NY Truck Accident Liability: Against Whom Can You File a Trucking Accident Claim?

Truck accidents can have devastating consequences. When a massive commercial vehicle collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, you may be wondering who is legally responsible for your damages. Determining liability in a trucking accident case can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility.

At The Ahearne Law Firm, PLLC, our determined Hudson Valley truck accident lawyers are dedicated to helping victims like you recover the compensation they deserve. We understand the challenges you face and will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf.

Who Can Be Responsible for a Truck Accident?

To start with, let’s explore the parties that may be held liable for a truck accident in New York.

The Truck Driver

Are truck drivers responsible for damages? They can be if they were negligent. Many factors can contribute to truck driver negligence, including:

• Driver fatigue: Truck drivers are pressured to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to driver fatigue.
• Distracted driving: Truck drivers can be distracted by many things, such as cell phones, GPS devices, eating, or drinking.
• Speeding: Speeding is a dangerous behavior for any driver, but it is especially dangerous for truck drivers, as large trucks take longer to stop than cars.
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol: Driving under the influence is never safe, but it is especially dangerous for truck drivers.

The negligent truck driver is often the primary party at fault in a truck accident.

The Trucking Company

The trucking company can also be held liable for a truck accident. This can happen in three ways:

Vicarious Liability

Under the doctrine of vicarious liability, employers are liable for the negligence of their employees. This means that if a truck driver causes an accident while on the job, the trucking company can be held liable for the damages.

Negligent Hiring, Training, or Supervision of Drivers

Trucking companies have a duty to hire qualified drivers, train them properly, and supervise them closely. If a trucking company fails to do any of these things, and it leads to an accident, the company can be held liable.

Failing to Maintain Trucks Properly

Trucking companies are also responsible for maintaining their trucks in a safe condition. If a truck accident is caused by a mechanical failure that could have been prevented with proper maintenance, the trucking company may be liable.  

The Cargo Company

The cargo company can also be held liable for a truck accident if the accident was caused by improperly loaded or secured cargo. Cargo that is not properly loaded or secured can shift during transport, which can cause the truck to become unbalanced and crash.

The Truck Manufacturer

The truck manufacturer can be held liable for a truck accident if the accident was caused by a defect in the truck's design or manufacturing. For example, if a truck accident is caused by a brake failure that was caused by a defective braking system, the truck manufacturer may be liable.

The Truck Mechanic

The truck mechanic can also be responsible for a truck accident if the accident was caused by negligent maintenance or repairs. For example, if a truck mechanic fails to properly repair a brake system, and the brakes fail later, causing an accident, the mechanic may be liable.

Here is a table summarizing the parties who can be held liable for a truck accident:

Determining Liability in a Truck Accident Case

Determining liability in a truck accident case requires a thorough investigation. Our law firm will gather evidence to identify all responsible parties and build a strong case on your behalf. This may involve:

• Investigating the accident scene: Our team will visit the crash scene to gather crucial evidence, such as skid marks, debris, and road conditions.
• Gathering witness statements: We will interview witnesses to gather firsthand accounts of the accident.
• Obtaining the police report: The police report contains valuable information about the accident, including the names of the involved parties and initial findings.
• Reviewing medical records: Your medical records will document your injuries and the extent of your treatment.
• Inspecting the truck: A thorough inspection of the truck can reveal mechanical issues that may have contributed to the accident.
• Reviewing the truck driver's records: Examining the driver's driving history, hours of service logs, and drug and alcohol tests can uncover evidence of negligence.
• Hiring accident reconstruction specialists: In complex cases, we may enlist the help of experts to recreate the accident and determine the cause.

If multiple parties contributed to your truck accident, we’ll ensure their negligence is included in your case so that you can obtain the full value of your damages.

New York’s Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Cases

It's crucial to act quickly after a truck accident. New York has a statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit. In most personal injury cases, including truck accidents, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident. However, there are exceptions, and the specific timeframe may vary depending on the circumstances.

Why You Need a New York Truck Accident Attorney

In the aftermath of a truck accident, the physical, emotional, and financial burdens can be overwhelming. An experienced truck accident lawyer can provide the following benefits to help you through this difficult time:

• Deep knowledge of truck accident law: Attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of complex trucking regulations and how they apply to accident cases.
• Thorough investigation and evidence gathering: Lawyers have the resources to meticulously investigate accidents, collect vital evidence, and build compelling cases.
• Skilled negotiation with insurance companies: Attorneys can effectively handle aggressive insurance adjusters, protecting your rights and maximizing your settlement.
• Accurate determination of liability: Lawyers can pinpoint all potentially responsible parties and assign liability appropriately.
• Comprehensive calculation of damages: Attorneys assess the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
• Aggressive representation in court: If a settlement cannot be reached, experienced attorneys will litigate your case vigorously.
• Peace of mind and focus on recovery: Having a legal professional handle the complexities of your case allows you to concentrate on healing.
• Maximized compensation: Attorneys strive to secure the highest possible compensation for your injuries and losses.
• Efficient handling of paperwork and deadlines: Lawyers manage legal paperwork, ensuring all necessary documents are filed promptly.
• Access to expert witnesses: If required, attorneys can hire experts to strengthen your case.

Our legal team at The Ahearne Law Firm, PLLC, understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take on victims and their families. We are committed to providing compassionate and aggressive representation to help you recover the compensation you deserve.