Insurance Headache After Truck Accident in Queens

WOODSIDE, Queens (WABC) – A rental truck, typically used for moving, caused a massive insurance dilemma after it crashed into over 40 cars in Queens.

Owners are facing steep repair bills amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars, and many require rental vehicles. When they encountered challenges in resolving these issues, Nina Pineda and the 7 On Your Side team stepped in to assist.

Residents described the incident as sounding like a freight train racing down the street. The out-of-control 5-ton, 26-foot rental truck careened down two blocks in Woodside, colliding with 40 vehicles.

Among the cars damaged was Nazeera Khan’s Honda, which was the first to be struck. She mentioned, “The damage is extensive; it affected the bumper, lights, and two doors,” and noted that the car was no longer drivable due to the impact.

Tom Wojtaszczyk, Khan’s neighbor, faced similar devastation as his SUV was completely ruined, and the truck also collided with his other car. His anticipated profits from flipping these vehicles have now put him $30,000 in debt.

In mid-June, Eyewitness News reported on the aftermath of the rental truck disaster, interviewing both Wojtaszczyk and Khan. The truck driver was arrested for reportedly falling asleep at the wheel, and reporter Mike Marza had anticipated the ensuing insurance challenges, stating, “What an insurance headache this is going to be.”

Nearly three weeks post-accident, with no adjusters having visited and no rental cars provided, Khan, a single mother of two, faced considerable difficulties. “I’ve been relying on taxis and friends for rides, and it’s becoming costly,” she expressed. Frustrated, Wojtaszczyk added, “They kept assuring us they’d handle everything, but nothing happened.”

Fortunately, 7 On Your Side contacted the insurance company, and within hours, an adjuster arrived to evaluate the damage. The insurance company apologized and expedited the claims for all car owners. Within just a day, Khan received a rental car and a settlement exceeding $15,000 for her Honda, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the assistance she received.

Wojtaszczyk also benefited, securing nearly $30,000 for his two vehicles, thanking 7 On Your Side for their pivotal role in resolving the situation.

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