Trucking accidents happen every day in New York and cause serious injuries. Consider these recent examples:
One woman died when a box truck struck her car while traveling on I-90 near Lancaster.
A highway patrol officer and a firefighter were injured when a tractor-trailer failed to move over for stopped emergency vehicles on the Long Island Expressway. The tractor-trailer crashed into the firetruck, then jackknifed and collided with the highway patrol cruiser.
A tractor-trailer involved in a multi-vehicle accident burst into flames near Ramapo, though no injuries were reported.
If you have been involved in a truck accident in New York, it’s important to know the reasons they happen. An experienced NY criminal attorney can help you determine who is at fault for the crash so you can recover your losses.
NY Truck Accident Causes
As with passenger vehicles, there are many reasons why truck accidents occur in New York. These are the most common reasons truck accidents happen.
Driver Errors
Human error plays a big role in truck accidents. Drivers may fail to use the brakes properly. They may not navigate the blind spots well, when visibility of other drivers is low. Drivers can also make abrupt lane changes, fail to yield, or improperly merge onto the highway.
They may not have gotten sufficient training for driving big trucks. Drivers may use aggressive techniques like speeding or tailgating. They may also be sleep-deprived or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Any of these factors could have caused your injury.
Manufacturer Failures
If the manufacturer of the truck or the truck parts failed to ensure that their product would not malfunction, they can be held liable for damages. Common problems that lead to accidents include blown tires, transmission problems, failed brakes, and lighting that malfunctions. The manufacturer may be responsible for faulty parts or assembly.
Cargo Failures
If the cargo that the truck is carrying causes harm during the crash, the company that was responsible for loading the cargo could be held responsible for damages. Another entity who may be held responsible is whoever contacted the tractor trailer to arrange for cargo transport.
Coordination Failures
Trucking companies use a system of routing and loading to transport goods. If any link in the system failed due to negligence, the responsible entity could be named in a personal injury lawsuit.
Frequently, more than one of these causes can play into a truck accident. You will need the help of a knowledgeable attorney to identify each party responsible for your injuries. The more entities involved, the more complicated a case can become.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit in New York
Lawsuits against trucking companies, operators, or manufacturers can be complex. This is not a fight to make on your own. Enlist the help of a skilled lawyer who has successfully represented other people who have experienced trucking injuries.
Your attorney will help you fight back against the entities who may resist paying you what you deserve for your medical bills, lost income, property replacement, and pain and suffering related to your injuries. Make sure your rights are protected by a tough lawyer who won’t back down.
Don’t hesitate to contact an NY attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer needs as much time as possible to gather evidence that will strengthen your case.