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What Are the Most Common Truck Accident Myths in NY?

Writer's picture: Alex MalteseAlex Maltese

Truck accidents can be devastating and have overwhelming, long-term consequences on people's lives, causing severe injuries and significant monetary losses.


In these cases, victims may have the right to initiate legal action against truck drivers or other responsible parties to recover fair compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. However, it's important to act promptly and make informed decisions.


Unfortunately, false beliefs can hinder injured people's ability to seek justice and pursue compensation. Therefore, those going through this intricate process should identify and clarify such misconceptions to avoid mistakes and maximize their chances of success.


This article contains valuable information that will debunk the most common truck accident myths in NY. Read on! Our team can also consult on common car accident myths in NY.


A Truck Accident Is Just Like a Car Accident

A Truck Accident Is Just Like a Car Accident


While these accidents may appear similar to other motor vehicle incidents, such as car crashes, they come with distinct challenges due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. The increased force of impact in these collisions often results in more severe injuries, such as the following:


  • Traumatic brain injuries, also known as TBIs

  • Spinal cord injuries

  • Internal organ damage

  • Disfigurement

  • Loss of bodily organ or system


Moreover, the legal complexities involved in truck accident cases are significantly greater than those in car crashes. Federal regulations, multiple insurance policies, and the involvement of trucking companies add layers of complexity to the claims process.


Truck Accident Victims Don't Need Legal Representation in New York


Many individuals mistakenly believe that they can navigate the aftermath of a truck accident and independently build their cases. However, the legal system and insurance claims process can be overwhelming, particularly for those recovering from severe injuries.


Seeking legal representation from experienced truck accident attorneys is crucial for victims to protect their rights and maximize compensation. Personal injury lawyers with experience in these cases can assist in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and advocating for a fair settlement.


Truck Drivers Are Always at Fault


While truck drivers may be at fault in some accidents, it's important to remember that other factors can contribute to these collisions. Poor road conditions, equipment failures, and negligence on the part of other drivers can also play a role.


In such accidents, the following parties can be found responsible for the accident and the resulting injuries:


  • Trucking companies

  • Government agencies in charge of maintaining the roads in good conditions

  • Contractors and employers

  • Commercial truck manufacturers


A thorough investigation is necessary to determine the exact cause of the accident and identify all liable parties. Fortunately, experienced semi truck accident lawyers in Long Island can conduct comprehensive research and collect the necessary evidence to build the case, including police reports, witness statements, medical bills, and truck maintenance records.


Trucking Companies Will Protect Victims


Contrary to popular belief, trucking companies aren't always willing to cooperate with accident victims. In fact, they may employ tactics to minimize their liability and avoid paying fair compensation because they focus on protecting their business interests.


Insurance companies, acting on behalf of trucking companies, may attempt to offer lowball settlement offers or deny claims altogether in order to reduce the payout victims are entitled to.


Thankfully, an experienced attorney can level the playing field by negotiating with insurance adjusters and fighting for the client's rights to recover fair compensation for their medical treatment, lost wages, and other related expenses.


Victims Can Only Sue Truck Drivers


As mentioned above, while truck drivers may be directly involved in the accident, other parties may also be held liable. This can include trucking companies, shipping companies, and manufacturers of defective truck parts.


By working with an experienced attorney, injured people can identify all potentially liable parties and file claims against them to hold them accountable and recover fair compensation.


Insurance Companies Will Make a Fair Settlement Offer


Insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to minimize payouts. Therefore, they may use tactics such as delaying claims, denying liability, or offering low settlement offers to achieve this.


It's important to be wary of initial settlement offers from insurance companies, as they may not fully compensate the victim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.


Also, claimants should go over the terms and conditions of their own insurance coverage in order to determine and calculate the damages they're entitled to recover.


Filing a Personal Injury Claim for a Truck Accident Is a Simple Process


Filing a personal injury claim for a truck accident can be a complex process that requires careful attention to detail. Mistakes or missed deadlines can jeopardize the case and limit the ability to recover compensation.


Experienced personal injury attorneys can guide truck accident victims through the claims process, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is filed on time and that their rights are protected.


Insurance Will Cover All Damage

Insurance Will Cover All Damage


While personal injury protection (PIP) insurance may pay for some of the medical expenses, it typically doesn't cover all damages, such as lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.


To recover full compensation for injuries, the victim may need to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party or their insurance company. That's why it's so important to work with an experienced attorney.


Final Thoughts


Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, both physically and emotionally. Plus, these unfortunate situations can affect people's finances.


It's crucial for victims to understand the complexities of these cases and seek legal representation to protect their rights. By working with an experienced truck accident attorney, injured individuals can ensure that their interests are protected and that they receive the compensation they deserve. They can also be helpful when determining common motorcycle accident myths in NY.


Get in Touch With the Law Office of Carl Maltese Today!


If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it's important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. The Law Office of Carl Maltese can provide a free consultation to discuss the case and answer questions.


The experienced truck accident lawyers at our firm will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Don't let insurance companies take advantage of you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

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