Truck Crashes Into NY Home: Driver Asleep

A dramatic early morning accident occurred in Oakfield, New York; when a tractor-trailer crashed into a residence after the driver fell asleep at the wheel. The incident took place around 1:30 AM on Tuesday, as reported by the New York State Police.

At first, the sequence of events began with the 2012 Western Star tractor-trailer veering off its westbound path and striking a parked vehicle. The momentum then carried the truck into a nearby home of a family of four. Fortunately, none of the residents sustained injuries, as they were awake and able to avoid harm.

However, the driver, a 61-year-old man from North Tonawanda, was taken to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Afterward, State Police have confirmed that fatigue was the primary cause of the accident, and the driver has been issued tickets for the incident.

Even so, this crash highlights a concerning trend noted by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. In 2017 alone, “fatigue or drowsy driving” was a factor in 2,337 police-reported personal injury and fatal crashes across New York State. 

All in all, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with drowsy driving. Authorities continue to investigate the crash, aiming to gather more details and prevent future occurrences. As the investigation unfolds, it emphasizes the critical need for drivers to ensure they are well-rested before getting behind the wheel, especially when operating large commercial vehicles.

Legal Differences in Crashes Involving Regular Drivers vs. Commercial Trucks

Often, accidents involving regular passenger vehicles and commercial trucks or trailers differ significantly in legal terms due to the complexity, severity, and regulations surrounding commercial transportation. 

Should you have more questions, ensure to seek legal counseling from a personal injury attorney. For instance, in Syracuse, N.Y., Stanley Law can help you with a personalized assessment and guidance that best fits your needs.

The key differences lie in:

Firstly, commercial truck drivers and their employers are subject to stringent federal and state regulations that do not apply to regular drivers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates specific rules on hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and driver qualifications. In the event of a crash, these regulations are scrutinized to determine if any violations occurred; such as exceeding allowed driving hours or inadequate vehicle maintenance.

Typically, the size and weight disparity between passenger vehicles and commercial trucks result in more severe damages and injuries; especially when a truck is involved in an accident. This increased potential for catastrophic outcomes means that legal claims often involve higher stakes. This might include substantial medical expenses, property damage, and potential wrongful death claims. The complexity of these cases often requires extensive investigation and expert testimony to accurately assess fault and damages.

Furthermore, liability in truck accidents can extend beyond the driver. Commercial trucking companies, maintenance contractors, cargo loaders, and even manufacturers of truck parts can be held accountable. This multiplicity of potentially liable parties necessitates a comprehensive legal approach to ensure all responsible entities are identified and held accountable.

Insurance requirements also differ. Commercial trucks typically carry higher liability coverage due to the increased risk they pose, which can complicate settlement negotiations. Victims of truck accidents often face aggressive defense strategies from insurers aiming to minimize payouts.

In conclusion, while accidents involving regular drivers and commercial trucks share some commonalities, the legal complexities and stakes are considerably higher in truck accidents. Engaging an experienced attorney is crucial to navigate these intricacies and secure fair compensation for victims.

Contact information: 

Stanley Law 

Syracuse

215 Burnet Ave.

Syracuse, NY 13203

800-608-3333