Improper Lane Truck Crash Lawyers in Albany, NY

When Trucks Change Lanes Recklessly, Lives Are Shattered

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident caused by an improper lane change, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed. You must have concerns, even stress or anger perhaps. But you're not alone in that regard. And you don't have to, anymore. An Albany truck accident attorney can make all the difference.

Horn Wright, LLP, has helped thousands of individuals precisely like you when they required all the compensatory damages that allow them to rehabilitate. We see the pain, the frustration, and the unanswered questions. Let us fight for you and help you reclaim your life.

Why Are Truck Drivers Risking Lives with Dangerous Lane Changes in Albany?

Albany roads are a mess. Between I-87 and neighborhood streets like Central Avenue, cars, trucks, and distracted drivers all mix in together. Trucks are supposed to share the road safely, but a bad lane change can cause severe accidents.

So why does it happen? Some of the most significant reasons:

• Blind spots: Trucks have enormous blind spots, sometimes called "no-zones," where smaller vehicles entirely disappear from the driver's line of sight. They are on both sides of the truck, particularly around the back corners and on the passenger side. A driver who doesn't check his or her blind spots twice may run into other cars moving parallel to them.
• Driver fatigue: Long hours of driving take a serious toll on a trucker's focus. Federal regulations require drivers to follow hours-of-service rules, but these rules are sometimes ignored. Fatigue impairs reaction times and decision-making, leading to poor choices like unsafe lane changes.
• Distractions: Smartphones, onboard GPS systems, and all other distractions are available. It takes a split second of inattention for a driver to drift into another lane without realizing it.
• Weather conditions: Albany gets its share of bad weather—rain, snow, and fog. All these conditions reduce visibility and increase stopping distances, making every lane change riskier.
• Lack of training: Not all truck drivers have the training needed to safely operate a big rig. Poor training leaves drivers unprepared to manage blind spots or maneuver large vehicles in tight traffic.

Improper lane changes also frequently violate New York Vehicle and Traffic Law §1128, which requires that a driver remain within his or her lane unless a lane change can be made safely. It is negligence, plain and simple, to violate this law.

The Devastating Truth: Why Truck Lane Changes Lead to Severe Injuries

A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh 80,000 pounds, but the average car weighs only 3,000 pounds. When a truck changes lanes improperly, there is often enough force to crush smaller vehicles into other lanes or off the side of the road. The enormity and the weight of the vehicle make such injuries more intense.

Some common injuries from lane change accidents:

• Head trauma: A strong blow may cause concussion or even TBI, leading to cognitive function impairment, memory, and coordination problems. Months or even years can pass before a person is able to regain his or her cognitive functions.
• Spinal cord injuries: The truck accident force can also damage the spinal cord and lead to partial or complete paralysis. Such injuries usually require a lifetime of medical care.
• Broken bones: Fractures, especially to the arms, legs, or ribs, often occur in truck crashes. Some involve multiple surgeries and extensive physical therapy to heal.
• Internal injuries: The force from a truck wreck can damage the internal organs with potentially life-threatening complications.
• Serious cuts or scars: Shards of broken glass and twisted metal flying about often cause significant lacerations. In some instances, these may leave permanent scarring.

What Should You Do After a Truck Slams Into Your Vehicle?

A truck accident can flip your world upside down. Don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Here’s a quick rundown of what to do after an accident:

Take care of your health first. If you're injured, you should seek immediate medical attention. Even if you feel "alright," visit a doctor—the injury may have internal bleeding, a concussion, or other non-apparent causes. Keep all your medical records and bills; you will need those for your claim.

Call the police: The official accident report is a key piece of evidence. The police will document the scene, interview witnesses, and determine if the truck driver violated traffic laws.

Collect evidence: Use your phone to capture pictures of the damage to your car, the position of the truck, road conditions, skid marks, and even your injuries. These images may help narrate what happened. Do not forget to collect contact information from witnesses.

Do not accept fault: You may be tempted to apologize or take some of the blame. Resist this temptation. Fault determination is a complicated process; leave it to the investigators.

Talk to a lawyer: Truck accidents are complicated. You need someone who understands the trucking industry, New York traffic laws, and the tactics used by insurance companies. A skilled improper lane change truck accident lawyer can help protect your rights and guide you toward the compensation you deserve.

Every step you take after the accident sets the tone for your case. Acting quickly and strategically can make a big difference in the outcome.

Who’s Really to Blame for These Dangerous Truck Accidents?

Most of the time, improper lane changes boil down to one thing: negligence. Whether it’s the truck driver or their company, someone made a careless choice that put you in harm’s way.

Negligence often looks like failure to signal, speeding, and breaking traffic rules. A trucker who does not use their turn signal leaves you guessing-and that is dangerous. Also, going too fast makes it hard to control the truck, especially when merging. And when a trucker ignore road signs, such as "no trucks in this lane," he puts everyone at risk. Remember, truckers must comply with New York's VTL §1163, which requires them to signal before changing lanes.

Companies may also be held responsible. If the driver was not adequately trained or the truck was not maintained, the company could be held liable for your accident.

Don’t Fight Alone: Why You Need an Albany Lawyer After a Truck Lane Change Accident

A truck accident can turn your life upside down. This is why it is important to hire one of the top law firms in America.  Horn Wright, LLP will fight for you to get the justice and compensation you deserve. We know this process is a little overwhelming; however, you do not have to go through it alone. Let us guide you in getting back on track. 

Contact us today for a free consultation.