Runaway Truck Crash Attorneys

The Truth About Runaway Truck Accidents in New York And What You Can Do

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, thousands of truck crashes happen each year due to mechanical failures, driver fatigue, and improper maintenance. In New York specifically, the steep grades and winding roads can increase the risk of runaway truck accidents.

And if you’ve been hit by a runaway semi-truck collision, it wasn’t just “bad luck.” Someone failed to do their job, and you shouldn’t have to pay the price. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, can help you hold those responsible accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Are New York’s Trucking Laws Actually Protecting You?

New York has strict trucking laws , but just because rules exist doesn’t mean companies always follow them. Here’s what they’re supposed to be doing:

• Weight Limits – Trucks can only carry so much before they become unsafe. But some companies overload them anyway to cut costs.
• Mandatory Inspections – Brakes, tires, and steering systems need routine checks. Skipping inspections? That’s a disaster waiting to happen.
• Hours of Service Rules – Truckers shouldn’t be driving when they’re dead tired, but some companies pressure them to stay on the road longer than the law allows.
• Emergency Equipment – Every truck must have working emergency brakes, reflectors, and other safety gear. If they don’t? A minor issue can turn deadly.

When trucking companies ignore these rules, you end up paying the price. But they can be held accountable through trucking company liability claims.

A Runaway Truck Hit You—Here’s What You Need to Do NOW

 A truck accident can leave you shaken, hurt, and unsure of what to do next. Here’s how to protect yourself—physically, legally, and financially:

1. Call 911 – You need emergency help on the scene. A police report will also be key in proving what happened.
2. Get Medical Attention – Even if you “feel fine,” injuries like whiplash and internal bleeding can show up hours or even days later.
3. Document Everything – Take pictures of the accident, damage to your car, and any visible injuries. Get names and contact info from witnesses.
4. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters Yet – They’ll try to settle fast—for way less than you deserve. Talk to a lawyer before you sign anything.
5. Call a Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer – A lawyer can handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.

Why a Police Report is Your Best Weapon in a Truck Accident Case

Insurance companies love to twist the truth. According to the National Safety Council, large truck crashes cause thousands of injuries and fatalities each year. A police report helps shut them down by including:

• Exact time and location of the crash – This can prove dangerous road conditions or weather played a role.
• Witness Statements – These back up your story and counter any false claims from the truck driver.
• Preliminary Fault Assessment – If the trucker was cited for speeding, improper loading, or a mechanical violation, it strengthens your case.

Get a copy of the report ASAP. It’s one of the most important pieces of evidence in your big rig accident lawsuit.

How to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in New York

Filing a lawsuit may sound overwhelming, but it’s the best way to hold trucking companies accountable and get the money you need. Here’s how it works:

Investigate the Crash. Your lawyer will dig into trucking logs, maintenance records, and driver history to find out exactly what went wrong.

Identify Who’s Responsible. It’s not always just the driver. The trucking company, maintenance crew, or even a parts manufacturer could be liable.

File a Claim. Your attorney will submit an official complaint in court, laying out the details of your case.

Negotiate a Settlement or Go to Trial. Most cases settle, but if they won’t offer what you deserve, your lawyer will fight for you in court.

New York law gives you three years to file a personal injury lawsuit—but don’t wait. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case.

How Much is Your Case Worth? It Depends on These Factors

Every case is different, but here’s what determines how much truck crash injury compensation you might get:

• Severity of Your Injuries – More serious injuries = higher payouts. Spinal injuries, brain trauma, and amputations often lead to larger settlements.
• Medical Bills – Your current and future medical costs, including surgeries, therapy, and rehab, factor into your claim.
• Lost Wages & Future Income – If you can’t work due to your injuries, you deserve compensation for lost earnings.
• Pain and Suffering – Emotional distress, chronic pain, and PTSD are real damages that courts recognize.
• Negligence & Recklessness – If the trucking company knowingly ignored safety regulations, you may be entitled to even more compensation.

A good NYC commercial vehicle crash attorney fights to get you every dollar you deserve.

Can You Punish Negligent Trucking Companies? Understanding Punitive Damages

Sometimes, trucking companies don’t just mess up—they knowingly break the rules. When that happens, you may be eligible for punitive damages, which are meant to punish reckless behavior. You could qualify if:

• The company ignored repeated safety violations
• The driver was drunk or under the influence
• They falsified maintenance logs to cover up negligence

Punitive damages send a message: Cutting corners on safety isn’t just wrong—it’s expensive.

Why Horn Wright, LLP is the Law Firm You Need

 At Horn Wright, LLP, we don’t just handle truck accident cases—we fight for you. We’ve been ranked one of the best law firms in America, proving our commitment to excellence.  Our team goes after trucking companies and insurance adjusters aggressively, making sure they don’t take advantage of you.

If you’ve been injured in a runaway truck accident, don’t wait. Call a New York trucking accident lawyer today and let’s get you the justice—and compensation—you deserve.