New York Truck Accident Lawyer

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 New York City Los Angeles, Rochester, Oakland, 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 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.

What Makes Truck Accidents So Dangerous?

Large commercial trucks are responsible for transporting consumer products, equipment, other vehicles, and more across our nation’s vast highways and interstates. Despite playing a vital role in our economy and daily lives, these trucks can also cause serious accidents when operators act negligently. These individuals significantly increase the risk of truck accidents, especially in condensed urban settings like New York City, where truckers, motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians are all sharing the same roadways. With trucks typically weighing more, they tend to cause more damage when they’re involved in accidents. 

New York City Truck Accident Statistics 

As of May 2024, there have been over 1,000 truck accidents in New York City, highlighting the risk they pose to New York City motorists and residents sharing the same, narrow streets. Top truck accident causes include distracted driving, backing unsafely, and following too closely. 

Truck drivers in New York City are responsible for operating with caution, especially along condensed city streets. When they fail to do so, accidents can happen. At The Barnes Firm, we know negligent truck drivers deserve to be held accountable for their actions. If you or someone you know has been wrongfully injured in a truck accident, call the trusted New York City truck attorneys at The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation. 

Most Dangerous New York City Truck Accident Locations

New York City is known for traffic-congested roadways. However, there are certain areas where truck accidents seem to occur more frequently for various reasons. Our team has identified the following dangerous New York City roadways that experience an increased amount of truck accidents each year: 

• Cross Bronx Expwy (I-95) 
• Gowanus Expwy (I-278) 
• Bruckner Expwy (I-278) 
• Queens-Midtown Tunnel Approach 
• Belt Pkwy 
• George Washington Bridge 
• Van Wyck Expwy (I-678) 
• Brooklyn-Queens Expwy (I-278) 
• FDR Drive 

Types of Truck Accidents We Handle

The common association with truck accidents involves semi-trucks. Although these trucks do cause accidents, there are many other types of trucks traveling in New York City everyday that can be involved as well.  Our team of New York City truck accident lawyers have successfully handled accident involving these trucks: 

Tractor Trailers. Large trucks that have both the engine and driver cabin in the front. These are commonly seen traveling along highways and interstates, and it’s important to be cautious around them as their size makes them capable of causing severe accidents. 

Big Rigs. 18-wheelers, or big rigs, are the largest trucks you’ll encounter on roadways. These already-hefty vehicles carry heavy loads and require skilled operation. Accidents involving big rigs often have the most severe outcomes, as they have the potential to smash into and crush other motor vehicles they come in contact with.  

Delivery Trucks. USPS, UPS, Amazon, and FedEx trucks often make frequent stops along roadways while their operators work on tight delivery schedules, making accidents more common for them. 

Tanker Trucks. Trucks with large tanks carrying potentially hazardous materials can cause serious accidents. When these trucks are involved in collisions, they may leak or explode, causing burn injuries or toxic fume inhalation for those involved. 

Utility Trucks. Sanitation trucks, construction trucks and more make up this category. With that comes the risk of accidents involving other vehicles sharing these same roadways.  

Garbage Trucks. Garbage trucks are essential to our modern lives, as they’re tasked with disposing of our waste and maintaining sanitary environments. However, their large size and frequent stops, coupled with New York City’s narrow streets, can be a recipe for disaster. Accidents involving garbage trucks can be catastrophic, causing severe injuries or even fatalities. 

Truck Accident Investigations in NYC 

It’s important to understand that truck accident investigations may vary slightly from a typical motor vehicle accident. In addition to the standard police report documenting the crash, many truck companies will actually launch their own investigations into the accident and try to shift the blame on you. That’s why it’s crucial for you to speak with an experienced truck accident attorney at The Barnes Firm who has your best interest in mind and knows how to combat these trucking companies and obtain the compensation you deserve. Call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation. It could be the best call you make.  

