Why Choose The Barnes Firm for
Your Truck Accident Case?
- Our legal team is led by over 40 attorneys across the United States with over 500 years of combined experience.
- Our mission is to help achieve the best result possible for each and every client through zealous representation, outstanding legal service, and a dedication to fighting for maximum compensation possible.
- We have handled more than 150,000 accident and injury cases, resulting in more than $2.5 billion in recovery for our injured clients.
- Our attorneys have been recognized for excellence by Best Lawyers in America, LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review, Super Lawyers, Million Dollar Advocates Forum, National Trial Lawyers, and many other respected organizations.
- We always offer free consultations with our experienced attorneys with no obligation to hire our firm. If you choose The Barnes Firm, you pay nothing unless we obtain compensation for you.
- Our clients have provided reviews for us due to our outstanding and committed service and representation.
- Our reach spans across the nation, with offices located in Los Angeles, Rochester, Oakland, New York City, Long Island, San Diego, and Buffalo.
New York Truck Accident Lawyer
New York City is the most populated city in the United States, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that trucks can be found in the city every day – carrying people, goods, and construction equipment throughout the five boroughs. Some commercial trucks can be over 30 feet long and weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making it difficult to navigate narrow city streets and congested neighborhoods. Being so large and carrying so much weight in such densely populated neighborhoods can lead to tuck accidents with severe injuries, especially when they collide with smaller vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 and speak with an experienced attorney. Our team of truck accident attorneys have served New York City for decades and are committed to helping clients get the best result possible.
Why Do I Need a NYC Truck Accident Lawyer?
On average, there are over 500 truck accidents that occur each month in New York City. Because injuries sustained tend to be more severe, the damages you can recover from a truck accident tend to be higher. Insurance companies know truck accident victims can obtain more compensation and will likely do everything in their power to try to undervalue your claim and settle quickly.
At The Barnes Firm, we know the tactics insurance companies will use to try to settle a claim and are here to help. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, don’t accept the first offer from insurance. Instead, call our trusted team of New York City truck accident lawyers and find out what your case is worth – you might be surprised.
When you partner with our team of NYC truck accident lawyers at The Barnes Firm, you can be assured that we will:
- Launch an investigation into your truck accident and the details surrounding it
- Determine all possible causes, at fault, and liability
- Protect you against counterclaims from the other party
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Handle all day-to-day aspects of your case such as medical treatment and records
- Prepare your case and take it to court, if necessary
Types of New York City Truck Accidents
At The Barnes Firm, our team of truck accident attorneys are equipped to handle New York City truck accident cases. With over 100 years of combined experience, our team has successfully handled cases involving:
- Semi-trucks
- Garbage trucks
- Cement trucks
- Commercial vehicles
- Tractor trailers
- Dump trucks
- Tow trucks
- FedEx, UPS, USPS, Amazon, and other delivery trucks
Our team is equipped to handle all types of truck accidents, including:
- Blind spot accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Side Impact/T-bone accidents
- Rollover incidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Jackknife accidents
- Speeding accidents
- And more
Commercial vehicle accident claims can be more complicated because they usually involve large trucking companies, commercial insurance companies, and large legal teams. Therefore, it is best to call The Barnes Firm immediately after being injured in a truck accident. From the first phone conversation through to the final settlement, our team of New York City truck accident lawyers will work hard for you every step of the way. Call The Barnes Firm today for a FREE case evaluation.
Who is Responsible for a Truck Accident in New York City?
Depending on the circumstances surrounding the truck accident you were involved in, multiple parties may be held responsible. These parties could include:
- Truck drivers
- Truck maintenance company
- Manufacturers
- Truck companies
- The company who loaded the truck
- Municipalities
- Third-party drivers
Because of the multiple parties that could be liable for a truck accident, it is critical you have an experienced attorney on your side to determine all parties who are at fault. Our team of New York City truck accident lawyers will provide you with the trusted representation you deserve. We’re here to help guide you every step of the way.
Common Causes of NYC Truck Accidents
There are multiple factors that can cause truck accidents. Our team of NYC truck accident lawyers have found some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:
- Fatigue. In order to fulfill shipping demands, truckers often drive for long hours. There are rules and regulations in place for how long a trucker can drive per shift and how much rest they need to get between shifts. Unfortunately, these guidelines are often ignored, and fatigued truck drivers are a main cause of truck accidents.
