Our society relies heavily on truck drivers as they transport goods nationwide. Unfortunately, thousands of people die in trucking accidents every year, and thousands more sustain life-altering injuries. Truck accidents, such as those involving “big rigs” like 18-wheelers, are often devasting due to their size and weight. If you have sustained severe injuries in a truck accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation for the damages you’ve endured. Please continue reading to learn the most common causes of trucking accidents in New York and how an experienced New York City Truck Accident Attorney can help you fight for the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
What Factors Lead to Trucking Accidents?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry. This agency enforces strict rules and safety standards that truck drivers and trucking companies must comply with to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving commercial vehicles. Trucking accidents often arise when motorists fail to adhere to FMCSA regulations.
One of the most common causes of trucking accidents in New York is driver fatigue. Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations limit how many consecutive hours an individual can operate a commercial vehicle. However, there is often immense pressure on drivers to meet strict deadlines. This results in drivers pushing themselves way beyond their limits. Federal regulations require mandated rests after a certain amount of time behind the wheel. Drivers who are too tired can’t operate a vehicle safely.
Moreover, trucks run for thousands of miles in any given year. A mechanical breakdown can quickly escalate into a catastrophic accident. Federal trucking regulations require that drivers and trucking companies systematically perform routine maintenance and inspections. Like any vehicle, trucks need proper upkeep. Comprehensive maintenance is crucial to ensure that vehicles are in a safe condition. Unfortunately, in an attempt to save time and money, many trucking companies postpone necessary maintenance inspections. A lack of maintenance and failure to perform regular inspections can result in hazardous vehicle conditions.
Should I Consult an Attorney?
Unfortunately, determining liability can be difficult as it could fall on the driver, the truck company, or both. That said, it’s in your best interest to retain the legal services of a qualified New York City truck accident attorney who can help you establish fault and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions. At Swerling Law, we are prepared to help you consider your legal options. If you have been seriously injured in a New York City truck accident, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team, who can help you recover the maximum compensation to which you may be entitled for your economic and non-economic losses. Allow our firm to represent your interests today to maximize your chances of achieving favorable results.
