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New York Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer

Were you or a loved one injured in a commercial truck accident in New York? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from experienced truck accident attorneys who fight for maximum compensation.

3 years
Statute of Limitations
5,200+
Annual Truck Accidents
$0
Upfront Cost
24/7
Free Consultations

New York Truck Accident Laws You Need to Know

Understanding New York's specific truck accident laws is crucial for protecting your rights and maximizing your compensation. Here's what makes New York unique:

Statute of Limitations: 3 years

In New York, you have 3 years from the date of your truck accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could permanently bar you from recovering compensation, so don't delay in seeking legal help.

Fault System: Pure comparative fault

New York uses pure comparative fault. This means you can still recover damages even if you're partially at fault—your award is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're 30% at fault for a $1 million case, you'd receive $700,000.

Minimum Insurance Requirements

New York requires minimum auto insurance coverage of $25,000/$50,000/$10,000 + PIP. However, commercial trucks operating in interstate commerce must carry at least $750,000 in liability coverage (or more for hazardous materials). This higher coverage exists because of the catastrophic injuries truck accidents cause.

Commercial Trucking in New York

New York sees significant commercial truck traffic due to its strategic location and economic activity. Understanding the trucking landscape helps explain why accidents occur and who may be liable.

Major Trucking Routes

The following major interstates carry heavy truck traffic through New York:

  • I-87 - A major commercial corridor
  • I-95 - A major commercial corridor
  • I-90 - A major commercial corridor
  • I-81 - A major commercial corridor

Trucking Hubs

New York's major trucking and distribution centers include NYC/NJ Port, Buffalo, Albany. These areas see concentrated truck traffic and, unfortunately, higher accident rates.

What Makes New York Unique

  • No-fault insurance state
  • NYC commercial restrictions

Types of Truck Accidents We Handle in New York

18-Wheeler Crashes
Semi-truck and tractor-trailer collisions
Jackknife Accidents
When trailers swing out of control
Rollover Accidents
Truck overturns due to speed or load shift
Rear-End Collisions
Truck fails to stop in time
Underride Accidents
Vehicle slides under truck trailer
Wide Turn Accidents
Truck swings into adjacent lanes
Tire Blowouts
Defective or poorly maintained tires
Cargo Spills
Improperly secured or hazardous loads

Why You Need a New York Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident cases are significantly more complex than typical car accident claims. Here's why working with an experienced New York truck accident attorney matters:

Multiple Liable Parties

The truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, and manufacturers may all share liability.

Federal Regulations

FMCSA regulations govern hours of service, maintenance, and cargo. Violations can prove negligence.

Black Box Data

Electronic logging devices (ELDs) and event data recorders contain critical evidence that can be erased.

Aggressive Defense

Trucking companies deploy rapid response teams to limit their liability. You need someone fighting for you.

Truck Accident Lawyers Serving All of New York

Our network of experienced truck accident attorneys serves victims throughout New York, including:

New York City
NY
Buffalo
NY
Rochester
NY
Syracuse
NY

Don't see your city? We serve all of New York. Request a free consultation.

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Why Choose Us

  • No upfront fees or costs
  • Millions recovered for clients
  • Available 24/7
  • New York-licensed attorneys

Frequently Asked Questions About New York Truck Accidents

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

In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 3 years from the date of the accident. However, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible because crucial evidence like trucking logs, black box data, and witness memories can be lost over time.

What compensation can I recover in a New York truck accident case?

Depending on your case, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses (past and future), lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, property damage, and in some cases, punitive damages. Truck accident settlements often exceed $1 million due to the severity of injuries.

Who can be held liable in a New York truck accident?

Multiple parties may be liable including: the truck driver (for negligence or fatigue), the trucking company (for negligent hiring or maintenance), cargo loading companies (for improper securement), truck/parts manufacturers (for defects), and maintenance providers (for faulty repairs).

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

New York follows pure comparative fault rules, so you can still recover damages even if partially at fault. Your award is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you're 20% at fault for $500,000 in damages, you'd receive $400,000.

How much does it cost to hire a New York truck accident lawyer?

Our truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront and owe nothing unless we win your case. The initial consultation is always free, and we advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

Injured in a New York Truck Accident?

Don't face the trucking companies alone. Get experienced legal help today—it's free to find out what your case is worth.