- Unsecured Loads. When a truck driver, manufacturer, or owner fails to properly secure a load and it falls from a truck, it can cause a truck accident by hitting another driver or becoming dangerous debris in the road.
- Brake Time. Due to their heavy weight, trucks cannot stop as quickly as other vehicles. When a truck driver fails to properly estimate the distance between them and the vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian in front of them, a rear-end accident can occur.
- Improper Turning. Because trucks are so long, they require more space to turn. Truck drivers who do not give themselves proper space to turn, or don’t check their blind spots before turning often cause sideswipe accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI). Driving under the influence is dangerous for any driver, but especially one operating a vehicle weighing tens of thousands of pounds. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in all 50 states. All truck accidents caused by driving under the influence are preventable.
- Speeding. Truck drivers face tight deadlines and unfortunately, speeding is one common way they make up lost time. Driving faster than the speed limit creates unsafe road conditions for all drivers and can lead to truck accidents.
- Distracted Driving. Anything from eating while driving to texting, talking on the phone, and even playing with the radio can take a truck driver’s eyes off the road and distract them from driving responsibly, leading to a truck accident.
- Poor Truck Maintenance. Truckers and trucking companies are required to maintain proper inspections on all vehicles. This includes making sure truck drivers have the experience needed to operate a truck. Poor truck maintenance and inexperienced drivers can be extremely dangerous and cause truck accidents.
The New York City truck accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm will take all aspects of your truck crash into consideration when investigating your case. For a FREE case evaluation, call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000.
Alex Bouganim – Personal Injury Lawyer in Manhattan, NY
“Alex Bouganim is the managing attorney at the Manhattan Office of The Barnes Firm. As managing attorney, Alex is responsible for overseeing all of the cases in the Manhattan Office. In addition to focusing his practice on general negligence cases, including car accidents, slip/trip and falls, and wrongful death cases, Alex is the Co-Chair of the firm’s construction site accident department. “
Truck Accident Injuries
There are several injuries that can result from a truck crash. Some of the most common truck accident injuries include:
After being injured in a truck accident, your injuries may not appear right away. In some cases, it can take hours, days, or weeks for symptoms to show. It is important to seek medical attention after a truck accident. A medical professional can help identify and explain your injuries after an accident and get you on the road to recovery.
What to do After Being Involved in a Truck Accident
After being involved in a truck accident, many people don’t know where to turn. The trusted truck accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm are available 24/7 to answer any questions you have after a truck accident. If you’ve been involved in a New York City truck accident:
- Call 911 to report the accident and request an ambulance, if necessary.
- Collect evidence from the accident scene, including:
- Other drivers personal and insurance information
- Police report
- Photos of the accident, vehicles, and injuries
- Witness information
- Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, your symptoms may not have shown up yet, or you may have an undetected internal injury.
- Contact a New York City truck accident attorney at The Barnes Firm. In New York State, you have three years after the date of accident or injury discovery to file a personal injury claim.
Damages to Recover in a Truck Accident
At The Barnes Firm, our team of knowledgeable truck accident attorneys will work hard to hold all negligent parties responsible after a truck accident. We will help recover compensation for all damages including:
- Lost wages
- Medical costs
- Disability
- Pain and suffering
- Lost future earnings
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement, and more
If you were injured in a truck accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. The Barnes Firm is here to help you get the best result possible for your case. In New York State, you have three years from the date of accident or the date of injury discovery to file a personal injury claim. Call our team of New York City truck accident lawyers today to get started on filing your claim.
Call the Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys at The Barnes Firm Today
If you or a loved one have been injured in a New York City truck accident, call The Barnes Firm today. Our team of truck accident lawyers are here to help you go over your legal options and develop a plan to help you get the best result possible.
Don’t wait another minute through pain, suffering, and lost wages. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 – it might be the best call you make.
Common Damages in a Truck Accident Case
When you’re involved in a truck accident in New York City, the aftermath can have a profound effect on both your physical and emotional well-being. The legal term “damages” refers to the compensation you may be entitled to after such an incident.
Below are the most common damages individuals can claim in a truck accident case:
- Medical Expenses: This category is often the most substantial in terms of financial costs. It includes current and future medical bills, including surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and any other necessary treatments.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost income. This includes not only the wages you have already lost but also the money you would have made in the future if it were not for the accident (known as loss of earning capacity).
