Truck accidents are a significant concern on Long Island, especially on busy highways like the Long Island Expressway. These collisions often result in severe injuries, life-altering consequences, and complex legal challenges for those involved. Unlike typical car accidents, truck crashes can cause catastrophic damage due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Accidents involving a semi truck are particularly severe and legally complex, often requiring a deep understanding of liability, insurance claims, and the impact of negligence involving these large vehicles. If you or a loved one has been involved in a long island truck accident, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the steps you need to take to protect your future.
Navigating a truck accident claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with medical expenses, insurance companies, and the legal process. That’s why working with an experienced Long Island truck accident lawyer is essential. Our firm has extensive experience handling truck collision cases and advocating for victims of these serious incidents. A truck accident attorney can help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries, lost income, and other damages. With the right legal counsel, you can focus on your recovery while your accident lawyer handles the complexities of your case, helping you receive the maximum compensation available under the law.
Why Choose The Barnes Firm for Your Truck Accident Case?
- Our Long Island legal team is backed by more than 40 attorneys nationwide, bringing together over 500 years of combined experience to support truck accident victims across Nassau and Suffolk counties
- Our mission on Long Island is to achieve the best possible result for every truck accident client through zealous advocacy, outstanding legal service, and a commitment to securing the maximum compensation available under New York law.
- As a firm, we have handled more than 150,000 accident and injury cases, recovering over $2.5 billion 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 consistently leave outstanding reviews, praising our dedication, communication, and commitment to exceptional representation throughout their cases.
- While we serve clients nationwide, our Long Island office provides local, personalized support backed by the resources and strength of a national firm.
Contact a Long Island Truck Accident Lawyer
How Much Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth?
A truck accident victim is entitled to compensation if they were wrongfully injured by a negligent action. The compensation will consist of past and future medical expenses, lost income, compensation for emotional anguish, and more. A fair settlement is negotiated with insurance companies to cover all damages, including substantial and ongoing medical bills that often result from truck accident injuries.
Truck accident settlement examples from our successful cases, illustrating the range and depth of compensation achieved. These examples highlight our commitment to advocating for our client’s rights and securing the financial support they deserve.
- $3,500,000.00 – The client sustained shoulder, elbow, hand, and head injuries after being struck by a truck.
- $1,600,000.00 – The client was struck by a truck, sustaining head, neck, shoulder, and foot injuries.
- $1,500,000.00 – The client was sideswiped by a tractor-trailer – sustaining serious back injuries.
- $1,500,000.00 – The client was rear-ended by a UPS truck while stopped at a red light – sustaining neck, back, knee, and shoulder injuries.
- $1,430,000.00 – The client was rear-ended by a commercial vehicle resulting in severe back and shoulder injuries.
- $1,250,000.00 – The truck made a U-turn into our client’s vehicle causing back, neck, and arm injuries.
Each truck accident claim is unique, with the outcome varying based on the applicable facts and circumstances surrounding the accident.
Do I Need a Long Island Truck Accident Attorney?
If you have been injured in a Long Island truck accident, your recovery is the most important thing to focus on. Unfortunately, you will most likely be dealing with a difficult insurance company after your accident. Insurance representatives often work to minimize payouts and may communicate on behalf of the at fault party, using tactics like lowball offers or delaying claims. Due to the large size of a truck, injuries sustained tend to be more severe, meaning you may be able to recover more compensation. At The Barnes Firm, we know insurance companies will try to lowball accident victims and we will work diligently on your behalf so you can focus on your health. When you choose The Barnes Firm, our team of truck accident lawyers will:
- Provide a FREE case evaluation
- Investigate the circumstances that led up to and caused your accident
- Protect you against counterclaims from other parties
- Negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf
- Prepare your case for trial, if necessary
Our Long Island truck accident attorneys will work hard to ensure negligent parties are held responsible for the accident and help you get the best result possible. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 to get started filing your truck accident claim.
Joseph Capetola – Personal Injury Lawyer in Long Island, NY
“Joseph J. Capetola is one of the leading trial attorneys at The Barnes Firm. He is recognized as one of the Metropolitan area’s distinguished attorneys for serious injury matters, and has achieved many multi-million dollar verdicts working alongside Steve & Rich Barnes at the law offices of Cellino & Barnes, and now, The Barnes Firm.”
How do Long Island Truck Accidents Happen?
At The Barnes Firm, our truck accident attorneys know that operating large trucks, such as 18-wheelers, takes experience, skill, and extra caution due to their size and the longer stopping distance required. Complex maneuvers, require drivers to be especially careful to avoid accidents. Accidents happen when one or more parties act negligently. Commonly, truck accidents happen for the following reasons:
- Truck Driver Fatigue. Truck drivers often spend long hours on the road. When drivers fail to get adequate rest, fatigue can lead to slowed reaction times, drowsiness, or even falling asleep at the wheel.
