The Truck Accident Lawyer You Need for Maximum Compensation
Hundreds of motor vehicle accidents occur nationwide every day. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the number of truck accident fatalities in 2019, compared to 2009, shows a 31% increase. Despite efforts to enhance safety rules, the number of incidents involving big rigs, semi-vehicles, 18-wheelers, cargo trucks, fuel tankers, and tractor-trailers continues to climb.
Advocating for Clients Injured in Truck Accidents in New York
At The Buffalo Injury Law Firm, we hear your concerns. Our legal team has the experience and thorough understanding of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations, New York Vehicle & Traffic Laws, and the New York Department of Transportation Regulations. We stay current on legislative changes related to traffic and motor vehicle laws to represent our clients’ interests best. Let us advocate on your behalf while you recover from your catastrophic injuries.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) have Estimated the Following Statistics as a result of truck accidents:
- There were 5,005 fatal truck crashes in 2019, a 2% increase from 2018 and a 43% increase since 2010.
- The majority of fatalities in large-truck crashes are caused by occupants of other vehicles (71%), followed by truck occupants (18%) and non-occupants, primarily pedestrians and cyclists (11%).
- Three-quarters of fatal truck accidents occur at night, between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. The great majority of crashes (83% fatal, 88% non-fatal) occur during the week.
- Most fatal accident drivers are middle-aged; 6% are under 25 years, and 6% are over 66 years.
- The number of injuries sustained in truck accidents in 2019 was 119,000 nationwide.
Having represented many truck accident clients, our 18-wheeler accident lawyers find that most accidents are preventable if truck corporations adhere to safety laws.
Common Causes of a Truck Accident
- Inadequate Training – Some truck drivers involved in accidents are untrained to drive large trucks. These incompetent drivers also lack the licenses to drive, causing life-threatening injuries.
- Driver Fatigue – Most truck companies force drivers to work more hours than the law requires. It can lead to careless driving or drivers falling asleep behind the wheel.
- Overloading – Some trucking companies refuse to follow load size requirements, causing the truck to jackknife on busy highways, increasing braking time, and dislocating cargo while traveling.
- Excessive Speed – Truck drivers are required by state law to drive at a slower speed than passenger car drivers. When this rule is broken, the results can be disastrous.
- Drug and Alcohol Misuse – Although state and federal regulations demand regular drug testing of drivers, some truck drivers abuse drugs and alcohol while driving.
Settlements and Awards for an 18-Wheeler Accident
The most common question for accident lawyers is, “How much is my injury worth?” The answer varies depending on the nature of the injuries and the liability of each lawsuit. Rest assured that the liable parties are required by federal and state legislation to provide total compensation to the victims of truck accidents. Most truck accident lawsuits result in significant settlements that include economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.
Keep in mind that minor injuries, such as scrapes and bruises, will result in smaller payouts, while severe injuries, such as limb loss, can result in much larger settlements. It also depends on the nature of the injuries, both tangible and intangible.
Compensation will cover:
- Health-care costs
- Property damage
- Wage or profit loss
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Disability costs
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Reduced quality of life
- Funeral expenses in wrongful death
What to Do After a Truck Accident
It is vital to see a doctor immediately after an accident. Exchange contact information with the truck driver and immediately call the police. If the driver provides false information to accident victims, they may face criminal charges and revocation of their driver’s licenses. Once you have gotten a hold of yourself after the jarring experience of an accident, the best thing you can do for yourself is to contact a reliable truck accident attorney.
The statute of limitations for personal injury and property damage in New York is three years, giving you enough time to file a claim against the responsible party for damages.
The Buffalo Injury Law Firm Builds Strong Cases for Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Seeking the professional assistance of an experienced truck accident lawyer is your best shot at receiving proper compensation for your pain and suffering. Our firm has a reputation for tenaciously representing clients, and we are known for having acquired favorable personal injury settlements and verdicts throughout New York. If you are injured in a truck accident, do not settle for less; contact the experienced legal team at The Buffalo Injury Law Firm right away.
Our office is based in Western New York, serving clients in Buffalo, Rochester, Erie, and Monroe Counties. Call The Buffalo Injury Law Firm to schedule a free consultation at (716) 646-8412.