Understanding Truck Accidents in Pennsylvania
Commercial truck accidents are among the most devastating collisions on Pennsylvania's highways and interstates. When a fully-loaded semi-truck weighing up to 80,000 pounds collides with a passenger vehicle, the consequences are often catastrophic, resulting in severe injuries, permanent disabilities, or even death.
At PA Attorney Source, our experienced truck accident attorneys understand the complex nature of these cases and the profound impact they have on victims and their families. With over 25 years of experience representing injured clients throughout Pennsylvania, we have the knowledge, resources, and dedication to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Our legal team has a proven track record of successfully handling complex truck accident cases against large trucking companies and their insurance providers. We fight tirelessly for our clients' rights while providing compassionate support during the most challenging times in their lives.
Legal Expertise
Specialized knowledge in federal and state trucking regulations and accident litigation
Maximum Compensation
Committed to securing full and fair compensation for all damages you've suffered
Personalized Attention
Dedicated legal team providing responsive communication throughout your case
Pennsylvania Truck Accident Statistics
7,522
tractor-trailer collisions occurred in Pennsylvania in 2022, according to PennDOT data.
164
fatalities resulted from heavy truck accidents in Pennsylvania in 2022.
8,223
heavy truck accidents were reported in Pennsylvania in 2022, highlighting the significant danger these vehicles pose.
5%
of Pennsylvania traffic accidents that cause injuries involve heavy trucks, despite commercial vehicles making up a much smaller percentage of total vehicles on the road.
2,860
In a recent year, people were injured in collisions with heavy trucks in Pennsylvania.
These statistics demonstrate the serious nature of truck accidents in Pennsylvania and why specialized legal representation is crucial for victims seeking justice and compensation.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Pennsylvania
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers often face pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines, leading them to drive beyond federal hours-of-service limits. Fatigue significantly impairs reaction time, decision-making abilities, and awareness, making it a leading cause of serious truck accidents.
Distracted Driving
Using mobile devices, adjusting GPS systems, eating, or other distractions can take a truck driver's attention off the road. Given a semi-truck's size and weight, even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to catastrophic consequences.
Equipment Failures
Mechanical issues such as tire blowouts, brake failures, steering system malfunctions, and power train failures are common causes of truck accidents in Pennsylvania. Regular maintenance and inspection are required by law but are sometimes neglected.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
Unbalanced or unsecured cargo can shift during transport, causing a truck to jackknife, rollover, or lose control. Loading companies and drivers are responsible for ensuring cargo is properly secured according to federal regulations.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for conditions is particularly dangerous for commercial trucks due to their increased stopping distances and reduced maneuverability. Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating and improper lane changes significantly increase accident risks.
Driver Impairment
Alcohol, drugs (both illegal and prescription), and over-the-counter medications can impair a truck driver's ability to safely operate their vehicle. Commercial drivers are held to higher standards with a legal BAC limit of 0.04%, half that of regular drivers.
Inadequate Training
Some trucking companies fail to properly train their drivers in safety protocols, vehicle operation, and handling emergency situations, leading to preventable accidents when drivers encounter challenging conditions.
Poor Weather Conditions
Pennsylvania's diverse weather, from heavy snow and ice in winter to summer thunderstorms, creates hazardous driving conditions. Commercial truck drivers must adjust their driving accordingly or pull over when conditions become unsafe.
Legal Options After a Pennsylvania Truck Accident
Potential Liable Parties
Truck accident cases typically involve multiple potentially liable parties, including:
Truck Driver
May be held responsible for negligent driving behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving, or hours-of-service violations.
Trucking Company
Often liable through vicarious liability for their employees' actions or directly responsible for negligent hiring, inadequate training, or encouraging unsafe practices.
Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers
May be liable under product liability laws if defective components contributed to the accident.
Maintenance Providers
Companies responsible for truck maintenance can be held liable if improper maintenance contributed to the crash.
Cargo Loading Companies
Third-party companies that improperly load or secure cargo may be responsible for accidents caused by shifting loads.
Government Entities
May be liable if poor road design or maintenance contributed to the accident.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of truck accidents in Pennsylvania may be entitled to several types of compensation:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and income
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation costs
- Home modification expenses
- In-home care costs
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Physical impairment
- Loss of consortium
- Mental anguish
Punitive Damages
In cases involving particularly reckless or egregious conduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. Unlike many states, Pennsylvania does not cap punitive damages in truck accident cases, though they must be reasonable and proportionate to the harm caused.
Pennsylvania's Modified Comparative Negligence Rule
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar. This means:
- You can recover damages as long as you're less than 51% at fault for the accident.
- Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault and suffered $100,000 in damages, you could recover 80% (or $80,000).
- If you are found to be 51% or more responsible, you cannot recover any compensation from the other parties.