- Pain and Suffering: These damages compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and injuries. While it’s more subjective than other types of damages, it’s often one of the most substantial claims, especially in severe cases.
- Loss of Consortium: If the injuries adversely affect the relationship between you and your spouse (or partner), you might be entitled to loss of consortium damages. This category considers losses like the inability to maintain a sexual relationship or the loss of companionship.
- Property Damage: This covers the cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal belongings that were damaged in the crash.
- Emotional Distress: Serious accidents can lead to psychological impacts such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Damages can be claimed for the emotional and psychological toll the accident takes.
- Wrongful Death: If a loved one dies as a result of the truck accident, family members might be able to claim damages for the loss of financial support, companionship, and the emotional anguish they experience.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the conduct of the defendant is deemed particularly reckless or malicious, the court may award punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate the victim but rather to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from similar behavior.
If you believe you’ve suffered from any of these damages due to a truck accident, consult with experienced legal professionals like The Barnes Firm. Our team can help you accurately estimate the total value of your claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Wrongful Death Claims from Fatal NYC Truck Accidents
The tragedy of losing a loved one in a truck accident is an immeasurable heartbreak that no amount of compensation can truly fix. However, if your family member’s death was a result of negligence or reckless behavior on the part of a truck driver or associated party, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim in New York City. This type of claim seeks to compensate for the various economic and non-economic losses you and your family may have suffered as a result of the unexpected death.
What Constitutes a Wrongful Death in NYC?
A wrongful death claim arises when a person’s death is caused by the wrongful act or negligence of another person or entity.
In the context of truck accidents, this might be due to:
- A truck driver operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Failure to maintain the truck properly, leading to mechanical failure.
- Reckless or aggressive driving, such as speeding or tailgating.
- Companies that overwork their drivers, leading to fatigue-related accidents.
Types of Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: These are direct costs associated with laying your loved one to rest.
- Loss of Income: If the deceased was a primary breadwinner, compensation could be sought for the future earnings that the family will now miss out on.
- Medical Expenses: Any medical bills associated with the deceased’s final treatment or attempts to save their life can be claimed.
- Loss of Companionship: This encompasses the emotional pain and suffering endured due to the loss of love, care, protection, and companionship.
- Loss of Consortium: For the surviving spouse, compensation might be awarded for the loss of marital benefits, including affection, solace, comfort, companionship, society, help, and sexual relations.
- Loss of Parental Guidance: If the deceased had children, compensation might cover the loss of moral upbringing, guidance, care, and physical and emotional support.
- Pain and Suffering of the Deceased: If it’s believed that the deceased experienced significant pain and suffering before passing away, the family might be compensated for this as well.
Proving Liability for Your Truck Crash
In the aftermath of a truck accident in New York City, one of the most important steps toward securing compensation is establishing liability. Proving who is at fault plays a pivotal role in determining the validity of your claim and the amount of compensation you may be entitled to.
Steps to Prove Liability
- Gather Evidence at the Scene: Immediately after the crash, if you are able, collect as much evidence as possible. This includes photographs of the scene, damages to vehicles, any visible injuries, and skid marks. Also, gather contact information from witnesses and statements about what they observed.
- Obtain the Police Report: Always contact the police after a crash. The responding officers will create a report detailing their observations, which can be invaluable when determining fault.
- Check Truck Driver Logs and Company Records: By law, truck drivers are required to keep logs of their driving hours to ensure they’re not on the road for extended, unsafe periods. Overexertion and fatigue can play a role in crashes. Additionally, the trucking company’s maintenance records can unveil any neglect in the vehicle’s upkeep.
- Examine Vehicle Black Box Data: Modern trucks come equipped with electronic control modules (often referred to as “black boxes”) that record data such as speed, brake usage, and more. This data can provide a factual account of the truck’s operations moments before the crash.
- Hire an Expert: Accident reconstruction specialists can analyze the crash scene, vehicle damages, and other pertinent details to recreate the accident’s sequence of events. This can be a compelling piece of evidence in proving liability.
- Review Traffic Laws: By comparing the actions of all involved parties against New York’s traffic laws, you can determine if any violations directly contributed to the crash.
