How Dangerous is Truck Driving?

Due to the size of trucks, they can cause a significant amount of damage in an accident. If a delivery truck, semi-truck, big rig, or another truck strikes you, you will likely experience damage to your vehicle or yourself. Unfortunately, trucking accidents are relatively common across Long Island. There are a lot of large trucks that travel on the Long Island Expressway, mainly because a lot of Long Island roads cannot accommodate such large vehicles. The large number of trucks causes traffic on the expressway, which leads to more accidents with these large vehicles. Understanding your rights and what you should do after an accident involving a semi-truck or other large truck is essential. Knowing how to proceed will allow you to have a seamless process as possible regarding the law. It is crucial to hire an attorney after an accident involving a truck because they will be able to help you navigate the legal and insurance processes. Not every attorney knows how to proceed with trucking accidents. However, Winkler Kurtz has years of experience successfully assisting clients in winning their trucking accident cases. Our Long Island Truck Crash Lawyer is prepared to help you win your case and get you the compensation you deserve. 

Liability In A Trucking Accident

Trucking accidents can be considered more complicated than regular car accidents due to the number of potential people who can be considered liable. The truck driver is typically responsible as they operate the vehicle. However, the truck/trailer owner or company can also be held accountable, depending on the situation. Some trucking companies hire independent contractors when it comes to completing trucking routes. Being an independent contractor doesn’t mean that the trucker involved in the accident is the only responsible party, and a judge may deem the trucking company liable. The person who loaded the cargo in the truck or the truck manufacturer may also see liability in an accident involving a truck. Finally, the government or whoever is in charge of maintaining roads in the accident area may be responsible if the road conditions contribute to the accident. It is essential to contact our Long Island Truck Crash Lawyer to help you navigate the complexities of determining the cause and who is responsible for the accident. 

What Steps Do I Take In A Trucking Accident?

Like other accidents involving pedestrians or smaller vehicles, ensuring everyone around the scene is safe is the most important thing. If not, it is vital to call 911 immediately. Calling a police officer to the location of the accident can also be helpful when exchanging information. They can help with more than help with injuries and damages. After assessing the situation and determining if police or emergency services are needed, exchanging information with the truck driver is necessary.

Additionally, you should try and see if the trucker is an employee of a company as this may be helpful to know down the line. You will need to assess the damages in the accident. Take pictures and collect evidence that may be required later to prove fault or determine compensation. If witnesses are around the scene, get their names as a statement may be necessary from them at another time. Preparing to collect evidence through pictures can benefit you later when you work with our Long Island Truck Crash Lawyer. We will utilize the evidence collected to help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us

Winkler Kurtz has been helping clients win their cases since 1987. We are passionate about helping our clients win their cases without having to stress over legal processes or details. Our Long Island Truck Crash Lawyer is here to help you win your case. Contact our office today for a free consultation regarding your accident involving a semi-truck or large truck.