In just the past two days, the New York State Thruway (I-87) has seen multiple serious accidents, including a fatal collision in Esopus where a northbound vehicle struck a construction truck positioned for a sign-installation project. Only a day later, another crash occurred on the Thruway, underscoring a troubling pattern: construction zones and work-vehicle-related incidents continue to put New Yorkers at risk.
These back-to-back crashes highlight why highway work zones remain one of the most hazardous areas for drivers—and why victims and families turn to O’Connor & Partners, PLLC. As one of the Hudson Valley’s leading personal injury and wrongful death law firms, we are dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable.
The circumstances surrounding the Esopus crash, specifically the placement of a construction vehicle parked to divert traffic, represent issues our firm has investigated many times before. Questions about vehicle positioning, warning signage, and compliance with State and Federal safety protocols often play a central role in determining responsibility.
The Danger of Non-Compliant Work Zones
Attorney Joe O’Connor notes that many of these tragedies are preventable. When safety rules are ignored, stationary construction trucks become lethal hazards.
“Many of these events can be avoided if construction vehicles strictly abide by all Federal and State regulations concerning warning signage and parking requirements. In many instances, the improperly positioned vehicles become ‘sitting ducks.” — Joe O’Connor
Why Victims Choose O’Connor & Partners After Thruway Accidents
When you hire O’Connor & Partners, you are choosing a firm that understands the specific laws governing the New York State Thruway Authority and private contractors. Here is why we are the trusted choice for I-87 collision cases.
1. Deep Experience with Work Zone & Thruway Collisions
We have decades of experience handling the unique dynamics of highway accidents. Our team is well-versed in cases involving:
- Crashes involving construction or maintenance vehicles.
- Lane-closure failures and inadequate merging zones.
- Signage failures and roadway maintenance negligence.
- Commercial vehicle collisions.
- Wrongful death claims on the Thruway.
2. Ability to Untangle Complex, Multi-Party Liability
Work zone accidents are legally complex because they often involve multiple responsible parties. It is rarely just one driver at fault. We identify liability among:
- Private general contractors.
- Subcontractors responsible for signage or flagging.
- State agencies and oversight organizations.
- Multiple commercial insurance carriers.
Our Investigative Process: We go beyond the police report. We analyze work zone layouts, review safety compliance logs, examine vehicle positioning relative to lane markers, obtain surveillance or dash-cam footage, and secure expert reconstruction reports.
3. Proven Results in Catastrophic Injury Cases
Families affected by these tragedies often face overwhelming financial and emotional pressure. O’Connor & Partners has a strong record of achieving meaningful outcomes—securing the financial resources victims need for long-term care and families need to survive after a wrongful death.
4. Compassionate, Responsive Client Support
The aftermath of a serious Thruway crash is chaotic. We are known for providing direct attorney access, clear communication, and 24/7 support. We handle the legal burden so you can focus on healing.
5. No Fee Unless We Win
We work entirely on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront costs and no hourly billing. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you.
FAQ: Quick Answers on Thruway Accident Rights
What causes many Thruway construction zone accidents?
While every crash is different, common causes involving negligence include:
- Improperly parked construction vehicles (the “sitting duck” scenario).
- Inadequate or confusing warning signs.
- Poor visibility due to lighting or bad lane design.
- Failure to follow MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices), Federal, and State safety guidelines.
Why do victims call O’Connor & Partners?
- Extensive experience with work zone collisions.
- Strong investigative resources to prove liability.
- Proven results in high-stakes cases.
- Compassionate, local support in the Hudson Valley.
- No upfront fees.
What should I do after a Thruway accident?
- Seek medical care immediately.
- Document the scene (take photos of the road, signs, and vehicles) if it is safe.
- Avoid speaking to insurers until you have legal counsel.
- Call O’Connor & Partners to protect your rights.
Conclusion
Two serious New York State Thruway accidents in two days serve as a stark reminder of the dangers present in construction zones. O’Connor & Partners remains a trusted choice for victims because we combine legal expertise, thorough investigative ability, and genuine client-focused representation.
If you have been injured on I-87, do not face the insurance companies alone. Contact us today.