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De Caro & Kaplen, LLP
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Manhattan Based Truck Accident Lawyers, Representing NYC Residents For Over 4 Decades

Were you or a loved one injured in a truck accident in New York? Find out why NYC residents have been trusting our partners Shana De Caro & Michael Kaplen with their truck accident cases since the 1980s. From serious crashes, to rear-end collisions, illegal passing, reckless driving, illegal parking and more, our Manhattan based firm has a proven track record of winning multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for our truck accident clients. Call us on 212-732-2262 to arrange your free consultation, or visit our offices at 228 E. 45th Street, Suite 1100, Manhattan, New York, NY 10017.
Decades of experience
We've been holding negligent truck drivers and trucking companies in New York to account for over 45 years.
Proven results
Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for our truck accident liability clients.
Trusted by our clients
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Our firm has a 4.9/5 rating on Google business, aggregated from over 150 client reviews.
Office in the heart of NYC
We are based in Manhattan, and serve the entire State of New York including New York City, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island and Queens.

On a cold winter’s day in New York, our client was driving carefully, just trying to get home. But behind her, a fully loaded truck was speeding, ignoring the snow and ice on the roadway and federal safety rules requiring the exercise of extreme caution. That reckless choice ended in disaster. The truck slammed into the back of her car, causing serious and permanent injuries.  The truck driver failed to drive with care. He failed to follow federal highway safety regulations for driving in winter weather conditions. The company failed to enforce safety protocols. And our client paid the price.

This wasn’t an unavoidable weather event. It was a reckless decision, and a life-altering crash.

We are Shana De Caro and Michael Kaplen, senior partners at the Manhattan based personal injury firm De Caro & Kaplen, LLP, advocates for crash victims, and watchdogs of trucking safety. For more than four decades, we have stood up to negligent truck drivers and trucking companies and fought for justice.

This case resulted in a $2 million settlement for our client. But when a settlement can’t be reached, we’re fully prepared to go to trial to make sure our clients receive every penny they are entitled to.

In another case our client was driving down a two-lane road when a truck driver - impatient and driving too close – crossed the double yellow line in an illegal attempt to pass while our client was attempting to make a left turn.  What followed was a violent collision that left our client with catastrophic brain injuries.

We discovered that the driver, accompanied by his girlfriend in the passenger seat, was inexperienced and exercised poor judgment. The trucking company ignored red flags. And basic rules of the road were completely ignored. We located witnesses who were following behind the negligent truck driver and affirmed his reckless conduct. 

This wasn’t just a crash. It was a chain reaction of carelessness and corporate failure; a violation of trust, safety, and the law.

This case went to trial and resulted in an $8.5 million award for our client.

If you’ve been injured by a negligent truck driver, we’re here to protect your rights, and your future.

"Collisions involving large commercial trucks can happen for many reasons – fatigued driving, overloaded trailers, failure to follow safety protocols, or poor vehicle upkeep. Commercial truck drivers and trucking companies have a heightened responsibility to operate their vehicles with caution. In these cases, not only the driver, but the trucking company share responsibility. Those harmed by truck crashes can seek damages through legal action for violations of federal safety laws, and outright negligence which can cause catastrophic injuries and death. We work aggressively to uncover the root cause of the crash and fight for the compensation you are entitled to."
Shana De Caro
Shana De Caro, senior partner and personal injury attorney at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Ready to arrange your free consultation?

Contact our attorneys on (212) 732-2262 to discuss your truck accident case, or fill in our contact form here.

Our Partners Have Over 45 Years of Experience in Vehicle Accident Law

Shana De Caro & Michael V. Kaplen

When you retain De Caro & Kaplen for your truck accident case, you’ll be backed by our partners Shana De Caro and Michael Kaplen, who each have over 45 years of experience in vehicle accident law and a history of winning multimillion-dollar settlements for our clients.

And unlike many firms, your case won’t be handed off to a paralegal or junior associate. You’ll work directly with Shana and Michael, who will personally handle your truck accident case from start to finish.

We invite you to visit our bio pages (Shana, Michael) for more information on our credentials, or follow the links below.

