We Represent Truck Accident Victims in Queens

At Poltielov Law Firm P.C., our Queens truck accident attorney has the knowledge and experience that victims and families can trust. We provide award-winning legal representation. If you or your loved one was hurt in a crash with a tractor-trailer, our team is more than ready to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and free case evaluation with a top Queens semi-truck accident lawyer.

Truck Accidents are More Likely to Cause Catastrophic Injuries

A fully loaded tractor-trailer in Queens can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. These large trucks dwarf the size of passenger cars. The sheer size and weight of commercial truck vehicles mean they generate much greater force on impact. Eighteen-wheeler accidents are disproportionately likely to result in catastrophic injuries or life-altering harm.

Some of the most common truck accident injuries that are reported in Queens include:

Serious injuries from large trucks often require extensive medical treatment and ongoing care. Victims may face mounting medical bills and struggle with physical injuries that prevent them from returning to work.

Understanding Commercial Truck Accidents in Queens

Commercial truck accidents happen for many different reasons across New York City and Queens. Truck drivers may cause crashes due to driver fatigue, distracted driving, or failure to follow federal regulations. Trucking company negligence can include poor hiring practices, inadequate training, or pressure on drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines.

Mechanical failures also play a role in many truck accident cases. When vehicle maintenance is ignored, brake failures or tire blowouts can occur. Truck manufacturers may be held accountable when defective parts contribute to a collision. Cargo loaders who improperly secure freight can create dangerous conditions on the road.

Poor driving conditions and the actions of other drivers can also lead to semi-truck crashes. However, truck drivers and trucking company operators are held to higher standards than regular motorists. An experienced truck accident attorney will investigate all potentially liable parties to determine liability and identify every source of insurance coverage.

Your Guide to Commercial Truck Accident Liability in New York

Commercial truck accidents in New York are governed by both no-fault and fault-based liability rules. After a crash, your first step is to turn to your own auto insurer for benefits under New York’s no-fault law. These Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits cover medical expenses and some lost wages. That is true regardless of who caused the commercial truck accident. Truck accidents that result in only minor injuries are strictly no-fault cases in New York.

However, if your injuries are “serious” under state law, you can step outside the no-fault system and pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault truck driver, their employer, or other liable parties. These claims allow you to recover full compensation, including for pain and suffering. Liability is determined based on negligence. Multiple parties (truckers, trucking company operators, vehicle manufacturer representatives, etc.) may share responsibility for the crash.

A thorough investigation by a Queens truck accident lawyer is a must. Accident reconstruction experts can help piece together what happened at the accident scene. Police reports and witness statements provide critical evidence. An experienced truck accident lawyer knows how to gather documentation and build a strong case for fair compensation.

Know the Deadline: Two-Year Statute of Limitations

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a truck accident is three years. You must take civil legal action within three years of the date the crash occurred. If you miss the deadline, you likely lose your right to recover compensation. Only very narrow exceptions to the rule apply.

Do not wait to take action. Consult with a Queens, NY accident lawyer right away after a bad crash in New York. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and start building your case immediately.

Fighting for the Maximum Compensation After a Crash

In New York, truck accident victims have the right to seek compensation for the full extent of their damages, including for any non-economic losses. With that being said, insurance companies often make it extremely challenging for victims to access the full and proper compensation that they deserve. Our Queens commercial truck accident lawyer can help.

Insurance companies may offer quick settlements that fall far short of what victims actually need. Insurance company offers rarely account for future medical needs or long-term disability. Multiple insurance companies may be involved when commercial truck accidents occur, making insurance claims more complicated.

Along with other damages, we help truck accident victims in Queens seek compensation for:

  • Wrongful death;
  • Automobile repairs and personal property damaged;
  • Emergency medical costs; 
  • Hospital bills; 
  • Other health care costs; 
  • Loss of wages; 
  • Loss of earning power; 
  • Pain and suffering; 
  • Emotional distress;
  • Long-term disability; and
  • Reduced quality of life.

Getting Fair Compensation for Your Injuries

A Queens truck accident attorney fights to secure a fair settlement that reflects the true cost of your injuries. This includes both economic damages like medical bills and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Major injuries from semi-truck accident collisions often result in life-changing consequences that deserve full compensation.

The goal is always maximum compensation for our clients. Whether through settlement negotiations or personal injury lawsuits, we pursue every dollar you deserve. An experienced truck accident attorney understands how to value truck accident cases properly and won’t accept lowball offers from insurance companies.

How Our Queens Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a commercial truck accident can be challenging. You may have a lot of questions about your rights and your legal options. Do not take on the big insurance companies alone. R. Ariel Poltielov has a record of case results that you can trust. We provide proactive advocacy. Among other things, our Queens truck accident attorney is prepared to: 

  • Hear your story and answer questions about your truck accident case
  • Investigate your truck accident in Queens, gathering relevant evidence
  • Represent you in any settlement negotiations with insurers
  • Develop a comprehensive strategy focused on maximizing your compensation
  • Handle all communication with multiple insurance companies
  • File truck accident lawsuits when necessary
  • Identify all responsible parties who should be held accountable

Our law firm has helped countless victims recover fair compensation after serious injuries. We understand the legal system and know how to build winning cases. From gathering medical records to consulting with accident reconstruction experts, we handle every detail.