- Unsecured or Improperly Loaded Cargo. Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transport, causing the truck to become unstable or spilling debris onto the roadway. This creates dangerous conditions that frequently lead to collisions.
- Long Braking Times. Because of their size and weight, large commercial trucks require significantly more time and distance to come to a complete stop. If a driver fails to brake early enough, the result can be a catastrophic rear-end or multi-vehicle accident.
- Improper Turning or Wide Turns. Making safe right or left turns requires skill, space, and careful judgment. When truck drivers misjudge a turn or fail to check blind spots, they can collide with nearby vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI). Operating a commercial truck under the influence of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous. Impaired driving greatly increases the risk of a severe or fatal truck accident.
- Speeding or Reckless Driving. Truck drivers may speed to stay on schedule or make up lost time. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react and increases stopping distance, making accidents more likely and more severe.
- Poor or Neglected Truck Maintenance. Commercial trucks must undergo regular inspections and maintenance. When trucking companies or drivers neglect brake systems, tires, lights, or other essential components, mechanical failures can lead to serious accidents.
- Distracted Driving. Long hours on the road can tempt truck drivers to use radios, GPS devices, or cell phones. Any distraction can cause a driver to drift, miss hazards, or collide with another vehicle.
Regardless of the cause of the truck accident, including those caused by a negligent truck driver, the injuries can be devastating for victims and their loved ones. If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident on the Long Island, call the trusted and experienced truck attorneys at The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 or contact us online.
What to do if You’ve Been in a Long Island Truck Accident
If you are the injured party in a truck accident, it is important to protect your rights and take the following steps recommended by our Long Island truck accident lawyers:
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical attention if needed.
- Take pictures and videos of any injuries you received and of the truck accident scene
- Exchange information with the other driver(s)
- Talk to any witnesses at the scene
- Request a copy of the police accident report
- Seek medical professional as soon as possible
- Call a truck accident attorney from The Barnes Firm for a FREE case evaluation.
Types of Truck Accidents our Long Island Attorneys Handle
Our team of Long Island truck accident lawyers have successfully handled cases involving the following types of trucks:
- Big rigs
- Semi-trucks
- 18 wheelers
- Tractor trailers
- Fed Ex, UPS, USPS, & Amazon trucks
- Cement trucks
- Large commercial vehicles and trucks
- And more…
In addition, The Barnes Firm has advocated successfully on behalf of victims involved in the following types of truck crashes:
- Rollover accidents
- T-bone accidents
- Blind spot collisions
- Head on collisions
- Rear end collisions
- Speeding accidents
- DUIs
- And more…
Our experienced Long Island truck accident attorneys are ready to begin working hard for you the moment you call us and will continue to advocate for you through to the final settlement. Reach out today to find out if you have a case at (800) 800-0000.
Types of Injuries Caused from Long Island Truck Accidents
Some trucks are so large that they can weigh up to 80,000 tons when fully loaded. As a result of their size and weight, trucks can cause catastrophic injuries and serious injuries to those involved in an accident, often requiring long-term care for victims and their families.
- Broken bones or fractures
- Whiplash
- TBIs (Traumatic Brain Injuries)
- Other head or skull injuries
- Internal organ damages
- Burns
- Neck or spine injuries
- Back injuries
- And more…
Truck accident injuries can have a profound and lasting impact on victims. Truck accident claims often involve complex legal issues, including federal trucking regulations and multiple insurance providers.
Who is Liable After a Long Island Truck Accident?
When you choose The Barnes Firm, our Long Island truck accident lawyers will launch a full investigation into your truck accident to determine the liable party and identify all potentially liable parties. This is essential to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. Liability in a truck accident can include:
- Truck drivers
- Truck maintenance company
- Manufacturers
- Truck companies
- The company who loaded the truck
- Municipalities
- Third-party drivers
- And more…
Call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 so that we can begin your Long Island truck accident claim as soon as possible. Gathering evidence such as physical evidence, witness statements, and accident reports is crucial to building a strong case. Collecting and analyzing the truck’s black box data (also known as EDR or ELD data) is also an important part of establishing the facts and identifying fault in truck accident cases.
Comparative Negligence in Long Island Truck Accident Cases
In many Long Island truck accident cases, determining liability isn’t always straightforward. New York applies a comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% responsible for the truck accident, your total compensation will be reduced by that amount.
This system makes it especially important to have a knowledgeable long island truck accident lawyer on your side. Your truck accident attorney will work diligently to gather evidence, consult accident reconstruction professionals, and build a strong case to minimize any fault attributed to you. By doing so, your accident lawyer can help ensure that you recover the compensation you deserve, even if the other party or insurance companies attempt to shift blame. Understanding how comparative negligence works is vital in determining liability and achieving a fair outcome in your truck accident claim.