Truck Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims

Due to their sheer size, accidents involving large commercial trucks are more prone to causing fatalities than other motor vehicle accidents. When truck accidents cause fatalities, New York state laws allow spouses, children, siblings, and parents to file a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death claims are valid when someone is killed during the accident or succumbs to their sustained injuries later on. These claims enable families of lost loved ones to obtain compensation for a loss of consortium, or companionship.  

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:

• Head trauma
• Brain injuries
• Whiplash
• Back and neck injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal organ damage
• Burns
• Wrongful death
• Dislocations, and more

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.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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).
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Property Damage: This covers the cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal belongings that were damaged in the crash.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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

1. Funeral and Burial Expenses: These are direct costs associated with laying your loved one to rest.
2. 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.
3. Medical Expenses: Any medical bills associated with the deceased’s final treatment or attempts to save their life can be claimed.
4. Loss of Companionship: This encompasses the emotional pain and suffering endured due to the loss of love, care, protection, and companionship.
5. 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.
6. Loss of Parental Guidance: If the deceased had children, compensation might cover the loss of moral upbringing, guidance, care, and physical and emotional support.
7. 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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.

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.

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:

1. Scene Analysis: We revisit the accident location to gather evidence, understand the environmental factors, and take note of any surveillance cameras.
2. Witness Interviews: Our team seeks out and interviews all potential witnesses to build a comprehensive account of the incident.
3. Expert Consultations: We often collaborate with accident reconstructionist, medical professionals, and other experts to strengthen our client’s cases.
4. Document Collection: We meticulously gather all pertinent documents, including police reports, medical records, driver logs, maintenance records, and more.
5. 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

1. Prioritize Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check on others involved.
2. Call 911: Always report significant accidents, ensuring there’s a legal record and that medical assistance arrives if needed.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos, collect information from all parties, and get witness statements.
4. Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not manifest immediately. A medical check-up ensures your well-being and provides documentation of any injuries.
5. Avoid Speculating or Admitting Fault: Only speak about facts and avoid making speculative statements or admitting guilt.
6. Contact Our Attorneys: Seek legal guidance before making statements to insurance adjusters or signing any settlements.

What if My Case is Complicated?

In New York City, a variety of factors contribute to how complicated truck accident cases can be. The primary reasons for this include: 

• Urban Setting. New York City’s urban setting makes it a difficult place for large commercial trucks to operate. With that said, it not only makes accidents more likely, but also complicates determining the exact causes and fault, as there are many external factors to consider at the time of the accident.  
• Legal Issues. Truck companies have regulations at local, state, and federal levels. When accidents occur, the nuances of these different branches of law can complicate liability, which needs to be clearly defined when trying to move forward with a claim or lawsuit. 
• Multiple Parties Can Be Involved. Liability grows even more complicated when multiple parties are involved in the accident. Whether it be other vehicles involved or a manufacturing defect on the truck itself, the more parties involved often means a more difficult case. 
• Insurance Coverage Issues. Although most large commercial truck companies have extensive coverage policies, disputes over this coverage and exclusions arise. When they do, there may be delays or additional complications added into the recovery process. 
• Accident Severity. How fast the truck was moving, what the operator was doing, the size and weight of the truck, and an abundance of other factors contribute to the severity of truck crashes. Depending on the severity and aftermath of the accident, truck accident claims can vary in terms of how long they take to settle or be resolved in court. 

Despite these scenarios being more complex to navigate, our dedicated team of New York City truck accident lawyers at The Barnes Firm have the skills and experience needed to pursue maximum compensation in these incidents. If you or a loved one has been wrongfully injured in a truck accident, call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000.  

What’s My Case Worth?

Every truck accident case is unique. With that in mind, it is difficult to determine how much your individual case is worth right off the bat. Many factors are considered, including the extent of your injuries, damages, degree of fault, and more. Consulting with an experienced New York City truck accident lawyer at The Barnes Firm can help paint a better picture of the compensation you may be entitled to. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.  

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.

Our New York 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 in New York City at 420 Lexington Ave #2140, New York, NY 10170. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 40.75287283375507, -73.9759697508607

Client 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.