Reading 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney

Accidents involving large commercial trucks, such as 18-wheelers, in Reading, Pennsylvania, are drastically different from typical car crashes due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. The devastating force of a collision with an 18-wheeler often leads to severe injuries, permanent disabilities, or even fatalities for those in smaller vehicles.

Victims commonly face overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial burdens, including extensive medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.

If you or a loved one has been injured in such a collision, it’s critical to have an experienced Reading 18-wheeler accident lawyer on your side. At Wilk Law Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, we understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to fighting for the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

We’ll work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and help you navigate every step of the legal process.

Do 18-Wheeler Accidents Happen Often in Reading, Pennyslvania?

Accidents involving 18-wheelers are unfortunately a frequent occurrence in Pennsylvania, with Reading and its surrounding areas seeing their share of these devastating crashes. According to PennDOT’s 2023 crash statistics, heavy trucks were involved in over 7,000 reported accidents across the state in just one year.

Of those, nearly 1,300 resulted in injuries, and 157 were fatal. These figures highlight the serious risks posed by 18-wheelers on Pennsylvania’s roads, including major routes near Reading like Route 222 and Interstate 76.

Statewide data from the National Safety Council further emphasizes the dangers of large truck accidents. Heavy trucks accounted for approximately 14% of all fatal crashes in Pennsylvania, with a significant portion resulting in severe injuries or deaths.

The sheer size and weight of these vehicles, coupled with their longer stopping distances and blind spots, make them a considerable hazard on busy roadways.

If you’ve been involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, it’s crucial to contact an experienced 18-wheeler accident attorney in Reading, Pennsylvania as soon as possible. At our injury law firm, we understand the challenges these cases present and are committed to helping victims seek the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

What Are The Leading Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Reading, Pennsylvania?

Understanding the common types of truck accidents can help victims and their families recognize the dangers and determine how to seek justice. Below are some of the most common types of 18-wheeler accidents in Reading, Pennsylvania:

1. Jackknife Accidents – Jackknifing occurs when the trailer of an 18-wheeler swings out to the side, forming a sharp angle with the truck’s cab. This often happens due to hard braking or slippery road conditions. Jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic, causing serious collisions.
2. Rollover Crashes – A rollover can occur when a truck takes a turn too quickly or when cargo is unevenly loaded. In these cases, the truck can tip onto its side, potentially crushing nearby vehicles or causing multi-car pileups.
3. Tire Blowouts – Tire blowouts can cause a truck driver to lose control, leading to swerving or collisions with other vehicles. Pieces of blown tires on the road can also create hazards for other drivers. Regular maintenance and proper inspections are crucial to prevent these incidents.
4. Wide-Turn Accidents – When making a right turn, 18-wheelers often swing left to create enough space for the maneuver. If the driver fails to account for vehicles or pedestrians in the surrounding area, collisions can occur.
5. Blind Spot Collisions – Trucks have large blind spots, known as “no-zones,” where other vehicles are not visible to the driver. If a truck driver changes lanes without checking these areas, it can result in devastating crashes.
6. Rear-End Crashes – Due to their size and weight, 18-wheelers require a much longer stopping distance than smaller vehicles. When truck drivers follow too closely or fail to react in time, rear-end collisions can occur, often causing severe injuries to occupants of the smaller vehicle.
7. Underride Accidents – Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a truck’s trailer. These collisions are among the deadliest and often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
8. Improperly Loaded Cargo – When cargo is not properly secured or exceeds weight limits, it can shift or spill during transit. This can lead to rollovers, falling debris, or loss of vehicle control, endangering everyone on the road.
9. Head-On Collisions – These occur when an 18-wheeler crosses the centerline, often due to driver fatigue, distraction, or impaired driving. Head-on collisions with trucks are particularly deadly due to the immense force of impact.
10. T-Bone Accidents – T-bone crashes often happen at intersections when a truck driver runs a red light or fails to yield, striking another vehicle perpendicularly. These accidents can result in life-altering injuries for occupants of the struck vehicle.