  • Shana and Michael are both active members of the Interstate Trucking Accident Section of the American Association for Justice and certified as Advocates by the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys.
  • We are preferred attorneys of The Brain Injury Association of America (link)
  • Michael is a professorial lecturer at law, teaching a course in brain injury law at the George Washington University Law School (link)
  • Shana De Caro served for two terms as the Chairwoman of The Brain Injury Association of America (link)
  • Michael served for two terms as Chair of the New York State Traumatic Brain Injury Services Coordinating Council (link)
  • Both Shana and Michael have been selected as New York Super Lawyers (link, link)

Ready to arrange your free consultation?

Contact our attorneys on (212) 732-2262 to discuss your truck accident case, or fill in our contact form here.

Do I Have a Truck Accident Case? (Types of Truck Accidents)

Any injury caused by the negligence of a truck driver, trucking company, or associated maintenance service could result in a valid truck accident case.

If you or a loved one were injured in a truck accident in New York, please contact us for a free consultation. It’s our job to determine liability, not yours.

But below are some of the most common types of truck accident cases we handle, including examples of verdicts and settlements we have achieved for our clients. Remember, this is not an exhaustive list. If you believe your accident involved negligence, please contact our attorneys. We’re here to help.

Truck Accidents Caused by Distracted or Inattentive Driving

"Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of all motor vehicle accidents, and accidents involving trucks are no different. When truck drivers are texting, using mobile devices, eating, or otherwise distracted, they endanger everyone on the road. Commercial trucking regulations strictly prohibit distractions to ensure safety."
Shana De Caro
Shana De Caro, senior partner and personal injury attorney at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Around 7-8% of all traffic accidents in New York each year involve trucks (source), and distracted driving is one of the leading causes.

Drivers who are texting, using GPS, or even eating are not paying full attention to the road. This increases reaction times, and limits their ability to respond to sudden hazards. And if they are involved in an accident they can be proven to have been negligent.

Our firm achieved a $2M pre-trial settlement for a vehicle accident caused by a distracted truck driver who struck our client’s vehicle, resulting in a concussion and post-concussion syndrome.

Truck Accidents Caused by Improper Maintenance

michael kaplen
"Trucking companies have a responsibility to maintain their vehicles properly. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues caused by neglect significantly endanger public safety."
Michael V. Kaplen
Michael Kaplen, senior partner and personal injury attorney at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Improper maintenance of trucks can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Common issues caused by inadequate inspection or neglected repairs include:

  • brake failures
  • worn-out tires
  • faulty steering
  • defective lights

These preventable mechanical problems are responsible for thousands of truck accidents in New York State every year. Truck owners and trucking companies have a legal responsibility to carry out regular vehicle inspections, ensure safety, and carry out any necessary repairs promptly.

Our firm achieved a $1.9M settlement for a client in NYC who was involved in a motor vehicle accident caused by improper maintenance of brakes in a truck, which resulted in a head-on collision and closed-head brain damage for our client.

If your accident involved a truck which had not been appropriately maintained you have a valid truck accident case.

Truck Accidents Caused by Illegal Parking

"Illegally parked trucks create hazardous conditions on roads, significantly increasing the risk of collisions, especially at night or in poor visibility. De Caro & Kaplen, LLP has achieved multi-million dollar settlements for our clients in cases involving illegally parked trucks in New York."
Shana De Caro
Shana De Caro, senior partner and personal injury attorney at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Illegal parking occurs when trucks stop or park in unauthorized areas, such as highway shoulders or busy city streets, without adequate warning signals or lighting. This creates sudden and unexpected obstacles, particularly at night or in bad weather, and can cause severe accidents and injuries to unsuspecting drivers.

Our firm achieved a $2M settlement for the death of a driver who ran into the rear of a tractor-trailer illegally parked on the shoulder of an interstate highway. Investigation established the tractor trailer was parked on the shoulder for several hours without flairs, cones, or flashing lights to alert motorists to his presence (view case study).

In another case involving illegal parking, we secured a $3M settlement for the family of our client, who lost their life after colliding with the rear of a commercial tractor trailer that was unlawfully parked on the shoulder of a highway without warning lights or safety cones (view case study).