Experience That Makes a Difference

An experienced truck accident lawyer brings knowledge of both state and federal regulations that apply to trucking company operations. This expertise helps us determine liability and identify violations that contributed to your crash. Whether the cause was driver fatigue, mechanical failures, or distracted driving, we investigate thoroughly.

Our law firm also understands how delivery trucks, semi-truck vehicles, and other large trucks differ from regular car accidents. These cases involve different rules, higher insurance limits, and more potentially liable parties. You need a truck accident lawyer who knows how to handle complex commercial truck accidents.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Queens

Truck accident crashes happen for many reasons on Queens roads and highways. Understanding these causes helps victims and families recognize when they have valid truck accident claim cases. Some frequent causes include:

Driver fatigue remains one of the leading factors in semi-truck collisions. Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, some truck drivers push beyond safe limits. Trucking company pressure to meet deadlines can encourage this dangerous behavior.

Distracted driving puts everyone at risk. When a truck driver uses a phone, eats, or loses focus, the results can be devastating. The size of large trucks means even a moment of inattention can cause severe injuries.

Mechanical failures occur when vehicle maintenance is neglected. Brake problems, tire issues, and other equipment failures can make it impossible to control a vehicle safely. Trucking company owners who skip maintenance to save money put innocent people in danger.

Truck Accidents in Queens: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I See a Doctor After a Truck Accident?

Yes. All truck accident injuries in Queens should be evaluated and treated by an experienced physician. Not only is seeing a doctor a must for your health and safety, but it is also a required step for a personal injury claim. You cannot get truck accident compensation without medical records. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine at first. Some serious injuries, like traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms right away.

Does New York’s No-Fault Law Apply to Truck Accident Injuries?

Yes. It applies to truck accidents. Under New York’s no-fault insurance system, your own auto insurance pays for medical expenses and lost wages (up to $50,000) regardless of who caused the crash. This is known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP). However, if your injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold, you can file a fault-based personal injury claim against responsible parties.

Can I Sue the Trucking Company After a Crash in Queens?

It depends. If you only had a minor injury, your claim is likely only a no-fault claim through your own PIP insurer. However, you can bring a fault-based claim if you sustained a serious injury. Further, if the truck driver was working at the time of the crash, their employer may be legally responsible under a doctrine called vicarious liability. That company may be sued if your truck accident injury claim cannot be settled. Trucking company liability often provides access to larger insurance policies.

How is a “Serious Injury” Defined in a Truck Accident Case in New York?

The term “serious injury” is defined under New York Insurance Law § 5102(d). It includes injuries like broken bones, significant disfigurement, or a substantial limitation of a body function. Traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, and other severe injuries typically qualify. If you are unsure as to whether your specific injury qualifies, you should consult with an experienced truck accident attorney. Do not assume you are prohibited from bringing a fault-based claim.

What Should I Do at the Accident Scene After a Truck Crash?

If you are physically able, take several important steps at the accident scene. First, call 911 to get medical attention and create an official police report. Police reports serve as important evidence in truck accident cases. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from other drivers and witnesses. Witness statements can be valuable later. Avoid discussing fault with anyone except the police. Then contact a Queens truck accident lawyer as soon as possible.

How Long Do Truck Accident Cases Take to Resolve?

Truck accident cases vary in length depending on the severity of injuries and the willingness of insurance companies to offer fair settlement amounts. Some cases settle in months, while others may take longer if truck accident lawsuits must be filed. Complex cases involving multiple insurance companies or disputes about liable parties require more time. Your accident lawyer will work efficiently while ensuring you receive maximum compensation. Never rush to accept insurance company offers without consulting an experienced attorney.

What Types of Trucks Are Involved in Accidents in Queens?

Many types of large trucks travel through Queens daily. Semi-truck vehicles, delivery trucks, tractor-trailers, and eighteen-wheelers all pose risks. Each type of commercial truck has unique characteristics that can contribute to accidents. Truck accident investigations must account for these differences. Whether you were hit by a delivery truck making local stops or a semi-truck on the highway, an experienced truck accident lawyer can help you pursue a truck accident claim.

Can I Recover Compensation for Property Damage and Car Repairs?

Yes. Property damage compensation is available in truck accident cases. This includes repair costs or replacement value if your vehicle is totaled. You may also recover for personal property damaged in the crash, such as electronics or personal items. While property damage claims are often less complicated than injury claims, an accident lawyer ensures you receive full value. Don’t accept low offers from insurance companies that don’t cover your actual losses.

Contact Our Queens Truck Accident Attorney Today

At Poltielov Law Firm P.C., our Queens tractor-trailer accident lawyer fights for justice and the maximum compensation for victims and families. If you or your loved one was hurt in a bad wreck, we are here to help. Contact us now for a free legal consultation and no-commitment case evaluation.

Our law firm handles truck accident injury claims in Queens and throughout the wider region in New York City and New York State. We have experience with all types of car accidents and commercial truck accidents. From wrongful death cases to personal injury lawsuits, we provide strong legal representation you can trust. Call today at 718-880-2911 to discuss your truck accident in Queens with an experienced truck accident attorney who cares about your recovery.