We Handle All Types of Truck Accident Claims in Forest Hills

At Poltielov Law Firm P.C., our Forest Hills semi-truck accident lawyer is committed to providing top-tier legal advocacy to victims and families. Big truck companies and their insurance carriers must be held accountable after a serious crash. If you or your loved one was hurt in a collision, we have the experience you can trust. Contact us today at our Forest Hills law office to set up a free, no obligation initial consultation with an experienced New York truck accident lawyer. 

Truck Accidents Happen For Many Reasons (But Can Be Prevented)

Commercial truck accidents can happen for a wide range of different reasons. With that being said, these dangerous crashes can generally be prevented with proper safety precautions. Indeed, most truck accidents in Forest Hills happen because one or more parties were negligent. Some of the most common examples of negligence that contribute to truck accidents include: 

  • Poor training; 
  • Speeding; 
  • Trucker fatigue; 
  • Distracted driving; 
  • Poor truck maintenance; and
  • Overloaded cargo.

Know The Law: Truck Accident Liability in New York

Liability is a key issue in a truck accident injury claim. To hold another party legally responsible for your damages after a crash in Forest Hills, you must prove that they are liable for the collision. Notably, New York is a no-fault state for motor vehicle accidents, including truck accident cases. Under the state’s comprehensive no-fault law, injured victims must first file a claim with their own insurer for basic benefits, including medical treatment and a portion of lost income. These benefits are limited and do not compensate for non-economic losses. 

However, fault-based claims are possible in some truck accident cases. To pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the truck driver or trucking company, a victim must meet New York’s “serious injury” threshold as defined by Insurance Law § 5102(d). Once that threshold is met, the case becomes a fault-based claim where liability is based on negligence. Fault-based commercial trucking cases often involve multiple potential defendants. As such, a serious crash should be carefully investigated by an experienced Forest Hills truck accident attorney.

Statute of Limitations for Truck Accidents

Truck accident injury claims are time-sensitive. New York law gives injured victims three years to file a personal injury lawsuit after a truck accident. To be clear, the clock starts running on the date of the collision. What happens if you wait too long to take action? As only very narrow exceptions exist, failing to file within this three-year period typically results in your claim being dismissed without a hearing. Be proactive: Speak to a Forest Hills truck accident lawyer right away. 

Fighting for the Maximum Compensation for Truck Crash Victims in Forest Hills

Hurt in a crash with an eighteen wheeler in Forest Hills, it is imperative that you are able to access the full and fair compensation that you deserve. Unfortunately, big truck companies and large commercial insurers fight to pay out as little as possible in claims. You do not have to take them on alone. Our Forest Hills, NY truck accident lawyers will help you fight for the maximum financial compensation. Along with other damages, you may be able to recover for: 

  • Property loss;
  • Emergency medical treatment; 
  • Hospital bills and other health care costs; 
  • Loss of wages and loss of earning power; 
  • Pain and suffering; 
  • Long-term disability; 
  • Reduced quality of life; and 
  • Wrongful death of a family member. 

How Our Forest Hills Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

After a crash with a large truck in Forest Hills, it is normal to feel stressed out and overwhelmed. R. Ariel Poltielov is standing by, ready to help you navigate the challenges of the claims process. Our case results demonstrate what we can do for victims and their families. We are proactive and justice focused. When you reach out to our Forest Hills law office, you will have an opportunity to consult with a New York truck accident lawyer who is prepared to: 

  • Hear your story and answer questions about your case; 
  • Investigate your crash in Forest Hills, with a focus on gathering evidence; 
  • Handle the personal injury paperwork and insurance settlement talks; and
  • Fight aggressively with a mission to maximize your financial recovery.

Truck Accidents in Forest Hills: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I Speak to the Trucking Company’s Insurance Adjuster After a Crash in Forest Hills?

No. You should not speak to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster without first consulting with an experienced Forest Hills, NY truck accident attorney. Insurers are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize the company’s liability and pay you as little as possible. Anything you say can be used against you, even if it seems harmless. Your lawyer will protect your rights. 

What Evidence Should I Collect After a Truck Crash?

The more, the better. If possible, gather photos of the scene, damage to all vehicles, your injuries, and any road conditions. You should also try to get the truck driver’s license, registration, employer information, and insurance details. Finally, if applicable, try to collect witness names and contact information. A lawyer can help with the investigation. 

Can I Still Seek Compensation Even If I Was Partially At Fault?

Yes. To start, New York is a no-fault state. Your initial claim is always through your own PIP carrier. Beyond that, New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule for fault-based truck accident claims. As such, you can still recover damages even if you were partially to blame. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 30 percent at fault for a crash in Forest Hills, your recovery will be reduced by 30 percent.

Contact Our Forest Hills Semi-Truck Crash Lawyer Today

At Poltielov Law Firm P.C., our Forest Hills commercial truck accident attorney is always ready to go the extra mile to help victims and families fight for justice. Hurt in a serious semi-truck accident. Contact us right away for a free, no obligation initial consultation. With an office in Forest Hills, we handle truck accident cases throughout the surrounding region in New York.