Bedford Hills, NY — November 12, 2024, Howard Zaibel was killed following a truck accident at approximately 5:15 a.m. along I.H. 684.

According to reports, 54-year-old Howard Zaibel was traveling in a southbound Kia on Interstate Highway 684 the Bedford Center Road and Harris Road overpasses when the accident took place.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, the Kia collided with the rear-end of an International 18-wheeler that had been parked on the shoulder of the interstate. Zaibel suffered reportedly fatal injuries as a result of the collision and was declared deceased at the scene. Additional details pertaining to this incident are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I read about a crash like this, where a car collides with a parked 18-wheeler on the interstate, I’m reminded that these incidents often involve more than just one driver’s error. People may quickly assume that the car’s driver was simply inattentive, but in my experience, such crashes warrant a closer examination of the truck driver’s actions, as well as any other factors that could have contributed to the incident.

Right now, details are limited, but this case raises important questions about why the truck was parked on the shoulder of the highway at all. On most interstates, the shoulder is meant for emergencies, not as a convenient stopping point. Investigators should look into whether the truck driver had a legitimate reason to pull over, such as a mechanical issue or a health emergency, and if so, whether the driver took adequate steps to signal their presence on the shoulder. The truck’s emergency lights and reflective markers are critical to ensuring other drivers can see the vehicle in time to avoid a collision. Investigating these concerns is central to coming to a full understanding of who might share responsibility in cases like this.

It’s also essential to review whether the truck driver’s company provided adequate training on what to do in such situations. Not all drivers are trained to handle emergency situations safely, and a lack of preparation or guidance can lead to dangerous decisions. If the truck was parked on the shoulder without a valid reason, or if proper safety precautions were neglected, the company could bear some responsibility for what occurred.

Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the accident. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain critical evidence, it’s essential to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the accident receive the clarity and closure they deserve.