5 Reasons to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer in NYC After a Highway Crash
Highway truck accidents in New York City can be devastating. From severe injuries to complex legal implications, victims are often left overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of what steps to take. If you or a loved one has been hit by a truck on a NYC highway, hiring a qualified truck accident lawyer in NYC could be the most crucial decision you make.
Here are five compelling reasons why legal representation is essential after a truck accident in New York City.
1. Understanding Your Legal Rights and Options
The aftermath of a truck accident can be legally complex. Victims often don’t know their rights or the compensation they may be entitled to.
- A seasoned truck accident attorney in New York City can explain your rights clearly.
- They assess your case based on New York traffic and personal injury laws.
- You’ll get guidance on whether to file a truck accident lawsuit or seek a settlement.
It’s also important to understand the statute of limitations in New York. Victims typically have three years to file a personal injury claim, but that window may be shorter if a government entity is involved. Missing deadlines can bar you from recovering compensation.
Without legal counsel, you may unknowingly waive critical rights or accept a lowball offer from insurers.
At Cohan Law Firm, we frequently assist clients who were initially unaware of the full range of their rights. Our team ensures every angle is considered before taking any legal action.
2. Handling Insurance Companies
Insurance companies don’t work for you—they protect their bottom line. After a truck accident, you may be contacted quickly by adjusters who seem helpful but are trained to minimize payouts.
- Your attorney speaks with insurers on your behalf.
- They negotiate assertively to pursue maximum compensation.
- They help document injuries and damages to justify your claim.
Insurance companies often dispute liability or argue that the victim shares fault. An experienced truck accident lawyer in NYC knows how to counter these tactics and build a strong case.
Truck accident lawyers in NYC are experienced in countering tactics used by big insurance firms.
3. Determining Liability in Complex Cases
Truck accidents often involve multiple parties: the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or vehicle manufacturers. Determining who is at fault requires investigation and legal acumen.
- Attorneys conduct thorough investigations: police reports, witness statements, black box data.
- They identify all liable parties to expand compensation sources.
- They use expert witnesses if needed (e.g., accident reconstruction specialists).
For instance, if the truck driver was fatigued or failed to follow federal Hours of Service regulations, the trucking company could be held accountable for negligent scheduling. Similarly, if improperly loaded cargo caused the crash, the loading company may share liability.
NYC truck accident cases are rarely straightforward. Legal help ensures no liable party escapes accountability.
4. Maximizing Financial Compensation
Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to significant compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
In cases of catastrophic injury, such as traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage, the financial toll can be immense. A skilled truck accident attorney works with medical professionals and financial experts to calculate lifetime care costs.
They may also pursue punitive damages if the defendant’s behavior was egregiously negligent—for example, if the driver was intoxicated or falsified driving logs.
Your truck accident attorney calculates both tangible and intangible losses to ensure fair value. They know how to counteract defense strategies that downplay your injuries.
5. Relieving Legal Stress So You Can Heal
Recovering from a highway truck accident is emotionally and physically taxing. Legal procedures can become a burden.
- Your lawyer handles paperwork, filings, and court appearances.
- They keep you informed without overwhelming you.
- You focus on healing while they pursue justice.
You may need months of rehabilitation, multiple surgeries, or psychological counseling. During this period, your truck accident attorney in New York City acts as your advocate, ensuring your legal matters are under control so you can prioritize your recovery.
Don’t carry the weight alone. A compassionate legal team can be your strongest ally.
Common Types of Truck Accidents on NYC Highways
New York City highways are notorious for high traffic density, narrow lanes, and construction zones. These factors contribute to:
- Rear-end collisions involving semi-trucks and cars.
- Jackknife accidents caused by sudden braking.
- Rollover crashes on sharp turns or ramps.
- Underride accidents, where a car gets stuck under a trailer.
According to NYC DOT data, truck accidents on highways like the BQE and I-95 result in hundreds of serious injuries annually. Victims often face long recovery times and permanent disabilities.
Costly Mistakes Victims Make Without Legal Help
Victims who do not seek prompt legal counsel risk making serious mistakes that weaken their cases:
- Giving recorded statements to insurers without legal advice.
- Accepting quick settlements before understanding their injuries.
- Missing medical appointments, which insurers use to dispute injury severity.
- Posting about the accident or injuries on social media.
An experienced truck accident attorney will guide you through every step, helping you avoid these pitfalls.
FAQ: Questions Clients Commonly Ask After a Truck Accident
What if I was partially at fault?
New York follows comparative negligence rules. Even if you were partly at fault, you can still recover damages. Your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Can I sue the trucking company directly?
Yes. If the truck driver was working within the scope of employment, the trucking company can be held liable for their actions, in addition to any separate negligence on the company’s part.
How long does a truck accident case take?
Each case varies. Some settle in a few months, while others may take over a year if litigation is required. Your attorney can give you an accurate timeline after reviewing your case.
Additional Support: What to Do After a Truck Accident
Knowing what to do in the moments after a collision can protect both your health and your legal rights:
- Move to a safe area, if possible.
- Call 911 to report the crash and request medical assistance.
- Exchange information with the truck driver.
- Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and all vehicles involved.
- Avoid admitting fault.
- Get medical care immediately—even if you feel fine.
- Contact a truck accident lawyer before speaking to the insurance company.
These steps can make a significant difference when building your truck accident lawsuit.
Call Now for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has suffered a truck accident in New York City, don’t wait. Contact Cohan Law Firm today for a free consultation with a trusted truck accident lawyer.
We’re here to protect your rights, maximize your recovery, and bring clarity to this difficult time. Call us or start a live chat on our website—we’re ready to help.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.