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Given their size and weight, common sense tells you that a collision between a big rig and a car, or even an SUV and a car, is likely to come out badly for the car–and personal injury for anyone in THAT car.
In 2005, New York State reported 8,000 large truck accidents that involved over 16,000 vehicles. And an accident in New York can be more complicated (than a car/car accident) because there are many owners: driver, truck owner, manufacturer, the insurer–and now even parts manufacturers such as for tires and brakes. All these interested parties might get involved, extending any negotiations and making it more expensive process.
New York State has its own inspection program. Additionally, state and federal guidelines, laws and agencies get involved because they oversee the trucking industry–both local and interstate:
— U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
— Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
As with other kinds of automobile collisions, there are various causes of big-rig accidents. Many of these collisions are the result of the same things that cause run-of-the-mill car accidents:
— Poorly maintained trucks,
— Speeding,
— Overly aggressive driving,
— Failing to yield the right of way, or
— Bad driving conditions caused by rain or snow.
Personal injury is foremost. Persons who have been involved in a collision with a trucker are entitled to recover compensation for items such as medical bills, time lost from work, pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, and loss of earning capacity. The complexity of these cases means that you should consult an experienced New York Injury attorney and should NOT rely on the trucking company’s insurance adjuster to look out for your interests.
If you have had an accident and personal injury that involves you and a big-rig (semi) truck, New York City Attorney Stephen Bilkis says that it is important you know your rights–and are protected at every turn after the accident: with the insurance company, with the other driver, and any possible legal action.