Truck accidents can leave extensive property damage and seriously injured victims in their wake. There are many potential causes for such accidents, but if you were hurt in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence you are probably looking for a way to hold them accountable. Our Westchester County truck accident attorneys can help you do that.
What Can Cause Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents can have all sorts of causes. In some cases, multiple factors end up contributing to an accident. Some things that can make trucks more dangerous to everyone else on the road include:
- Driver fatigue
- Poor driver training
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Distracted driving
- Bad weather
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Mechanical failure
Finding the cause of the accident and holding the appropriate parties accountable is something our attorneys will strive to do in your personal injury case.
What Are Some Common Injuries in Truck Accidents?
The size and weight of these vehicles make accidents involving them particularly deadly. Occupants of smaller vehicles are at serious risk of dying from their injuries or being left with medical issues for the rest of their lives. Common injuries in these collisions include:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Burns
These injuries can result in a pile of medical bills that can be tough to pay, even if you have a decent health insurance plan. That’s why you should pursue compensation that can help make up for these expenses, the wages you’ll miss while recovering, and any pain and suffering you experience as a result of a truck crash.
Who Can Be Liable in Truck Accidents?
We recommend getting a lawyer if you are suing over a truck accident because these cases can get complicated. The biggest issue is that there are often multiple liable parties that need to be sued.
Here’s what we mean. Maybe a driver makes a mistake that causes a crash. They did that because they were tired and they ignored rules about rest breaks. They should be held responsible.
However, they did not act alone. They were encouraged by their employer to skip their break because it’s better for the bottom line. In fact, an investigation shows that this firm has a history of ignoring safety rules. In a case like this, both the trucking company and the truck driver could be sued for damages.
How Long Do I Have to Sue After a Crash?
New York has a rather generous statute of limitations for personal injury cases. You can sue within three years of the date of the accident in most cases. However, we do not recommend waiting that long. Acting quickly can make it easier for your lawyer to secure important evidence, like footage of the accident or truck maintenance records. Plus, the sooner you act, the sooner you can secure the kind of compensation offer you deserve.
Talk to Our Personal Injury Attorneys
When you want to learn more about what our lawyers can do for you, contact Hausman & Pendzick. We can schedule a case consultation and tell you more about your legal options.