When an individual has been hit by a garbage truck in New York City, the physical, financial, and emotional repercussions of such an accident can be devastating, leaving victims with life-altering injuries or worse. This is because garbage trucks are extremely large and heavy, and can cause extensive damage to vehicles. If the truck strikes a pedestrian, scooter or bicyclist, the impact can be many times more severe.
Consult with an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Following an accident, it is important to seek immediate legal help from an experienced personal injury lawyer, who has successfully handled Garbage Truck accident cases. A qualified attorney will help you file a personal injury claim, examine the unique details of your case, and fight to recover compensation for your losses. Keep reading to learn more about how to recover compensation after a garbage truck accident in New York.
Proving Liability in a Garbage Truck Accident
Personal injury laws are complex. In New York, victims of garbage truck accidents must prove negligence on behalf of the driver or employer before receiving compensation for damages. This is known as the burden of proof, meaning the claimant must prove that their claims are more likely than not true.
A qualified personal injury attorney can help you navigate the intricacies of court while fighting to recover the maximum compensation you deserve. In addition to providing strong representation, our experienced lawyers:
- Provide legal counsel and guidance on the best course of action
- Investigate the garbage truck accident to determine fault and liability and insurance coverage
- Collect evidence from witnesses, police reports, and other sources
- Help you to notify your insurance company
- Assist you with your property damage claim
- File disability claims if you cannot return to work
- Negotiate settlements with insurance companies or defendants in court
- Fight to recover compensation for damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs
Your lawyer may also find it necessary to hire certain experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, who may be able to provide evidence indicating fault on behalf of the garbage truck driver, further fortifying your claim in court.
Steps to Take After a Garbage Truck Accident
If you or a loved one was injured in a garbage truck accident in New York City, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Taking the right steps after an accident can increase your odds of obtaining a favorable outcome and receiving the maximum compensation possible in court.
Victims should consider taking the following steps after sustaining injuries in an NYC garbage truck accident:
1. Call 911 for Emergency Ambulance and Police
It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after being involved in an accident with a garbage truck, even if you don't believe that your injuries are life threatening. You may tell the emergency responders what happened, but DO NOT ADMIT FAULT.
2. Gather Evidence
If your physical condition permits, take photos of the garbage truck including license plate and company markings, as well as a photo of the truck driver. Record contact information of any witnesses. If no police report is made, take a photo of the truck drivers’ license, registration and insurance card.
3. Obtain Follow Up Medical Care for Your Injuries
Not only can this offer you peace of mind by ruling out serious but less obvious injuries, such as internal bleeding, spinal injuries and traumatic brain injuries, but it can also provide the necessary documentation to support your claim in court. Your medical providers will maintain an official and comprehensive record of injuries you sustained in the accident.
4. Consult With a Trusted Personal Injury Attorney
A skilled personal injury lawyer can use their in-depth knowledge of New York laws to guide you through each step of your case, seek justice on your behalf, and fight for the compensation you deserve. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified attorney before taking legal action after a garbage truck accident, as it can mean the difference between
achieving fair compensation and walking away with less than you deserve. It is especially important to hire a law firm that has successfully handled your type of case before.
Contact an Award-Winning Personal Injury Attorney in NYC
As challenging as it can be to navigate the complexities of court after a garbage truck accident, it’s imperative to remain calm and take the necessary steps to get back on track financially and physically. Seeking representation from a trusted personal injury attorney can help maximize your chance of success in court, as they can help fight to hold negligent parties responsible for their actions and ensure that you’re compensated fairly for all damages incurred in the accident.
If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to suffer in silence. With over 50 years of combined experience, and many millions of dollars in recoveries, our personal injury attorneys are accomplished legal advocates who will work day and night to recover what’s rightfully yours. Reach out to our firm to learn how we can restore your peace of mind and help you take the first step toward recovery.
If you were injured in NYC, you deserve strong representation from a skilled personal injury lawyer. Call (718) 690-3132 to schedule a consultation.