned expert witnesses who provide critical testimonies that support the claims of negligence and liability. With a track record of successful verdicts and settlements, we have built a reputation for seeking out every possible avenue for maximizing our clients' compensation.

Identifying Liability in Truck Accidents

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, the first issue that needs to be addressed in filing your claim is identifying who can be held liable for the accident. This requires a proper investigation of the accident conducted by a skilled legal team that has extensive experience handling the complexities of truck accident claims.

At Restivo & Murphy LLP, we have the knowledge and resources to properly investigate your case and determine all the parties that are responsible for your accident and injuries. We are committed to holding every liable party responsible to maximize your compensation.

There are several parties that may be responsible for your accident, including:

Complex multi-party liability requires an intricate understanding of how these entities operate and interact legally and operationally. Our approach includes a thorough forensic investigation that seeks to uncover hidden factors like regulatory violations or contract breaches that may have contributed to the accident. 

This comprehensive strategy maximizes legal leverage and compensation potential. By drawing on our extensive experience in navigating local legal jurisdictions in New York County, we ensure that every liable party is held to account, providing our clients with the resources to achieve justice.

The Importance of Hiring a Lawyer After a Truck Accident

If you were involved in an accident with a commercial truck, it is important to consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Our dedicated truck accident attorneys in New York can assess your case and provide legal advice on how to best pursue compensation for any injuries or damages that you suffered in the accident.

In addition, our skilled legal team can handle documentation and other legal aspects of the case so that you can focus on recovering. Our experience with the commercial truck industry and its regulations can strengthen your legal case against the responsible party. We prioritize keeping our clients informed throughout the legal process, ensuring transparency and fostering trust.

New York Truck Accident Laws & Regulations

New York State has implemented specific laws and regulations governing the operation of commercial trucks, which can have significant implications in accident cases. For example, New York's no-fault insurance law requires that claims primarily be handled through insurance companies, but there are exceptions, especially where severe injuries are involved. 

Understanding these exceptions can be crucial in determining the direction of a legal claim. Additionally, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that commercial drivers adhere to specific hours of service regulations designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Violations of these laws are often critical points in establishing negligence.

At Restivo & Murphy LLP, our detailed knowledge of both state and federal regulations guides our approach in building robust cases. Our team is adept at uncovering any breaches in compliance that may have directly contributed to the incident, thereby bolstering our clients' claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately Following a Big Rig Accident?

Immediately following a big rig accident, ensure your safety first. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further collisions. It's crucial to call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Once emergency services arrive, provide a clear account of the incident without speculating on details you’re unsure about. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. 

Gathering contact information from witnesses and other parties involved is also helpful. Contact your insurance company to report the accident, but refrain from giving detailed statements until after consulting with a lawyer. Reaching out to a big rig accident attorney can be pivotal, as they can advise on the next steps, ensure preservation of important evidence, and navigate discussions with insurance providers or liable parties.

How Is Fault Determined in New York Big Rig Accidents?

Fault determination in New York big rig accidents involves examining numerous factors, including the truck driver’s conduct, adherence to traffic laws, and potential mechanical failures. Evidence from the accident scene is critical in this regard—police reports, witness testimonies, and video footage from surrounding traffic cameras can provide insights into the events leading to the collision.

 Additionally, data from the truck’s electronic logging device (ELD) can reveal the driver's compliance with mandated hours of service. The process may also include accident reconstruction experts who can analyze details to recreate how the accident occurred. By leveraging our comprehensive resources, including expert witnesses and key data analysis, Restivo & Murphy LLP can build a compelling case to clearly establish liability.

What Are the Time Limits for Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including those arising from big rig accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident. If the accident results in wrongful death, the time limit is decreased to two years from the date of death. It is crucial to adhere strictly to these timeframes; failing to file within them can bar the right to recovery altogether. 

However, some unique circumstances can affect these time limits, such as those involving municipal liability, where notice of a claim must be filed much sooner. Given these complexities, consulting with Restivo & Murphy LLP as soon as possible can ensure all procedural deadlines are met, protecting your ability to seek compensation.

Contact Our New York City Truck Accident Lawyers for Help

Obtaining a fair settlement that covers the losses you incur from your injuries is a critical aspect of your recovery. Before talking to an insurance company that wants to offer you a settlement, be sure to consult with our New York City truck accident attorneys. We know how to protect your rights and interests, and we can help you maximize the value of your case.

You will not pay attorney fees unless we win your case. Contact our Garden City office for a free consultation at (800) 997-9109 or reach out online.