We understand how it can happen in an instant. Your life is going along as usual, and then suddenly a truck accident turns your life upside down. And regardless of whether the crash was big or small, the process of figuring out your next step can be overwhelming.
That is why we are here to help. If you have been involved in a truck accident, get a free, no-risk evaluation of your case. Call the lawyers at Berger and Green today at (412) 661-1400.
Why Truck Accidents Are Different from Other Accidents
The total number of truck accidents and fatalities in Pennsylvania are in decline, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Nonetheless, accidents involving heavy trucks still number in the thousands, and when they occur, the damage can be catastrophic to property and human life.
In a car accident involving two cars, those drivers are typically the owners of the vehicles as well as the insurance policyholders. This is not the case with many truck drivers. When a truck accident occurs, there are many people and factors that can come into play. Some of the potential parties who could be liable in a trucking accident include:
- The driver
- The truck owner
- The cargo owner
- The maintainer
- The manufacturer
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Erie, call (412) 661-1400
Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents
The trucking industry is integral in the transportation of goods in the United States. A single truck driver can travel thousands of miles per year. With so much time behind the wheel, though, there is also an increased likelihood of human error and negligence. Here are the common causes of trucking accidents:
- Driver Fatigue: Many drivers are faced with heavy, unrealistic schedules, which causes them to drive beyond the time they are allowed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration without adequate rest.
- Drugs and Alcohol: Driving under that influence of alcohol and drugs can slow reaction speed and impair the proper operation of the truck.
- Inadequate Training: Training regulations are required, but unfortunately, some drivers may be moved to the road before they are ready.
- Driver Error: With such heavy machinery and loads, a mistake can happen at any time, especially if the driver is tired or distracted.
- Defective Equipment: If a part of the truck has been manufactured or installed improperly, the truck can malfunction and cause an accident.
- Improper Maintenance: Maintenance is essential to keep the truck running efficiently and accurately.
- Improperly Weighted or Unsecured Loads: The load that a truck carries comes in all shapes and sizes. A shift in the cargo or a truck being too heavy could cause the truck to drive abnormally.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, you may have a case for a lawsuit against the liable party. Let us help you determine who is at fault. Call Berger and Green at (412) 661-1400.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me (412) 661-1400
Types of Damages You May Recover After a Truck Accident
There are a number of damages you may be entitled to as a result of your truck accident. They include:
- Medical expenses, such as hospital stays, ambulance rides, medicine, surgeries, rehabilitation, and other out-of-pocket expenses
- Cost of medical equipment needed to recover from your injuries
- Damage of property
- Lost wages
- Future wages if you are unable to return to work
- Lost benefits and opportunity from time away from work
- Pain and suffering
In some cases, if the defendant has behaved with gross negligence, the court will award punitive damages. This is intended as a punishment to discourage future negligent behavior from the defendant as well as others.
If you have been injured in a truck accident due to someone’s negligence, it can also be overwhelming dealing with a legal case. We can handle your claim and the insurance companies on your behalf. Call Berger and Green at (412) 661-1400 to begin working on your claim evaluation.
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Laws that Could Impact Your Truck Accident Claim
PA § 5524 imposes a statute of limitations on automobile accidents, whether a truck was involved or not. If you do not file your claim within two years of the incident, you most likely lose the right to pursue damages.
There is an exception to this, and that is if the victim’s injuries are fatal. If the victim passes away as a result of the accident, the clock on the statute of limitations begins on the date of the victim’s death.
Another law that could impact your claim is the “Modified Comparative Fault” rule. According to Pennsylvania law, even if you are partially at fault in an accident, you can still recover damages associated with your injuries.
Do not leave your case up to chance. Let our 40 years of experience help your truck accident case. Call Berger and Green at (412) 661-1400 to schedule a no-risk consultation today.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
What an Erie, PA Truck Accident Lawyer Can Do for My Lawsuit
Lawsuits against a trucking company can be quite complex because the insurance company has a lot to lose if they are found liable for the truck accident. There are a number of ways we can take the burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on the process of healing. They include:
- Investigating and gathering evidence in your case, including medical records, eyewitness statements, and police reports
- Searching for insurance policies that could provide additional compensation to cover your injuries
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
- Pursuing legal action at trial if we are unable to reach an agreeable settlement
- Providing you with 24/7 support from the beginning until the end
If you are ready to get to work on your case right away, call the dedicated lawyers at Berger and Green at (412) 661-1400 to start working on your claim.
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