- Track the Cargo Load: If the truck was improperly loaded or overloaded, it could have played a role in the accident. Gathering evidence about the cargo can provide additional insight into potential negligence.
Potential Liable Parties
- The Truck Driver: If they were intoxicated, distracted, speeding, or otherwise negligent.
- The Trucking Company: For neglecting vehicle maintenance, overworking drivers, or not properly vetting their drivers.
- Cargo Loaders: If improperly loaded cargo contributed to the crash.
- Truck Manufacturers: If a defect in the truck or one of its components caused or contributed to the accident.
- Other Drivers: In multi-vehicle accidents, other drivers might share some or all of the blame.
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in New York?
In New York State, victims of truck accidents have a specific timeframe in which they must take legal action, known as the statute of limitations.
Generally, for personal injury claims stemming from truck accidents, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident. However, there are exceptions, especially when dealing with government entities or in cases involving minors.
Consult with our attorneys to understand your specific timeline and make sure that you don’t miss your opportunity to seek compensation.
Why Choose Our NYC Personal Injury Lawyers For Your Truck Accident Case?
At The Barnes Firm, our commitment to delivering unparalleled legal service has consistently been demonstrated through decades of experience, countless successful cases, and a legacy that speaks volumes.
Here’s why you should trust us with your truck accident case:
- Proven Results: Our personal injury attorneys have won millions of dollars in settlements for our clients across a wide array of practice areas, including motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, and workplace injuries.
- Client-Centric Approach: We understand the physical and emotional toll that a personal injury case can have on victims. We are here to ease your burdens. You can trust The Barnes Firm to relentlessly pursue the best possible outcome on your behalf.
- Nationwide Presence with a Personal Touch: With legal professionals on both the East and West Coasts, we’re well-equipped to handle your case, regardless of where you’re located. This national reach, combined with our local touch and personalized approach, ensures that you’re not just another case number but a valued client.
- Prestigious Accreditations and Client Testimonials: Our firm’s excellence is not just recognized by the outcomes we produce but also by prestigious endorsements and accreditations. This includes acknowledgments from institutions like Best Lawyers in America, LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review, and SuperLawyers, to name a few.
- Legacy of Excellence: The Barnes Firm’s foundation is built on the vision of our founder, Steve Barnes, a former Marine Corps officer, combat veteran, and courageous advocate for justice. His 30+ year career bore witness to numerous multi-million-dollar cases, and his unwavering commitment to his client’s best interests is the gold standard we continue to uphold. This legacy is further fortified by Rich Barnes, a distinguished attorney with 40+ years of legal experience, who continues to lead the firm with the same passion and dedication.
- Impressive Case Results: Our track record is a testament to our skill and commitment. From a $7,000,000 motorcycle accident settlement to a $1,300,000 car accident resolution, our results showcase our determination to ensure every client receives the justice they deserve.
At The Barnes Firm, every case is treated with the diligence, focus, and passion it deserves. By trusting us with your truck accident case, you’re ensuring that a team of award-winning attorneys is fighting for your rights every step of the way.
How Do Our Attorneys Investigate Truck Accidents?
A thorough investigation is the cornerstone of a successful truck accident claim.
At The Barnes Firm, our approach includes:
- Scene Analysis: We revisit the accident location to gather evidence, understand the environmental factors, and take note of any surveillance cameras.
- Witness Interviews: Our team seeks out and interviews all potential witnesses to build a comprehensive account of the incident.
- Expert Consultations: We often collaborate with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and other experts to strengthen our client’s cases.
- Document Collection: We meticulously gather all pertinent documents, including police reports, medical records, driver logs, maintenance records, and more.
- Black Box Data Retrieval: As mentioned earlier, this data can provide a factual snapshot of the moments leading up to the crash.
Important Steps To Take After A Truck Accident in NYC
- Prioritize Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check on others involved.
- Call 911: Always report significant accidents, ensuring there’s a legal record and that medical assistance arrives if needed.
- Document the Scene: Take photos, collect information from all parties, and get witness statements.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not manifest immediately. A medical check-up ensures your well-being and provides documentation of any injuries.
- Avoid Speculating or Admitting Fault: Only speak about facts and avoid making speculative statements or admitting guilt.
- Contact Our Attorneys: Seek legal guidance before making statements to insurance adjusters or signing any settlements.
