White Plains Truck Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, you may be facing a long road to recovery—both physically and financially. Medical expenses can quickly add up, insurance companies may try to undervalue your claim, and proving liability can be complex, especially when large trucking corporations are involved. That’s where our experienced White Plains truck accident lawyers step in.
At Marvin A. Cooper, P.C., we understand the challenges truck accident victims face. With over 60 years of legal experience in New York, our firm has successfully recovered millions in compensation for our clients. We are committed to holding negligent truck drivers, trucking companies, and insurance providers accountable for the harm they cause.
Truck accidents are not like regular car accidents. Federal and state regulations, multiple liable parties, and high insurance stakes make these cases much more complicated. With our in-depth legal knowledge, resources, and trial experience, we will aggressively fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Marvin A. Cooper, P.C. for Your Truck Accident Case?
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, choosing the right attorney can make a significant difference in your case outcome. Marvin A. Cooper, P.C. has built a reputation for delivering results, providing personal attention to every client, and holding negligent parties accountable.
Here’s Why Clients Trust Us
Over 60 Years of Experience
For decades, we have been fighting for the rights of truck accident victims throughout New York. Our team understands the complexities of trucking accident claims and knows how to navigate the legal system to get results.
We Secure Maximum Compensation for Clients
We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients by aggressively negotiating with insurance companies and, when necessary, taking cases to court.
No Upfront Costs – You Don’t Pay Unless We Win
We believe everyone deserves justice, which is why we operate on a contingency fee basis. You won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.
We Take on Large Trucking Companies and Their Insurers
Trucking companies and their insurance providers have teams of high-powered lawyers working to reduce their liability and limit your compensation. We level the playing field and fight back aggressively.
Personalized, Compassionate Legal Representation
Unlike larger firms that treat clients as just another case number, we provide individualized attention and work closely with you throughout the process.
Understanding Truck Accidents
What Makes Truck Accidents Different from Car Accidents?
Truck accidents are far more dangerous and complex than regular auto collisions due to the size, weight, and operational risks associated with commercial trucks. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making it nearly impossible to stop quickly in an emergency.
Additionally, trucking companies and drivers must comply with strict federal regulations, and violations of these regulations often contribute to accidents. These differences make it critical to hire an attorney with experience in trucking accident litigation.
Common Types of Truck Accidents We Handle
- Jackknife Accidents – Occur when a truck’s trailer swings outward at a sharp angle, often leading to multi-vehicle crashes.
- Underride Collisions – These occur when a smaller vehicle becomes trapped under the truck’s trailer, often leading to fatal injuries.
- Rear-End Collisions – Due to their massive weight, commercial trucks require much more distance to come to a complete stop. When truck drivers fail to react in time, rear-end accidents can be catastrophic.
- Rollover Accidents – When a truck tips over due to excessive speed, shifting cargo, or abrupt maneuvers.
- Head-On Collisions – These are among the deadliest types of crashes, often resulting from driver fatigue, distracted driving, or impaired driving.
- Lost Load Accidents – When improperly secured cargo spills onto the roadway, endangering other drivers.
Who is Liable in a Truck Accident?
Determining who is responsible for a truck accident can be complicated. Unlike car accidents, where liability is typically assigned to one or two drivers, truck accidents often involve multiple liable parties.
Potentially Liable Parties in a Truck Accident
- The Truck Driver – If the driver was negligent due to fatigue, distracted driving, drug or alcohol use, or speeding, they can be held liable.
- The Trucking Company – If the company failed to conduct proper training, ignored safety laws, or pushed drivers to violate hours-of-service rules, they may share responsibility.
- Truck Manufacturers – If the accident was caused by a defective part, such as faulty brakes, defective tires, or mechanical failures, the manufacturer may be held accountable.
- Cargo Loaders – If improperly loaded or unsecured cargo caused the crash, the company responsible for loading the truck could be held liable.
- Government Entities – If poor road conditions, lack of signage, or faulty traffic signals contributed to the accident, a government agency may be liable.
At Marvin A. Cooper, P.C., our White Plains truck accident lawyers thoroughly investigate every case to determine who should be held accountable for your injuries.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Truck Accident?
Truck accident victims are often left with life-altering injuries and significant financial burdens. You may be entitled to substantial compensation, including:
- Medical Bills – Coverage for emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
- Lost Wages – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for lost income.
- Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
- Property Damage – Covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
- Wrongful Death Damages – If a loved one was killed in a truck accident, their family may be eligible for compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and loss of companionship.
Insurance companies may try to undervalue your claim, but we fight to ensure you receive every dollar you are entitled to.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
If you are involved in a truck accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights:
What to Do After a Truck Crash
- Call 911 Immediately – Seek emergency medical attention and report the accident.
- Get Medical Care – Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear.
- Document the Scene – Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries.
- Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters – They may try to minimize your claim or get you to admit fault.
- Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer – The sooner you hire an attorney, the stronger your case will be.
At Marvin A. Cooper, P.C., we handle all communication with insurance companies so you can focus on healing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents
How much is my truck accident case worth?
The value of a truck accident case depends on several factors, including the severity of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and whether the accident resulted in permanent disability or wrongful death. Every case is unique, and an experienced truck accident attorney will evaluate your situation, gather evidence, and determine the full extent of damages you may be entitled to. At Marvin A. Cooper, P.C., we work closely with medical professionals and financial experts to calculate the total impact of your injuries and pursue the maximum compensation on your behalf.
How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit?
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a truck accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. If the crash resulted in a fatality, a wrongful death claim must typically be filed within two years. However, there are exceptions to these deadlines, such as cases involving government entities or minors. It is crucial to speak with a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within the required timeframe. Delaying legal action can result in lost evidence and make it more difficult to secure fair compensation.
Who can be held responsible for a truck accident?
Liability in a truck accident can extend beyond just the truck driver. Depending on the circumstances, the trucking company, the truck’s owner, cargo loading companies, truck manufacturers, or even government entities responsible for road maintenance could be liable. If a driver was fatigued, distracted, or under the influence, they may be held accountable. If the trucking company failed to maintain the vehicle, ignored federal regulations, or pressured the driver to work beyond legal limits, they could be responsible as well. At Marvin A. Cooper, P.C., we conduct in-depth investigations to determine all liable parties and build a strong case on your behalf.
What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
After a truck accident, your priority should be your safety and health. Call 911 to report the crash and request emergency medical assistance if needed. If you are physically able, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses and obtain the truck driver’s insurance and employer details. Do not admit fault or provide a recorded statement to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you don’t feel injured, as some injuries take time to appear. Lastly, contact our White Plains truck accident lawyers before speaking to any insurance representatives to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.
What if the truck driver was working at the time of the accident?
If the truck driver was on the job when the accident occurred, their employer may also be held liable under the legal principle of vicarious liability. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are properly trained, adhere to federal safety regulations, and operate their vehicles responsibly. If the company knowingly hired an unqualified or reckless driver, failed to maintain the truck, or encouraged the driver to exceed legal driving hours, they can be held accountable. Our legal team investigates whether company policies or negligence played a role in the accident and works to hold the responsible parties liable.
Contact Marvin A. Cooper, P.C. Today
Truck accident cases involve aggressive trucking companies, complex laws, and high insurance stakes. You need an experienced attorney who knows how to fight for you.
At Marvin A. Cooper, P.C., we are dedicated to helping truck accident victims get the justice and compensation they deserve. Let our White Plains truck accident lawyers handle the legal battle while you focus on your recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