Trucking Accidents and Regulations
The trucking industry is governed by a complex web of federal and state regulations designed to keep our roads safe. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict standards for commercial trucks, including rules for truck maintenance, driver qualifications, and hours of service. Despite these regulations, trucking accidents still occur on Long Island, often due to violations by truck drivers or trucking companies.
A long island truck accident lawyer can play a crucial role in identifying whether regulatory violations contributed to your accident. For instance, if a trucking company failed to properly maintain its vehicles or allowed a driver to exceed legal driving hours, these breaches can be used to strengthen your truck accident claim. Your truck accident attorney will investigate maintenance records, driver logs, and the truck’s black box data to uncover any negligence. By holding trucking companies and drivers accountable, your accident lawyer can help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses, ensuring that those responsible are held to the highest standards of safety in the trucking industry.
The Claims Process for Long Island Truck Accident Victims
Navigating the claims process after a Long Island truck accident can feel overwhelming, especially when you are coping with severe injuries, mounting medical expenses, and uncertainty about your future. Unlike typical car accidents, truck accident cases often involve multiple parties—such as the truck driver, trucking company, and even the truck manufacturer—making the legal process more complex. That’s why it’s essential to have an experienced island truck accident lawyer by your side to guide you every step of the way.
The first priority after any truck accident is to seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Prompt medical treatment not only protects your health but also creates a crucial record for your truck accident claim. As soon as possible, document the accident scene by taking photographs, collecting witness statements, and obtaining a copy of the accident report. Preserving evidence is vital, as it can help your legal team establish how the accident occurred and who should be held responsible.
A dedicated legal team will begin by thoroughly investigating your truck accident case. This often involves working with accident reconstruction professionals to analyze the accident scene, reviewing the truck’s black box data, and examining maintenance records to uncover any negligence by the trucking company or at-fault party. Determining liability is a critical step, as truck accidents frequently result from factors like truck drivers speeding, driver fatigue, or poor vehicle maintenance.
Throughout the claims process, your truck accident attorney will handle communications with insurance representatives and other potentially liable parties. They will work tirelessly to gather evidence, build a strong case, and advocate for your right to fair compensation. Accident victims may be entitled to recover compensation for a range of damages, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and the costs of ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation. Common truck accident injuries—such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other catastrophic injuries—can have a lasting impact on your quality of life, making it even more important to pursue maximum compensation.
Truck accident claims can be time-consuming and complex, but with the support of an experienced law firm, you can focus on your recovery while your legal team manages the details. A free legal consultation with a knowledgeable accident lawyer can provide valuable insight into your options and help you understand the best path forward. If you or a loved one has been injured in a long island truck accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable law firm for guidance. With the right legal counsel, you can ensure your rights are protected and take the necessary steps to recover the compensation you deserve.
How Long do I have to File a Long Island Truck Accident Claim?
You have three years from the date of the truck accident, or three years from the date your injuries were discovered, to file a truck accident claim or a personal injury lawsuit in New York State.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover After a Truck Accident?
Compensation awarded to you after a truck accident depends on why the accident happened and the type of injuries caused by the accident. If you have been injured in a truck crash, compensation may be available for your injuries and losses. Our team of experienced truck accident lawyers from The Barnes Firm may be able to help you recover compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Disability
- Lost future earnings
- Rehabilitation
- Nursing care
- Physical therapy
- Emotional distress
These types of compensation are common in personal injury cases involving truck accidents caused by negligence.
The Barnes Firm is Here to Help After a Truck Accident
Truck accidents on Long Island can have life-changing consequences, resulting in severe injuries, significant financial burdens, and emotional distress. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s essential to seek the help of a skilled long island truck accident lawyer. An experienced truck accident attorney can guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and help you pursue fair compensation for your truck accident claim.
After a truck accident, you can trust that you’re in good hands when working with our attorneys at The Barnes Firm. We have helped thousands of truck accident victims over the years get the best result possible and are equipped with the skills needed to help successfully advocate on your behalf.
If you have questions about your Long Island truck accident or want to know how much your case may be worth, call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 – it could be the best call you make.
Our Long Island Truck Accident Lawyers at The Barnes Firm Injury Attorneys help victims from New York. Our firm is conveniently located near you. We have an office on Long Island at 600 Old Country Rd # 425, Garden City, NY 11530. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 40.742689431275515, -73.61562473548132
Our team of attorneys want to hear from you.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, construction accident, or have suffered another type of personal injury contact our team today.
Free Case Evaluation or call us: (800) 800-0000Client Reviews
What our clients are saying about us
Nichole W.
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 Long Island
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.
Written by The Barnes Firm, reviewed by Richard Barnes
