New York City is among the busiest and most well-known cities in the world, and on any given day, there are millions of people traveling on the streets and sidewalks. Commercial trucks, delivery trucks, and heavy machinery vehicles travel through the city alongside commuters and tourists, creating an increasingly hazardous environment due to vehicle size and congestion.
The potential for severe injuries and property damage in a truck accident is higher than in collisions with passenger vehicles, and getting fair compensation for the harm you’ve sustained is crucial for your recovery.
Were you involved in a truck accident in New York City? Contact the Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices to speak with one of our experienced truck accident lawyers. We handle cases involving:
- Dump trucks
- Tow trucks
- Box trucks
- Big rigs and tractor-trailers
- Garbage trucks
- Delivery trucks
- Mixer trucks
- Fuel tankers
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
What Are the Costs Associated with Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer?
One of the biggest hurdles to obtaining skilled legal representation in a truck accident case is the belief that experienced attorneys are too expensive. Cost is a valid concern when facing mounting medical bills and an inability to work. However, personal injury attorneys, like the truck accident lawyers at Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices, typically work on a contingency fee basis.
A contingency fee means you do not pay legal fees upfront. Your attorney is paid from the compensation you receive if your case is successful. If your lawyer does not win or settle your case, you do not owe attorney’s fees. The percentage of an attorney’s contingency fee can vary, so it’s important to discuss this during your consultation to know what to expect if your claim is successful.
Tips for Selecting the Right Truck Accident Attorney
Finding an attorney you feel comfortable and confident with can be a challenge. For complex cases involving large trucks, consider the following tips:
- Experience handling large commercial truck accidents
- In-depth knowledge of state laws and federal regulations
- Familiarity with insurance company tactics to limit compensation
- Strong strategic development skills
The Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices has successfully represented countless clients in New York City truck accident cases, leading to a highly developed legal strategy. When looking for an attorney to protect your rights and fight for fair compensation after a commercial truck accident, contact us for a free consultation.
How Leading Lawyers Conduct Truck Accident Investigations
Your truck accident attorney’s skills will be put to use long before negotiations, legal claims, and hearings begin. A skilled lawyer knows how to perform independent investigations of your truck accident to gather necessary evidence and assess your claim’s value. This includes gathering documents like:
- Police reports
- Truck driver logs
- Driver timecards and route schedules
- Truck maintenance and inspection records
- Driver training history
- Medical records
It may also be helpful to collect witness statements, accident scene photographs, and videos. If expert witnesses are needed, your attorney can coordinate their testimony.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Truck Accident Lawsuit?
New York uses a no-fault system in car accident cases, but that doesn’t mean accident victims cannot file a lawsuit for the damages sustained. Pursuing compensation for a truck accident in New York City can be complicated, which is why consulting with an attorney before the statute of limitations runs out is advisable.
You may be able to seek economic and non-economic damages for:
- Past and current medical costs
- Future medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages and loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
The truck accident lawyers at Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices will ensure every possible element is included in your case value to maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Rising Trend of Truck Accidents in New York City and Across the U.S.
Recent data from the Truck Safety Coalition shows that truck accident fatalities increased by 13% between 2020 and 2021. Other key facts about truck accidents in New York include:
- More than two-thirds of truck accidents involving a cyclist or pedestrian cause severe injury or death.
- In 2020, truck accidents killed 108 people in New York.
- In April 2023, there were over 587 truck accidents in New York City.
It’s important that everyone on the roads prioritizes safety. While most truck drivers understand their responsibility, accidents still happen. The attorneys at Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices are ready to build your case and advocate for fair compensation. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.