Motorcyclist killed in truck crash in Maspeth, Queens

Motorcyclist from Ozone Park died after collision with semi-trailer on Long Island Expressway in Maspeth, Queens

QUEENS, NEW YORK (June 5, 2024) – A motorcyclist was tragically killed in a tractor-trailer accident on the Long Island Expressway in Maspeth, Queens.

New York authorities said the accident occurred around 8:30 a.m. on Saturday. Under unclear circumstances, a motorcyclist was involved in a collision with a semi-trailer truck.

Paramedics were called to the scene of the accident to help the victim. The motorcyclist suffered serious injuries to his upper body and right thigh.

He was taken to Elmhurst Hospital but later died from his injuries. Police believe the driver of the semi may have ignored lane markings and pulled off to the right before the crash.

The comprehensive investigation is currently still ongoing.

Liability for semi-trailer accidents in Queens

Semi-trucks make up a relatively small share of vehicles on the road. However, they are disproportionately involved in fatal crashes. According to the National Safety Council, “5,837 large trucks were involved in a fatal crash in 2022, up 1.8% from 2021 and up 49% over the past 10 years. The involvement rate per 100 million miles driven by large trucks increased 3% from 2021 and 24% over the past 10 years.” There are several factors that can make semi-trucks particularly dangerous.

• Semi-trailers have large blind spots that can obscure smaller vehicles.
• Semi-trailers can weigh up to 36,000 kg and need long distances to come to a stop.
• Semi-trailer trucks have a large turning circle and are more frequently involved in side impacts.

All truck drivers are required by law to exercise due care to avoid collisions. Truck drivers should only change lanes when it is safe to do so. If a truck driver leaves his lane and collides with another vehicle, it can form the basis for a negligence claim. Victims of truck accidents typically suffer very serious and costly injuries, including:

• Broken bones
• Head injuries
• Cuts
• Organ damage
• Internal injuries

Semi-truck accidents tend to be very complex. The factors that can contribute to a collision can occur hours, days, or weeks beforehand. Unfortunately, however, trucking companies often do everything in their power to deny responsibility for a collision involving their drivers. That’s why it’s so important that the evidence left behind after a collision is properly documented.

Investigation of semi-trailer accidents in Queens

We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, PC extend our deepest condolences to the family of the accident victim in Maspeth, Queens. Anyone with additional information regarding the incident should contact the NYPD. We sincerely hope that steps will be taken to prevent similar tragedies.

Have you or someone close to you been injured in a truck accident in Maspeth, Queens? Our team of personal injury lawyers is ready to answer any questions you may have. It is very important to us that accident victims know their rights and that those rights are protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance of any kind, we are here for you. You can reach us anytime at (516) 908-9792.

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