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Brooklyn NY Truck Accident Attorneys
Brooklyn NY Truck Accident Information
Truck accidents can cause significant injury and damage, especially to the occupants of a smaller passenger vehicle. A tractor-trailer, dump truck, semi-truck or any other type of big-rig has the potential to cause serious injuries or even fatalities just by their sheer size and weight. We are talking about 80,000 pounds or more, which is how much a fully loaded tractor-trailer weighs, compared to a small 3,000-pound car. An impaired, distracted or fatigued driver behind the wheel of one of these large commercial trucks can definitely cause a lot of damage. If you have been injured by a negligent truck driver, you can file a claim against the truck driver's employer - a trucking, distribution or manufacturing company - to seek compensation for your injuries, damages and losses.
New York Large Truck Accident Statistics
According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles' 2008 truck accident report, there were:
- 105 fatal truck accidents: In those accidents, 114 people were killed. The family of someone killed by a negligent driver may file a wrongful death claim.
- 6,084 personal injuries: A truck accident can result in serious injuries including head trauma, spinal injuries, broken bones, paralysis and loss of limbs. There is a strong potential for catastrophic injuries in truck accidents.
- 140 DUI collisions: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol puts everyone on the road at serious risk. Truck drivers who operate under the influence should be held accountable for the damage they cause. Their employers could also be held liable in such cases, especially if they failed to conduct proper background checks or test them for alcohol or drug use.
- 46 truck accidents due to fatigued driving - 124 New York large truck accidents have been attributed to drivers falling asleep at the wheel. Federal regulations limit the number of hours a truck driver can work without rest. Despite these regulations, unrealistic delivery schedules often force truck drivers to get on the road even when they should be resting.
- 205 accidents caused by inexperienced drivers - Safely operating a large vehicle is not easy. Truck drivers with little experience may not know how to react in an emergency situation and they are more prone to making a mistake that can lead to a major collision.
- 1,073 large truck accidents due to speeding -Trucks that excessively speed often cause devastating injuries and fatalities.
You may be eligible for compensation if you have been injured in a Brooklyn truck accident. If you or a loved one has been injured, please call a reputed Brooklyn truck accident lawyer right away to discuss your potential claim.
What to do after a Brooklyn truck accident
It is important to first contact the authorities. It would be a good idea to obtain a copy of the police report. Make sure you acquire all of the pertinent information from the truck driver and witnesses to the collision. Make sure you do not admit fault while discussing the accident. It is also important to seek prompt medical attention. Even if you are not sure how seriously you are injured, it is crucial that you see a medical professional who will help determine your condition.
If you have sustained serious injuries in a Brooklyn truck accident, the law offices of Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro & Halperin, LLP will be able to help examine all facets of your case and advise you about your legal rights and options. We have a long history of protecting the rights of New York truck accident victims. Truckers and shipping companies have powerful insurance companies that will get working on the accident case right away. So, it is critical that you have a knowledgeable lawyer on your side who is fighting for your rights and looking out for your best interests.
