What to Do After a Truck Accident on the Highway: A Legal Guide to Protecting Your Rights
Being hit by a truck on a highway is a terrifying experience that can leave you injured, confused, and overwhelmed. Whether the accident happened on I-95, the Cross Bronx Expressway, or the BQE, knowing what to do after a truck accident can protect your health, your rights, and your future. Here’s a clear legal guide tailored for those in New York navigating the aftermath of a highway truck accident.
At Cohan Law Firm, we’ve seen how devastating these collisions can be and how important it is to act quickly to protect yourself.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention
The first and most important step after a truck accident is ensuring you are safe. If possible, move to the shoulder or a safe area away from traffic. Call 911 immediately and report any injuries.
Even if you feel “fine,” get evaluated by a medical professional. Internal injuries or concussions may not be immediately apparent but can have serious consequences if left untreated.
Seeking medical care also helps legally. Medical records provide crucial documentation for any future truck accident lawsuit or insurance claim.
Step 2: Call the Police and File an Official Report
A police report is crucial. It creates an official record of the accident and is often required when filing an insurance claim or initiating a truck accident lawsuit.
When speaking to the officer:
- Stick to facts
- Don’t speculate or admit fault
- Request a copy or report number for future reference
The presence of law enforcement can also help de-escalate tension at the scene, especially if the truck driver or company representative attempts to assign blame.
Step 3: Document the Scene (If You Can Do So Safely)
If you are physically able:
- Take pictures of the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and visible injuries
- Record videos of the surroundings
- Get contact details of witnesses
- Note the truck’s company name and DOT number (usually visible on the door)
Documenting evidence strengthens your position if you pursue compensation through a truck accident attorney New York City or file a formal truck accident lawsuit.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting any responsibility. Do not agree to any recorded statements without legal advice.
Be aware that insurance adjusters may try to minimize the severity of your claim. Consider discussing your situation with a truck accident lawyer NYC before accepting any offers.
Step 5: Do Not Speak to the Trucking Company’s Insurer
Often, representatives of the trucking company or their insurer may contact you. They may:
- Try to get you to admit fault
- Offer a quick settlement
Politely decline to speak with them until you’ve spoken to an attorney. Their priority is protecting the company, not your rights.
Accepting a settlement too early may limit your ability to recover full damages, especially for long-term injuries or losses.
Step 6: Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer in NYC
Highway truck accidents involve complex legal and insurance issues. You may be dealing with:
- Commercial trucking regulations
- Multiple liable parties
- Serious or catastrophic injuries
An experienced truck accident attorney New York City can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Handle all communication with insurers
- Help you file a truck accident lawsuit if needed
- Maximize your potential compensation
Many truck accident lawyers NYC offer free consultations and work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.
Understanding Your Rights and Legal Options
Victims of 18 wheeler accidents in NYC often face medical bills, vehicle repairs, and emotional distress. You have the right to seek compensation if the accident was caused by negligence, unsafe driving, or mechanical failure.
Compensation may include:
- Emergency medical costs and future treatment
- Lost income from time off work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
A reputable law firm like Cohan Law Firm can evaluate your claim and help determine the most effective course of legal action.
Common Legal Questions After a Truck Crash
What happens if a truck hits you on the highway?
You may suffer significant physical, emotional, and financial damages. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
Can I sue the trucking company?
Yes, especially if the driver was negligent, fatigued, under the influence, or if the company failed to maintain the vehicle.
How do I choose the right lawyer?
Look for an attorney with experience in 18 wheeler accidents in NYC and a proven track record in personal injury law. Local experience matters — laws in New York differ from other states.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
In New York, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, but it’s always best to act sooner.
When to Act
In New York, there is a statute of limitations to file a personal injury claim. Don’t wait. Evidence can disappear and witness memories fade. Acting quickly improves your chances of securing full compensation.
Contacting a legal expert within days — not weeks — of the crash allows your legal team to preserve evidence, contact witnesses, and begin building a strong case.
Schedule Your Free Legal Consultation Today
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident on a New York highway, don’t navigate this alone. At Cohan Law Firm, our experienced team of truck accident lawyers NYC is ready to fight for your rights.
Get a free consultation now — your path to justice and recovery starts with one call.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.