Rear-End Truck Accidents

michael kaplen
"Trucks require greater stopping distances, making rear-end collisions often catastrophic. Drivers must maintain safe following distances and drive attentively to avoid such accidents."
Michael V. Kaplen
Michael Kaplen, senior partner and personal injury attorney at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Rear-end truck accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight of the truck compared to smaller vehicles on the road, and are a frequent cause of accidents due to the additional stopping distances required. US wide data from 2021 revealed that rear-end collisions accounted for roughly 21% of fatal truck crashes, underscoring their severity and the importance of careful, attentive driving.

Truck drivers who tailgate, speed, or drive inattentively increase the likelihood of rear-end accidents.

Our firm achieved a $2.1M settlement for a skull fracture to an infant automobile passenger, which occurred when the vehicle was rear-ended by a truck.

Head-On Truck Collisions

michael kaplen
"Head-on collisions involving trucks frequently result from severe negligence, such as fatigue, impairment, or distraction. These incidents often lead to devastating outcomes."
Michael V. Kaplen
Michael Kaplen, senior partner and personal injury attorney at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Head-on collisions typically occur when a truck crosses into oncoming traffic lanes, often due to driving while tired (fatigue), distractions, or substance impairment/DUI. Head-on collisions are generally the most devastating of all truck accidents and the impact force can result in severe injuries or fatalities, particularly to occupants of smaller vehicles involved.

Our firm achieved a $1M settlement for abdominal injuries sustained by a vehicle operator who was involved in head-on collision with a pickup truck which crossed over the center median line.

And in a case that went all the way to trial, we achieved an $8.5M award against a truck driver for brain injuries sustained by our client, who was driving a car struck by the negligent driver. (view case study).

Truck Accidents Caused by Overloaded Trailers

"Overloading a truck trailer dangerously compromises vehicle stability and handling, increasing the likelihood of severe accidents. Trucking companies must adhere to load limits to protect public safety."
Shana De Caro
Shana De Caro, senior partner and personal injury attorney at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Overloaded trailers create severe risks on the road by destabilizing the vehicle, compromising braking capability, and impairing handling.

Despite clear regulations on maximum permissible weights, negligent trucking companies sometimes overload vehicles to maximize profits, directly endangering others on the road.

Cyclists Struck by Trucks in NYC

michael kaplen
"Cyclists face significant risks from trucks in New York City due to limited driver visibility and improper maneuvering. Over half of NYC cyclist fatalities in recent years involved trucks or buses."
Michael V. Kaplen
Michael Kaplen, senior partner and personal injury attorney at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Cyclists are especially vulnerable to truck collisions, particularly in dense urban areas like New York City. Due to limited visibility from a truck’s cab and improper maneuvering, cyclists are frequently injured or killed in collisions, particularly at intersections or when trucks are turning.

Recent NYC statistics indicate trucks and buses account for more than half of cyclist fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures.

Other Types of Truck Accidents

Additional truck accident scenarios we regularly handle include:

  • Jackknife accidents: The trailer swings out at an angle, often resulting in multi-vehicle collisions.
  • Underride collisions: Occur when smaller vehicles slide beneath the truck, usually resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
  • Tire blowouts: Sudden tire failure leading to loss of truck control.
  • Accidents involving hazardous materials: These incidents can result in widespread injuries or property damage.
  • Fatigued driving crashes: Due to truckers exceeding permitted driving hours without sufficient rest.

If negligence contributed to your truck accident injury, you deserve compensation.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

Ready to arrange your free consultation?

Contact our attorneys on (212) 732-2262 to discuss your truck accident case, or fill in our contact form here.

How De Caro & Kaplen, LLP Prepares Your New York Truck Accident Case

In preparing your case, the truck accident lawyers at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP will:

  • Conduct a thorough examination into why the truck accident occurred.
  • Review police reports regarding the accident.
  • Analyze the driving records of the truck operator and examine maintenance records maintained by the trucking company.
  • Obtain and review any available dash cam recordings.
  • These investigations will allow us to identify the responsible parties. And in many cases, there will be multiple parties responsible for the events that led to your accident (for example, the driver and the trucking company).
  • Strive to understand the full extent of your personal injuries. Not only must the physical injury to your brain or other part of your body be considered; we will also demonstrate how your personal injury has affected your spouse, family, and your ability to earn a living now and in the future.
  • Our goal is to maximize the value of your claim and obtain the largest recovery possible for you.

