A tragic accident occurred early Monday morning on Interstate 90 westbound in Buffalo, claiming the life of a pedestrian. According to New York State Police, the incident took place near Exit 57 (Route 75) around 4:30 a.m. when an unidentified male was struck by a tractor trailer.
The victim, believed to be from outside Western New York, had parked his vehicle at a nearby hotel before the fatal encounter. State Police Trooper James O'Callaghan reported that investigators were able to obtain dashcam footage from the tractor trailer, which allegedly showed the pedestrian walking directly into the path of the oncoming vehicle. While the investigation continues, officials suspect this may have been an intentional act, noting that visibility conditions were clear at the time of the incident. You can read more about this developing story at the original news source.
Common Causes of Pedestrian-Vehicle Accidents
While this particular incident appears to have unique circumstances, pedestrian accidents involving large commercial vehicles can occur for various reasons:
- Poor visibility conditions - Dense fog, heavy rain, snow, or darkness can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians
- Distracted driving - Truck drivers using cell phones, GPS devices, or other distractions while operating their vehicles
- Driver fatigue - Commercial drivers operating beyond safe hours or without adequate rest
- Speeding or reckless driving - Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents
- Inadequate lighting - Poorly lit highways, construction zones, or parking areas near roadways
- Mechanical failures - Brake failures, steering problems, or other truck maintenance issues
- Impaired driving - Drivers operating under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications
- Inadequate training - Insufficient commercial driver training or failure to follow safety protocols
When negligence on the part of truck drivers, trucking companies, or other parties contributes to these tragic accidents, victims and their families may be entitled to seek legal compensation for their devastating losses.
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims in Buffalo, NY
Pedestrian accidents involving commercial vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death due to the massive size and weight difference between trucks and pedestrians. In cases where negligence contributes to these tragedies, New York law provides avenues for families to seek justice and financial compensation through wrongful death claims.
Potential liable parties in pedestrian-truck accidents may include the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle maintenance companies, cargo loading companies, or even government entities responsible for road design and maintenance. Compensation in these cases can include medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, lost wages and future earning capacity, pain and suffering endured before death, and loss of companionship for surviving family members.
Damages and Compensation
In pedestrian accident cases, compensation typically falls into several categories designed to address both immediate and long-term impacts on victims and their families.
Economic damages cover quantifiable financial losses such as medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity. These damages also include funeral and burial expenses in wrongful death cases.
Non-economic damages address the more intangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, and diminished quality of life. While these damages are harder to calculate, they often represent the most significant portion of a settlement.
Future losses account for ongoing medical care, long-term disability accommodations, and the lifetime earning potential lost due to the accident. Expert testimony and actuarial calculations help determine these projections.
Compensation serves multiple purposes: restoring victims and families financially, holding negligent parties accountable for their actions, and deterring similar incidents in the future. The calculation requires thorough documentation of all losses, expert testimony, and experienced legal representation to ensure fair compensation.
For more information about our track record of success, visit our results page to see how we've helped other families navigate these difficult situations. If you need immediate assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us at info@porterlawteam.com or through our contact form.
Have you or a loved one been injured in a pedestrian accident?
CONTACT USOur Recent Case Results
Settlement
Jury Verdict
Settlement
Settlement
Why Choose Porter Law Group?
The attorneys at Porter Law Group bring decades of experience representing families whose lives have been forever changed by tragic accidents. We understand the devastating impact these incidents have on victims and their loved ones, and we're committed to fighting for the justice and compensation they deserve.
Our state-wide firm combines extensive legal expertise with a personal, hometown approach to client service. We have the resources and experience necessary to take on large trucking companies and their insurance carriers who often try to minimize or deny legitimate claims. Our seasoned trial lawyers aren't afraid to take cases to court when insurance companies refuse to offer fair settlements.
We believe that every family deserves access to quality legal representation, which is why we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis - meaning you pay no upfront costs and only pay attorney fees if we secure compensation for your case. Our compassionate team will guide you through every step of the legal process while you focus on healing and moving forward.
Contact Porter Law Group Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident or any serious injury incident in New York State, don't wait to seek legal guidance. Time limits apply to personal injury and wrongful death claims, and early action can be crucial for preserving evidence and protecting your rights.
Contact Porter Law Group today at 833-PORTER9 or email us at info@porterlawteam.com for a free, no-obligation consultation. We serve clients throughout New York State and are ready to provide the experienced, aggressive representation your case deserves. Let our knowledge and dedication work for you during this difficult time.
