Truck Driver Negligence

Truck Accident Liability

Although many New York truck accidents are caused by unsafe road conditions or bad weather, truck driver negligence is often a contributing factor in many tractor trailer crashes. Truck accidents result in 50,000 deaths and countless injuries every year, so it’s important for motorists to understand truck driver negligence and their rights in the event of a crash.

If you or a loved one has been harmed in a trucking accident, our New York tractor trailer accident attorneys can determine whether truck driver negligence led to your crash. To speak with a truck accident lawyer in New York about your case, fill out our free case review form on the right.

Dangers of Negligent Truck Drivers

Truck driver negligence can occur at any point during the trucker's shift, from the initial loading of the vehicle to the last few miles of the trip. Because of the inherent dangers and excessive size of tractor trailers, proper operation is vital. A slight error or misuse of a large commercial vehicle can cause it to tip, swerve or crash into another vehicle. Additionally, due to the size of tractor trailers, truck drivers must have quicker reaction times than those operating passenger vehicles.

Examples of Truck Driver Negligence

Many truck drivers are required to meet tight deadlines. Unfortunately, to meet their demanding schedules, some truckers resort to aggressive driving tactics. Examples of reckless driving maneuvers include tailgating, speeding, unsafe lane changes and failure to signal. Each of these reckless driving tactics puts other motorists at risk for serious injury, extensive property damage and even death. Pressure to make an appointment or meet a delivery deadline does not excuse a truck driver from liability in the event of a trucking accident. Other examples of negligent truck driving behaviors include:

• Reading, eating or using a cell phone while behind the wheel
• Drinking and driving
• Driving while fatigued

New York Truck Accident Attorneys

Often, a truck driver does not have a malicious intent to drive negligently. They are often forced, by their employers, to take on more trips and meet unrealistic deadlines. Still, this does not excuse a negligent truck driver for putting the safety of other motorists at risk. Individuals who were injured as a result of truck driver negligence may be eligible to recover monetary compensation for their losses.

At Block O’Toole & Murphy, our New York truck accident attorneys have years of experience handling truck accident cases and have compiled a successful track record, recovering substantial tractor trailer accident verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients. To help ensure you are fully compensated for your injuries, we will use our legal experience, resources and knowledge to determine fault for your trucking accident and prepare a strong case for trial. If you or a loved one has been injured in a tractor trailer accident, fill out our free case review form and we will determine your eligibility for a truck accident lawsuit, at no cost to you.