Read more: After a collision with a truck, how can a truck accident attorney help me?

No Fee Unless We’re Successful

Your access to justice is not dependent upon your financial situation. We don’t charge a fee unless we’re successful. Under this system, you and your family can afford to retain the most qualified truck crash attorney in New York.

Areas We Cover

Our truck accident attorneys can accept cases throughout the entire State of New York, including New York City, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island and Queens. We also serve Nassau and Suffolk, Rockland, Westchester Counties, Albany, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse and surrounding areas.

How Long Do You Have to Start a Truck Accident Claim?

New York law limits the amount of time you have to file a truck accident lawsuit and we would urge you to start the legal process as soon as possible after your accident.

While specifics may vary, generally you have:

  • 3 years to start a personal injury claim against a private individual or trucking company (New York Consolidated Laws, Civil Practice Law and Rules - CVP § 214),
  • 2 years if the crash was fatal (New York Consolidated Laws, Estates, Powers and Trusts Law - EPT § 5-4.1),
  • and 90 days to file a claim against a city, county, or other municipal entity (General Municipal (GMU) CHAPTER 24, ARTICLE 4)

Truck Accident Help & FAQs

We’re Ready To Help You Get The Justice and Compensation You Deserve

Your truck accident case starts with one conversation, directly with Shana De Caro or Michael Kaplen.

Why act today?

Because the clock is ticking. Some claims, like truck accidents involving a city, council, or other municipal entity require a notice within 90 days.

  • No upfront cost – We’re paid only if we win for you.
  • Personal attention – Your case is handled start-to-finish by our partners, not passed to a junior associate.
  • Proven results – Multi-million-dollar recoveries for New Yorkers injured by negligent property owners.
"If you don’t know whether you have a truck accident case, call us. We’ll tell you, free of charge, and we’ll fight tirelessly on your behalf to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve for your injury."
Shana De Caro
Shana De Caro, senior partner and personal injury attorney at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Don’t let evidence disappear or deadlines expire. Reach out now, and let’s start building the strongest claim possible, together.

Truck Accident Verdicts & Settlements

  • $2,000,000 settlement for the death of a driver who ran into the rear of a tractor-trailer illegally parked on the shoulder of an interstate highway.  Investigation established the tractor trailer was parked on the shoulder for several hours without flairs, cones, or flashing lights to alert motorists to his presence. (view case study)
  • $8,500,000 award against a truck driver during trial for brain injuries sustained by our client, who was driving a car struck by the negligent driver. (view case study)
  • $3,000,000 settlement for family of client killed in collision with illegally parked truck. (view case study)
  • $3,500,000 for traumatic brain injury sustained by a college student against university which directed students to drive themselves to an athletic practice in hazardous weather conditions, in violation of safety standards and university rules, resulting in motor vehicle skidding on an icy roadway and colliding with a truck.
  • $2,100,000 settlement for a skull fracture to an infant automobile passenger, which occurred when the vehicle was rear-ended by a truck.
  • $2,000,000 pre-trial settlement for a vehicle accident caused by a negligent driver who struck our client’s vehicle, resulting in a concussion and post-concussion syndrome.
  • $2,000,000 jury verdict for a taxi passenger’s Parkinson’s disease, caused by the collision between a bus and the taxi.
  • $1,900,000 settlement for a motor vehicle accident caused by improper maintenance of brakes in a truck, resulting in a head-on collision and closed-head brain damage for our client.
  • $1,390,000 settlement during trial for spinal injuries caused when an inattentive bus driver rear-ended our client’s car.
  • $1,000,000 for abdominal injuries sustained by vehicle operator involved in head-on collision with a pickup truck which crossed over the center median line.

Call Toll-Free Today at 1 (866) 272-4652

shana de caro & michael v. kaplen
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(212) 732-2262
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Manhattan Office:
De Caro & Kaplen, LLP
228 E. 45th Street, Suite 1100, New York, NY 10017
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Areas We Serve

We are based in Manhattan, and serve the entire State of New York including New York City, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island and Queens. We also serve Nassau and Suffolk, Rockland, Westchester Counties, Albany, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse and surrounding areas.

Practice Areas

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