Big Rig Accident Lawyer in Westbury

Were you involved in an incident with a big rig? Collisions involving large commercial trucks can cause catastrophic injuries and yield life-altering consequences for everyone, especially those who are hit by such massive vehicles. 

The aftermath of a big rig crash can leave victims feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and confused. However, we want you to know that you’re not alone, especially when you reach out to a big rig accident lawyer in Westbury. 

At Levine And Wiss, we’ve recovered hundreds of millions in compensation. With over 100 years of combined experience, our attorneys know how to handle cases just like yours. As your Westbury truck accident lawyer, we will stand by your side throughout the entire process.

The Dangers of Big Rig Accidents

Also known as 18-wheelers or semi-trucks, big rigs can weigh upwards of 80,000 pounds when they’re fully loaded. This sheer mass means that any collision involving a passenger vehicle is likely to result in severe—if not fatal—injuries for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. 

Common injuries sustained by victims of these crashes include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, internal bleeding, and long-term psychological trauma. These collisions often occur at high speeds and involve multi-vehicle pileups, especially on highways. 

There are many dangers involved in collisions of this kind, but help is available for those who are injured. The sooner you contact a Westbury personal injury lawyer, the sooner your attorney can start working on your case. 

Common Causes of Big Rig Accidents in Westbury

Several factors contribute to big rig accidents, many of which are preventable. These are common examples of causes behind these incidents: 

• Driver fatigue 
• High speeds 
• Mechanical failure 
• Improperly loaded cargo 
• Distracted driving 

Driver Fatigue

Driver fatigue is a leading cause because truckers often operate under tight deadlines that encourage drivers to push themselves beyond legal limits. 

While federal regulations require rest breaks and maximum driving hours under the Hours of Service (HOS) rules, violations are unfortunately not uncommon.

High Speeds

Speeding is another major contributor. Large trucks require much more time and distance to come to a complete stop. When truck drivers speed or fail to adjust in response to weather and road conditions, the risk of getting into an accident increases.

Mechanical Failure

Mechanical failures also play a role. Worn-out brakes, underinflated tires, or malfunctioning lights can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Improper or irregular maintenance by trucking companies often underlies these mechanical issues.

Improperly Loaded Cargo

Improperly loaded cargo is yet another contributing factor in collisions. When freight is not secured or balanced properly, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced and potentially flip over. 

Overloaded trucks also pose a risk as they are harder to control and more likely to suffer mechanical breakdowns.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving, substance abuse, and insufficient driver training can all further exacerbate the risks on Westbury roads. Surveillance footage, black box data, and inspection logs often provide evidence in these types of cases, highlighting violations or negligence.

Federal and State Regulations for Big Rigs

New York’s Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) both govern the operation of commercial motor vehicles. These agencies impose rules designed to protect public safety.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

Drivers of big rigs must hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and adhere to strict training and testing requirements. They must also comply with drug and alcohol testing policies and are subject to routine inspections.

FMCSA’s Hours of Service Regulations

The FMCSA’s Hours of Service regulations are particularly important when it comes to preventing fatigue-related accidents. Drivers are limited in how many hours they can drive per day and per week. 

In other words, they must take mandatory rest breaks. These logs have to be recorded electronically and made available during investigations as well.

Weight Limits and Cargo Securement Rules

Weight limits and cargo securement rules also fall under federal guidelines. Trucks traveling through Westbury and other New York jurisdictions must pass weigh stations and undergo random safety checks. 

When violations are discovered—such as overloaded trailers or poorly maintained vehicles—trucking companies may face fines and be held liable for resulting damages.

Parties That May Be Held Liable

A very important aspect of big rig accident cases is the process of determining liability. You won’t have to figure this out on your own. Rather, it’s a responsibility that your Westbury big rig accident attorneys will handle on your behalf. 

Unlike standard car accidents that typically only involve the drivers, it’s not uncommon for big rig collisions to involve multiple parties. Let’s take a look at potentially liable parties in a crash of this kind. 

The Truck Driver

The truck driver may be directly responsible if their behavior—such as texting while driving, speeding, or driving under the influence—caused the accident. 

Trucking Companies

Trucking companies can also be held liable. Under the legal doctrine of “respondeat superior,” employers are generally responsible for the actions of their employees when those actions occur within the scope of employment. 

Additionally, trucking companies may be found negligent if they hire unqualified drivers, fail to conduct proper background checks, or encourage unsafe practices to meet delivery deadlines.

Vehicle Manufacturers

Vehicle manufacturers can be held liable if a defective component—such as faulty brakes or a failed steering mechanism—contributed to the collision. In such cases, a product liability claim may be appropriate.

Third-Party Maintenance Providers

Third-party maintenance providers could also be responsible if they failed to properly inspect or repair parts of the truck. Similarly, companies responsible for loading and securing cargo can be held accountable for accidents caused by improperly loaded freight. 

Trust Our Westbury Big Rig Accident Law Firm With Your Case

The impact of a collision involving a big rig can be overwhelming. Not only is it a stressful experience to go through firsthand, but the aftermath of such a traumatic crash can also leave you feeling very confused and put you in a heightened state of distress. 

When you’re in this headspace, it can be difficult—if not impossible—to think about anything other than how scared, sad, and stressed you are. This makes the idea of pursuing justice and taking legal action even more overwhelming than it already is. 

However, the good news is that you don’t have to figure everything out by yourself. Instead, reach out to the law firm of Levine And Wiss. Our Westbury big rig accident attorneys have the experience it takes to represent you and advocate for your rights every step of the way.