Commercial Vehicle Accidents in New York
Being involved in a commercial vehicle accident in New York can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Whether you were struck by a delivery truck, semi-truck, or another business-owned vehicle, the aftermath can be chaotic — from medical emergencies to legal confusion. Being involved in a commercial vehicle accident in New York can be a frightening and overwhelming experience.
Whether you were struck by a delivery truck, semi-truck, or another business-owned vehicle, the aftermath can be chaotic — from medical emergencies to legal confusion. In such situations, having a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can make all the difference. With experience handling commercial vehicle accident claims, he helps victims navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Contact IraPintel:
📍 Address: 147 East 82nd Street, Suite 6B, New York, NY 10028
📞 Phone: (917) 941-4094
✉️ Email: Ira@irapintel.com
🔗 Website: irapintel.com
Knowing exactly what steps to take after such an accident not only helps protect your health but also strengthens any potential personal injury claim. If you or someone you love has been injured in a commercial vehicle accident, acting quickly and wisely is critical.

Step 1: Prioritize Your Health and Safety
Immediately after the accident, your first concern should be safety. If possible, move to a safe area away from traffic. Check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to seek medical attention— some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.
Pro Tip: Medical records can serve as strong evidence if you pursue a personal injury claim later.
Step 2: Call 911 and Report the Accident
Under New York law, any accident involving injuries or significant property damage must be reported to the police. When officers arrive, give an accurate and honest account of the events without speculating or assigning blame. Their report will be crucial in establishing facts for your case.
Make sure you get the accident report number and follow up to obtain a copy of the police report later.
Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can)
If your injuries allow, collect as much evidence at the accident scene as possible:
- Photos of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and injuries
- License plate numbers and company name/logos on the commercial vehicle
- Contact details of witnesses
- Insurance and contact information from the commercial vehicle driver
Commercial vehicle accident claims often involve multiple parties, such as the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or even a third-party contractor. The more information you have, the better positioned you’ll be.
Step 4: Avoid Talking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Guidance
Soon after the accident, you may receive calls from insurance adjusters representing the commercial company or their driver. Their goal is often to minimize your claim or offer a low settlement.
Do not provide a recorded statement or accept any offers without speaking to a qualified personal injury attorney in New York. Remember: insurance companies are businesses, not your allies.
Step 5: Consult a New York Personal Injury Lawyer with Commercial Accident Experience
Navigating a commercial vehicle accident claim in New York is complex. These accidents involve federal trucking regulations, state liability laws, and often corporate legal teams.
That’s why having an experienced attorney by your side is essential. A skilled lawyer can:
- Investigate the cause of the accident (driver fatigue, poor maintenance, etc.)
- Identify all liable parties
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies
- Help you receive the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
Why Acting Fast Matters
New York has a limited window for filing personal injury claims — generally, three years from the date of the accident. But in commercial vehicle cases, evidence like vehicle logs, dashcam footage, and maintenance records can disappear quickly.
By taking legal action early, you increase your chances of recovering full compensation and holding all responsible parties accountable.
Need Legal Support?
Need Legal Support?
If you’ve been injured in a commercial vehicle accident in New York, don’t wait. Take smart, strategic steps to protect your rights. And remember, technology can now play a vital role in investigating and resolving your case effectively. For reliable legal guidance, consider reaching out to Ira Pintel, an experienced personal injury attorney who understands the complexities of commercial vehicle accidents.
Contact Ira Pintel:
📍 Address: 147 East 82nd Street, Suite 6B, New York, NY 10028
📞 Phone: (917) 941-4094
✉️ Email: Ira@irapintel.com
🔗 Website: irapintel.com
FAQs
What is considered a commercial vehicle in New York?
A commercial vehicle includes trucks, vans, buses, or any motor vehicle used for business purposes, such as deliveries, freight transport, or company errands.
Who can be held liable for a commercial vehicle accident?
Liability may extend to the driver, trucking company, vehicle maintenance provider, or even the manufacturer — depending on the cause of the accident.
What damages can I recover in a commercial vehicle accident lawsuit?
Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, emotional distress, property damage, and pain and suffering.
How long do I have to file a claim after a commercial vehicle accident in NY?
The statute of limitations in New York is generally three years, but it’s best to act sooner due to the complexity of commercial cases.
Can AI really help in proving my commercial vehicle accident claim?
Yes. AI can analyze driving behavior, reconstruct crash events, and detect fault patterns faster and more accurately than manual methods — often helping lawyers secure stronger settlements.