Truck accidents in Staten Island are among the most severe types of vehicle collisions due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. These crashes often lead to catastrophic injuries with life-altering consequences for victims and their families.
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP (WRSMH), we represent people who have suffered serious harm and help them recover compensation to rebuild their lives.
Why Truck Accidents Are So Dangerous
Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. When one of these vehicles collides with a passenger car, the results can be devastating. Even low-speed truck accidents can lead to debilitating injuries due to the force involved.
Common contributing factors include:
- Driver fatigue
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Distracted driving
- Improper cargo loading
- Poor vehicle maintenance
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Whiplash is a common but often underestimated injury in truck crashes. It occurs when the head is violently jerked backward and forward, straining the neck and upper back muscles.
Although whiplash may not seem serious at first, it can lead to chronic pain and long-term mobility issues if untreated. Symptoms include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches
- Dizziness or blurred vision
- Limited range of motion
Broken Bones and Fractures
The impact of a truck collision frequently results in broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and face. In some cases, compound fractures may lead to infections or permanent deformities. Victims are often left with substantial medical treatment costs.
These injuries often require:
- Surgery and hardware implantation
- Long-term physical therapy
- Extended time away from work
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating outcomes of a truck crash. These injuries typically require lifelong medical care, assistive devices, and home modifications. The financial and emotional toll is enormous.
Damage to the spine can result in:
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Loss of sensation or motor control
- Chronic pain and nerve damage
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
A traumatic brain injury occurs when the head suffers a violent blow or sudden jolt, leading to disruptions in brain function. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe cognitive impairments, with victims often requiring extensive rehabilitation and may never fully recover their pre-accident quality of life.
Common symptoms include:
- Memory loss and difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings or personality changes
- Seizures
- Speech or coordination problems
Internal Injuries
Truck collisions can cause blunt-force trauma that damages internal organs like the lungs, liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not be immediately apparent.
Signs of internal injury include:
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or fainting
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical. Delayed care can result in fatal complications.
Legal Considerations for Truck Accident Victims in Staten Island
Truck accident injuries in Staten Island often involve complex legal issues due to multiple liable parties, which may include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- Cargo loaders
- Vehicle maintenance providers
- Truck or parts manufacturers
- Drivers in other vehicles
At WRSMH, we thoroughly investigate every detail of your accident to identify all responsible parties. We use accident reconstruction experts, review maintenance logs, and analyze driver records to build a compelling case.
Recovering Compensation After a Truck Accident
Victims of truck crashes may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical treatment costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation and long-term care
- Emotional distress
In cases of severe injuries like spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries, we work with medical and economic experts to project long-term costs and ensure you receive the full amount you deserve.
What to Do After a Semi-Truck Accident
Being struck by a semi-truck is one of the most traumatic events a person can experience. These collisions often cause catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of the truck. In the aftermath, taking the right steps can protect your health, preserve evidence, and strengthen your injury claim.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately.
- Call 911 and File a Police Report: Make sure the police document the scene. The report will be crucial for any legal action and may include details about the truck driver, witnesses, and fault.
- Collect Evidence: If you’re able, take photos of the vehicles, skid marks, injuries, and road conditions. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies Alone: Trucking companies often dispatch investigators quickly. Do not provide statements or accept settlements before consulting a lawyer.
- Contact a Qualified Truck Accident Attorney: At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we have the resources and experience to take on powerful trucking and insurance companies. We’ll investigate, preserve critical evidence, and fight for full compensation.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
New York law imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury claims. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. But delays can weaken your case by allowing evidence to be lost or witnesses to become unavailable. Moreover, if your accident involved a city vehicle or public agency, you may have as little as 90 days to file a notice of claim.
How Our Law Firm Can Help
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we have more than 50 years of experience handling complex truck accident cases. Our firm has secured over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements for injury victims throughout New York City.
Here’s what we bring to the table:
- A team of seasoned trial attorneys and investigators
- Access to top medical and engineering experts
- A relentless approach to securing maximum compensation
- Compassionate, one-on-one client service
When you work with WRSMH, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a powerhouse legal team that’s committed to your recovery.
Speak With Our Trusted Staten Island Truck Accident Lawyers
If you have suffered truck accident injuries, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Let our Staten Island truck accident attorneys protect your rights and fight for the compensation you need. Call (212) 986-7353 to schedule your free consultation today.