Truck Accident Lawyers in NYC

A red semi truck on the highway

Given the massive weight and size of semi-trucks and tractor-trailers, collisions with these heavy commercial vehicles often result in catastrophic damage and life-threatening injuries. The New York truck accident lawyers at Douglas & London have decades of experience handling 18-wheeler and truck accident claims in the NYC metro area and can put that experience to work for you. Our team has recovered millions of dollars in compensation for clients injured in a variety of automobile accidents and we will fight for maximum recovery in your case from the at-fault parties.

It is critical to work quickly after a truck accident to file your claim. Only an experienced truck accident lawyer in NYC can put you in the best position to secure damages for the full cost of your injuries and losses, including money to cover medical bills, lost wages from time missed at work, pain and suffering, and more. Protect your legal rights to compensation by reaching out to a skilled personal injury lawyer who can give your case the resources and attention it deserves. Call Douglas & London or reach out through our online form to schedule a free consultation.

Identifying Liable Parties in Truck Accidents

Truck drivers have to keep up with tight, often unrealistic schedules. This can prompt drivers to speed or skip federally-mandated rest stops in order to meet deadlines. Other drivers are simply reckless — driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, or ignoring road and traffic conditions. 

Sometimes, however, the truck driver is not entirely to blame. A truck driver who was poorly trained may lack the knowledge and experience needed to drive safely. Improperly maintained vehicles, mechanical failures due to product defects, and negligence on the part of other motorists can all contribute to a devastating accident.

When investigating the cause of your collision, our lawyers review log books, police accident reports, and hiring and training procedures to determine responsible parties.

Our New York Truck Accident Lawyers Work With a Team of Experts

Litigation against trucking companies and their insurers requires an in-depth knowledge of state and federal trucking regulations regarding hours of service limitations, cargo restrictions, training procedures, and routine safety inspections.

We regularly work with seasoned crash reconstruction consultants, medical professionals, and forensic engineers who can provide expert witness testimony to build the strongest case possible.

Causes of New York Truck Accidents

In January of 2021, some 559 accidents involving large commercial trucks were reported in the city of New York. While there are numerous causes of these collisions, some of the most prevalent include:

  • Driver fatigue
  • Aggressive driving
  • Making illegal or unsafe turns
  • Tailgating
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Driver inattention
  • Traveling too fast for conditions
  • Brake or mechanical problems
  • Cargo shifts
  • Tire blowouts
  • Hazardous weather or road conditions

Serious Injuries Common to Truck Crashes

A passenger vehicle is no match to an 80,000-pound big rig – especially when collisions happen at high speeds. Common truck accident injuries include:

Whether your injuries were sustained in an 18-wheeler or Amazon truck accident, you can count on Douglas & London for attentive, dedicated representation.

Compensation Available to Semi Truck Accident Victims

Our lawyers conduct swift and thorough investigations to gather all pertinent evidence to determine liable parties. Evidence may include in-cab surveillance footage, the truck’s Event Data Recorder system, witness testimony, driver logs, and maintenance records.

We will actively pursue damages to compensate injury victims for all past, current, and future losses related to the accident, such as:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages due to time off work, or a loss of future income if your injury prevents you from returning to work
  • Pain and suffering
  • Diminished earning capacity
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Reduced quality of life

In the event a loved one is killed or succumbs to fatal injuries after a truck accident, Douglas & London can help surviving family members pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against at-fault parties.

Time Limits for Preserving Truck Driving Logs as Evidence

Truck drivers are required to maintain driving logs and are limited to a certain number of consecutive driving hours without rest. After a collision involving a semi, these logs are considered essential evidence, and federal regulations require that they are preserved for a period of six months. If a court order is not obtained for those records within six months following the accident, they can be destroyed. These limitations make it vital to contact an attorney right away after a truck accident. We can take the right measures within the appropriate timeframe to build a strong case against the responsible parties.

Speak With a Truck Accident Lawyer in NYC

If you or a family member was involved in a big rig accident, you don’t have to deal with the repercussions alone. Discuss your claim for free with Douglas & London today. We handle truck accident cases on a contingency-fee basis, which means we don’t get paid unless a recovery is made on your behalf. Call or use our online contact form to schedule your no-cost consultation.