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A jackknifed tractor-trailer blocking two lanes of I-87 near the Westchester County–New York City line highlights how quickly a commercial truck incident can create dangerous conditions for everyone on the road.
For motorists traveling between Westchester County and New York City, I-87 is a critical transportation corridor used every day by passenger vehicles, buses and large commercial trucks. When a tractor-trailer loses control, the size and weight of the vehicle can turn an ordinary traffic incident into a potentially devastating crash.
For anyone injured in a collision involving a commercial vehicle, speaking with an experienced car accident lawyer in Westchester County or NYC can be an important step toward understanding who may be responsible and what compensation may be available.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
A jackknife accident occurs when a tractor and its trailer move out of alignment, causing the trailer to swing toward the cab. The truck can form an angle resembling a folding pocketknife and potentially sweep across multiple traffic lanes.
On a heavily traveled highway such as I-87, this can leave nearby drivers with little time or space to react.
Jackknifing may be associated with numerous factors, including sudden braking, slippery pavement, excessive speed for conditions, driver error, improperly loaded cargo, mechanical problems or loss of traction.
Determining exactly why a truck jackknifed requires an investigation of the individual accident.
I-87 Connects Busy Westchester and NYC Traffic
The location of this incident is particularly significant because the Westchester-New York City corridor carries substantial commuter and commercial traffic.
Drivers traveling through Yonkers and toward the Bronx may encounter tractor-trailers alongside commuters heading to and from White Plains, New York City and communities throughout Westchester County.
Other heavily traveled roads in the region—including I-287, I-684, the Saw Mill River Parkway, Bronx River Parkway and Hutchinson River Parkway—present their own traffic challenges.
Drivers should always leave adequate following distance around trucks and avoid remaining unnecessarily in a truck driver’s blind spots.
Why Tractor-Trailer Accidents Can Be So Serious
A fully loaded commercial truck is dramatically larger and heavier than the typical passenger vehicle. That difference can contribute to severe injuries when a collision occurs.
Victims may suffer spinal injuries, fractures, traumatic injuries requiring surgery, permanent impairment and other life-changing consequences.
Truck accidents may also involve several vehicles. A jackknifed trailer can block multiple lanes, causing secondary crashes as approaching motorists brake, swerve or collide with stopped traffic.
The aftermath can become legally complicated because determining liability isn’t always as simple as identifying the person behind the wheel.
Who Could Be Responsible for a New York Truck Accident?
Depending on the circumstances, responsibility could potentially extend beyond the commercial driver.
An investigation may examine the driver’s conduct, trucking company practices, vehicle ownership, maintenance records, cargo loading and other circumstances surrounding the collision.
Evidence can be especially important in commercial trucking cases. Attorneys may seek photographs and video, police reports, witness accounts, vehicle inspection and maintenance information, driver records and other relevant documentation.
The sooner evidence is identified and preserved, the stronger the factual foundation of an injury claim may be.
What Should You Do After a Truck Accident?
Anyone involved in a serious truck or car accident should prioritize safety and medical care. Injuries are not always immediately apparent following the shock of a collision.
When it can be done safely, document the accident scene, vehicle damage and surrounding roadway conditions. Obtain witness information and preserve records relating to medical treatment, lost income and other expenses.
You should also be cautious when dealing with insurance companies. Statements made shortly after an accident may later become important to a claim.
Before accepting a settlement for a serious injury, consider speaking with a New York personal injury attorney who understands both accident litigation and courtroom practice.
Proven Results in Motor Vehicle and Truck Accident Cases
Attorney Norman Gershon brings 35 years of personal injury trial experience to clients throughout the New York City metropolitan area and surrounding counties. The firm reports recovering tens of millions of dollars through personal injury verdicts and settlements.
His reported results include several significant motor vehicle and commercial transportation cases:
$16.5 Million Verdict — Betancourt v. NYCTA
An automobile passenger was injured in a collision with a bus, suffering serious spinal fractures and requiring fusion surgery.
$5.445 Million Verdict — Mungo v. Traviseo et al.
A motor vehicle accident involving cervical and lumbar fusion injuries.
$3.75 Million Verdict — Hernandez-Santos v. Egg Depot Inc. et al.
A motor vehicle accident resulting in a lumbar spine injury requiring fusion.
$3 Million Verdict — Carmona v. Esther Transportation Inc. et al.
A motor vehicle accident involving a lumbar spine injury and fusion.
$2.5 Million Verdict — Yurkovic v. Cepin
A Westchester Supreme Court motor vehicle intersection case involving cervical disc herniations and fusion.
The firm’s supplied case history also includes truck-accident results, including verdicts of $1.3 million and $1.2 million in Morreno and Iglesia v. Alany, involving lumbar fusions, and a $1.1 million settlement in Morales v. Verbena et al., involving a truck accident and cervical fusion.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case depends on its individual facts and circumstances.
The Trial Lawyer Other Attorneys Call for Tough Cases
Truck accident claims can become aggressively contested, particularly when serious injuries and substantial damages are involved.
That is where courtroom experience matters.
Norman Gershon is known throughout the tri-state area as a go-to trial lawyer who handles difficult personal injury cases. His supplied professional background describes decades of experience fighting for injured clients and pursuing compensation through settlements and verdicts.
Former clients have also praised his preparation, communication and courtroom abilities. One described him as “thorough, well prepared,” while another said his knowledge and attention to detail went beyond what was expected.
Norman Gershon is the attorney other lawyers call to try their toughest cases.
Looking for a Car Accident Lawyer in Westchester County or NYC?
Whether an accident happens on I-87 in Yonkers, I-287 near White Plains, I-684 in Westchester County, or on a busy roadway in the Bronx, Manhattan or Queens, serious crashes can leave victims facing medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation and uncertainty about their future.
The Law Offices of Norman Gershon represents people injured in car, truck and other motor vehicle accidents throughout Westchester County and the New York City metropolitan area.
If you’ve suffered a serious injury because of another party’s negligence, experienced legal representation can help investigate what happened, identify potentially responsible parties and pursue the compensation available under New York law.
Law Offices of Norman Gershon
35 Years of Trial Experience
Tens of Millions Recovered in Verdicts & Settlements
Serving White Plains, Yonkers, Westchester County, the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens & NYC
When the case is tough, put a proven trial lawyer in your corner.
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