This highlights the importance of having skilled legal representation to minimize any fault attributed to you in a truck accident case.
Pennsylvania Truck Accident Laws & Regulations
Federal Regulations
Commercial trucks operating in Pennsylvania must comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, including:
- Hours-of-Service Rules: Limit driving time to 11 hours per day within a 14-hour window, followed by 10 consecutive hours off duty. Drivers cannot drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days.
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): Required in most commercial trucks to accurately track driving hours and prevent falsification of records.
- Drug and Alcohol Testing: Mandatory testing before employment, randomly throughout employment, after accidents, and upon reasonable suspicion.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Regular inspection, repair, and maintenance records must be kept for all vehicles.
- Commercial Driver's License (CDL): Specific training and testing requirements for operating commercial vehicles.
- Cargo Securement: Detailed requirements for properly securing different types of cargo.
Pennsylvania-Specific Regulations
In addition to federal regulations, Pennsylvania has state-specific rules for commercial vehicles:
- Weight Restrictions: Maximum gross weight of 80,000 pounds on interstate highways, with specific axle weight distributions required.
- Size Limitations: Maximum width of 8'6", height of 13'6", and length restrictions varying by vehicle type.
- Registration Requirements: Commercial vehicles must be registered with the state and display valid registration credentials.
- Inspection Requirements: Commercial vehicles must undergo periodic safety inspections.
- Pennsylvania USDOT Number: Companies operating commercial vehicles in Pennsylvania must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT Number.
Statute of Limitations
In Pennsylvania, truck accident victims generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there are exceptions that might extend or shorten this timeframe in certain circumstances.
For claims against government entities (such as accidents involving state-owned vehicles or caused by road defects), special notice requirements apply, and claims must often be filed within six months.
Failing to file within the applicable statute of limitations typically results in the permanent loss of your right to seek compensation, making it crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after a truck accident.
Truck Accident Settlements in Pennsylvania
The value of a truck accident case depends on numerous factors, including the severity of injuries, impact on quality of life, financial losses, and available insurance coverage. While each case is unique, understanding typical settlement ranges can provide some perspective.
Average Settlement Ranges
According to recent data on Pennsylvania truck accident cases:
- The average truck accident injury lawsuit in Pennsylvania typically ranges between $75,000 and $150,000.
- Severe cases involving catastrophic injuries or wrongful death can result in settlements exceeding $1 million.
- Settlements can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances, ranging from tens of thousands to several million dollars.
Factors That Affect Settlement Amounts
Injury-Related Factors
- Severity and permanence of injuries
- Need for ongoing medical care
- Impact on earning capacity
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- Disfigurement or disability
Case-Specific Factors
- Clarity of liability
- Percentage of comparative fault
- Available insurance coverage
- Quality of evidence
- Trucking company's violation history
Timeline for Truck Accident Settlements
Truck accident cases typically take longer to resolve than regular car accident cases due to their complexity:
- Most truck accident cases are resolved within 6 to 18 months, though complex cases can take longer.
- Cases that go to trial may take 18 to 36+ months to complete.
- Cases involving appeals or contested liability can extend to 2 to 4+ years.
While the legal process takes time, an experienced truck accident attorney can help expedite your case while still fighting for maximum compensation.
Why Choose PA Attorney Source for Your Truck Accident Case
Specialized Expertise
Our attorneys focus specifically on complex vehicle accidents, including commercial truck crashes. We understand the nuances of both state and federal trucking regulations that affect your case.
Thorough Investigation
We employ accident reconstruction specialists, industry experts, and experienced investigators to build the strongest possible case, preserving critical evidence that might otherwise be lost.
Resources to Take on Big Companies
Our firm has the financial resources and legal network to stand up to large trucking companies and their insurance providers, leveling the playing field for our clients.
Proven Track Record
We have secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for truck accident victims throughout Pennsylvania, with numerous six and seven-figure recoveries.
Client-Centered Approach
We limit our caseload to ensure each client receives personal attention. Your case will be handled by experienced attorneys, not passed off to paralegals or junior associates.
No Fee Unless We Win
Our contingency fee structure means you pay nothing upfront and no legal fees unless we secure compensation for you. We bear the financial risk of your case.
Our Commitment to You
Available 24/7
Our team is always available to take your call, even in emergencies.
No fee unless we win
You pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you.
Same-Day Responses
We respond promptly to all inquiries, typically within hours.
Personalized attention
Your case receives dedicated focus from experienced attorneys.
Contact Our Pennsylvania Truck Injury Attorneys
Location:
100 North 18th Street, Suite 305, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone:
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Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our truck accident attorneys are standing by to review your case and explain your legal options. Don't wait - the sooner we can start investigating your accident, the stronger your case will be.