Brooklyn Truck Accident Lawyer

Fighting For Truck Accident Victims in Brooklyn, NY

Truck accidents are among the most devastating and complex cases on the road. The enormous size and weight of commercial trucks can cause severe damage and catastrophic injuries when involved in an accident. For victims, navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be very overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and legal procedures. At the Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C.., our Brooklyn truck accident attorney can help safeguard your rights and ensure that you acquire the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Call the Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C. today at (718) 340-3385 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our truck accident attorney in Brooklyn.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Common causes may include the following:

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers usually work long hours, leading to fatigue. Drowsy driving impairs reaction times and judgment, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Distractions like texting, eating, or using a GPS can divert a driver's attention from the road, leading to collisions.
• Speeding: Trucks require longer distances to stop compared to smaller vehicles. When truck drivers speed, they may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision.
• Improperly Loaded Cargo: Incorrectly loaded or overloaded cargo can cause a truck to become unstable, making it challenging for the driver to control the vehicle.
• Mechanical Failures: Poor maintenance, defective parts, or mechanical issues can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, and other malfunctions that result in accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather, like rain, snow, or fog, can make roads slippery and decrease visibility, leading to truck accidents.
• Alcohol or Drug Impairment: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, contributing to a significant number of truck accidents.

Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The impact of a truck collision can cause significant head injuries, ranging from concussions to severe brain damage, possibly resulting in long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Injury to the spinal cord could lead to partial or full paralysis, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones: The immense power of a truck accident can lead to fractures, often requiring surgery and prolonged recovery periods.
• Internal Injuries: The impact of a collision can cause damage to internal organs, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
• Lacerations and Abrasions: Broken glass, metal, and other debris from the accident can cause deep cuts and abrasions, leading to permanent scarring or disfigurement.
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden jolt of a crash can cause the neck to snap back and forth, resulting in whiplash, which can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues.
• Burns: In severe accidents where a truck catches fire, victims may suffer from painful burns, requiring extensive treatment and possibly leading to permanent disfigurement.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Truck Accident Claim?

Possible damages may include the following:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for present and prospective medical expenses that are related to the accident, which includes hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary medical equipment.
• Lost Wages: If the injuries from the incident stop the victim from working, they may be compensated for lost wages. This can also include compensation for diminished earning capability if the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
• Pain and Suffering: Truck accidents often result in considerable physical pain and emotional distress. Victims may be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering endured as a result of the accident.
• Property Damage: Compensation for the restoration or replacement of the vehicle and any other personal property that had been damaged in the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: If the accident impacts the victim’s relationship with their partner, they may be compensated for the loss of companionship or consortium.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the truck driver or trucking company’s actions were particularly reckless or negligent, the court may award punitive damages to penalize the wrongdoer and prevent similar behavior in the future.

Truck Accident Claim FAQs

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

If you're involved in a truck accident in Brooklyn, your first priority should be safety and medical attention. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical help if needed. Try to document the scene by taking photos and gathering contact information from witnesses. It's also important to avoid admitting fault or discussing the details with the other party’s insurance company until you've spoken with a lawyer. Reporting the accident to your own insurer and seeking legal advice as soon as possible can protect your rights and help you navigate the claims process effectively.

Who can be held liable for a truck accident?

Truck accident liability can be complex due to the number of parties potentially involved. The truck driver may be liable if they were negligent, such as driving under the influence or while fatigued. However, the trucking company, cargo loaders, vehicle maintenance providers, and even truck manufacturers may also share liability. An experienced attorney can investigate the accident to determine who is at fault and pursue compensation from all responsible parties.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a truck accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, if the claim involves a municipality or government entity, such as a city-owned vehicle, a Notice of Claim must be filed within 90 days, and the lawsuit must be filed within one year and 90 days. It's crucial to act quickly to preserve evidence and avoid missing these critical deadlines.

How is a truck accident claim different from a regular car accident claim?

Truck accident claims tend to be more complex than standard car accident cases due to the involvement of commercial vehicles, federal trucking regulations, and multiple potential defendants. The damages are often greater due to the size and weight of trucks, leading to more severe injuries. Additionally, trucking companies are usually backed by powerful insurers and legal teams, which makes pursuing fair compensation more challenging without experienced legal support.

Do I need a lawyer for a truck accident claim in Brooklyn?

While you're not legally required to have a lawyer, hiring an attorney experienced in truck accident cases is highly recommended. Trucking companies often have aggressive legal teams and insurers working to minimize payouts. A qualified lawyer can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and advocate for the maximum compensation you're entitled to. Legal representation is especially important in cases involving serious injury or disputed liability.

Contact Our Truck Accident Attorney in Brooklyn Today

Truck accidents can have life-altering consequences, and dealing with the aftermath requires experienced legal representation. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it's crucial to act quickly to safeguard your rights and seek the compensation you rightfully deserve. Our Brooklyn truck accident lawyer can help guide you through the entire legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate on your behalf in court.

Contact the Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C. today at (718) 340-3385  to get started with our Brooklyn truck accident lawyer.