Why You Should Hire an NYC Personal Injury Lawyer After a Truck Accident
After a truck accident in NYC, hiring our personal injury lawyers is crucial for several reasons. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of New York’s personal injury laws, ensuring your case is handled with utmost care.
- We’re skilled at negotiating with insurance companies, who often try to withhold your compensation, ensuring you get the fair settlement you deserve.
- Beyond negotiation, we have the resources and connections to conduct comprehensive investigations into your accident, providing clarity and support for your claims.
- Having our seasoned attorneys handle your case offers you peace of mind. Ultimately, hiring us often results in securing compensation that far exceeds what you might obtain on your own.
Remember, The Barnes Firm is here to stand by your side every step of the way, ensuring you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Client Reviews
What our clients are saying about us
The Barnes Firm was very friendly, always quick to respond to our calls, emails. When we had any questions or concerns they were there to walk us through everything. Would definitely recommend them to anyone that is looking for an attorney that will honestly fight for you and has your best interest in mind.
Answers to Your
NY Truck Accident FAQs
Most people have never needed a lawyer when they find themselves injured and in need of legal advice. We hear the following questions from many of our clients. We hope the answers help clarify your options and considerations.
New York has short deadlines for truck accident claims. You must file an insurance claim within 90 days of your collision. The statute of limitations for lawsuits is three years from the injury date. Once these deadlines pass, you may lose your ability to recover compensation. It is best to move quickly and take legal action.
You can recover damages for various losses and costs associated with treating your injuries from a truck accident. Damages vary per case but may include:
- Property damage costs
- Medical expense
- Coast of adaptive devices
- Pain and suffering
- Past and future lost wages
- Ongoing physical and occupational therapy
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Compensation for assistive services like a personal aide
The costs of hiring a truck accident lawyer in NY will come as a percentage of your final settlement. You do not pay out-of-pocket expenses for retaining legal services. The percentage rate will depend on where in the process your case settles. The further it goes, the higher the percentage rate can be. However, this is all outlined within your agreement when you sign with a law firm.
Choosing the right lawyer is essential to your injury claim. You must choose wisely. First, you must consider your legal needs and expectations. You will want to sit down and determine your legal needs and what you can expect from the law firm. You can seek recommendations from friends, family, and coworkers. Once you have a few options, review the firm’s track record and services to ensure they align with your needs. Schedule a consultation to determine if the law firm is right for you.
Truck accident cases often have several parties who can be liable for injuries and losses. In most cases, you can sue the truck driver. In another instance, their employer is responsible. Other third parties, like truck maintenance and product manufacturers, may also be held liable. Holding any of these parties responsible is challenging, but you must seek justice.
The basis of your claim will come down to evidence. The best way to prove the truck driver or their employer was at fault is by presenting a solid case based on evidence. Some of the evidence that can prove vital to your claim includes:
- Black box data
- Crash report
- Cell phone or dashcam footage
- Traffic camera footage
- Witness statements
- Accident reconstruction reports
You will unlikely have to go to court for a truck accident case. Most New York truck accident cases settle out of court. Your attorney will investigate the collision and gather evidence. They will then build and present the case to the insurance company, beginning the negotiation process. Typically, negotiations are fruitful, and the case is resolved without additional actions.
The state understands that accidents are complicated. Sometimes, the parties involved contribute to the collision in different ways. Your contribution to the accident will not hinder you from getting compensation. Your percentage of fault will reduce your award. The caveat is that the other driver must be over 50% at fault.
Truck drivers and their employers must follow stringent federal and state regulations to operate a commercial truck. Some federal regulations truckers must follow include:
- Have a medical examiner’s certificate
- Have a valid non-commercial driver’s license
- Be 18 years old to drive
- Be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous waste
- Minimum of one to two years of driving experience
- Have no active license suspension
- Follow all hours of service regulations
Additionally, truck drivers must respect traffic laws in New York and when crossing state lines. They have a more considerable responsibility when carrying heavy loads. They must adhere to all regulations to keep everyone safe.
If the trucker blames you for your collisions, you have several options. You might share responsibility for the truck accident if you were negligent. However, you can still recover compensation for your losses. Your fault will reduce your financial award. It is common for insurers to use victim-blaming tactics to lower their responsibility. Sometimes, these allegations are baseless, and you can show evidence of the contrary with the help of a NY truck accident lawyer.