All large metro areas have various kinds of trucks doing work on and near the roads every day. Unfortunately, a lot of people are also harmed by these vehicles when drivers take their eyes off of the road or make other careless mistakes. Getting in touch with a civil attorney may be the best way to get help and financial assistance after an incident.
A pedestrian was seriously hurt by a sanitation truck in Huntington Township on Long Island.
Huntington man hit by a garbage truck at night
The accident happened at about 7:30pm on a Friday night. The 1993 model truck was going southbound on New York Ave and West 11th Street when it collided with a man who was on foot. Suffolk County Police still do not know exactly what the driver was doing in the moments before the impact.
The 61 year old male victim from Huntington Station needed to be taken by airlift to Stony Brook University Hospital with very serious injuries, but he was expected to live. The truck driver was not injured in the accident. Suffolk County has assigned their second squad to do a full investigation after the initial police response. They are asking for witnesses or anyone who may know more about the accident to come forward with additional information. There was no comment from local police about whether the driver of the sanitation vehicle would be given any traffic citations or criminal charges based on his actions.
Lawsuits against sanitation trucks
Sanitation trucks are a consistent source of injuries and accidents in the New York area. They are especially prone to collisions with bicyclists and pedestrians, because it is often difficult for drivers to see them.
The sanitation company that owns the truck will end up being responsible for paying out costs related to the lawsuit. This is because businesses are responsible for torts committed by their employees while they are at work, which means that they often will pay out settlement agreements or jury verdicts related to a mistake made by an employee. Some transportation companies and others who own large fleets of vehicles even purchase special insurance to prepare for this possibility.
The structure of the lawsuit will not change much whether an individual driver or business ends up in civil court. Truck accidents allow a plaintiff to sue for costs such as medical treatment, lost wages and missed time from work, and emotional trauma. Even if these costs are extensive, a settlement agreement or victory after a trial will help victims attempt to get their lives back to normal.
Speak with a local lawyer after being hurt by a truck driver
There are legal professionals on Long Island and throughout the New York metro area that can help you file a case against a negligent trucker. Use the listings on USAttorneys.com to locate an attorney in your area.