To learn more about the causes of truck accidents in Pennsylvania, schedule a consultation with an experienced Reading 18-wheeler accident lawyer from our law firm today. We offer free consultations and are never too busy to speak with you.

Are There Rules and Regulations That Truck Drivers in Pennsylvania Must Follow?

Pennsylvania enforces a robust set of trucking regulations to safeguard motorists and ensure that commercial vehicles operate responsibly. These rules cover vehicle maintenance, driver qualifications, and operational restrictions to minimize accidents.

Weight Restrictions for Commercial Vehicles

To preserve infrastructure and enhance road safety, Pennsylvania has strict weight limits for trucks based on axle configurations and roadway classifications. Overloaded trucks can lead to fines, suspension of licenses, and increased accident risks due to reduced stability and braking capability.

Proper planning and strict adherence to these limits are essential for avoiding damage to roads and bridges and ensuring the safety of other road users.

Driver Work Hour Regulations

Driver fatigue is a serious concern in the trucking industry, which is why Pennsylvania enforces Hours of Service (HOS) regulations in accordance with federal standards. Key rules include:

• A maximum of 11 driving hours following at least 10 hours of rest.
• No driving after 14 consecutive hours on duty.
• Limits on total driving time within seven- or eight-day periods, depending on schedules.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) track driving hours to ensure compliance. Violations, such as exceeding allowable driving limits, pose significant safety risks and carry steep penalties.

Safety Inspections for Commercial Vehicles

Annual safety inspections are mandatory in Pennsylvania and focus on key systems like brakes, tires, lighting, and cargo security. These inspections are critical for preventing accidents caused by mechanical failures. Noncompliance with inspection requirements can lead to hefty fines and vehicles being declared unfit for operation. If a truck’s lack of proper maintenance contributed to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation.

CDL Certification Requirements for Truck Drivers

All commercial truck drivers in Pennsylvania must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Acquiring this license requires passing knowledge and skills tests to demonstrate competency in handling large vehicles safely. Trucking companies also have a responsibility to hire properly licensed drivers and ensure that their teams are adequately trained and prepared to meet safety standards.

Risks from Light or Improperly Loaded Trailers

Lightly loaded trailers and improperly secured cargo pose unique challenges on the road. Empty or underloaded trailers are more prone to instability, especially in adverse weather conditions or during sudden maneuvers. Similarly, unsecured or shifting cargo can cause rollovers, spills, or collisions.

Pennsylvania law mandates that all freight must be properly secured to minimize these dangers. Failure to adhere to these requirements can lead to devastating accidents.

If you were injured in an accident with a commercial truck, our experienced Reading 18-wheeler accident attorneys can evaluate whether noncompliance with these laws contributed to the crash and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Why Are Pennsylvania Truck Accident Lawsuits So Challenging?

Truck accident claims are far more complicated than typical car accidents due to the size and weight of trucks, which often result in more severe injuries and significant property damage. Victims may face long-term medical care or permanent disability.

In addition, these cases require a thorough understanding of federal regulations like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Act (FMCSA), which governs truck inspections, maintenance, and driver safety.

With multiple parties involved, including the trucking company, driver, and cargo loaders, it’s crucial to have an experienced Reading personal injury lawyer on your side.

Identifying The Liable Party in a Reading 18-Wheeler Accident

Determining liability in a truck accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be at fault. The following parties could potentially be held responsible for your losses:

• The Truck Driver: If the driver was operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, fatigued, or distracted, they could be held liable for the accident.
• The Trucking Company: Companies may be responsible if they failed to properly train drivers, ensure regular vehicle maintenance, or follow safety regulations.
• Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can lead to shifting that causes accidents. If cargo was improperly packed, the loaders or their employers may be liable.
• Truck Manufacturers: Defective truck parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, can contribute to accidents. In this case, the manufacturer may be responsible for the malfunction.

To learn more about who can be held liable in a truck accident in Reading, Pennsylvania, schedule a free consultation with our legal team today. We can help you understand your rights after an accident or injury involving an 18-wheeler or commercial vehicle.

What Are Some Types of Evidence Which Will Strengthen My Truck Accident Lawsuit?

After a truck accident, gathering the right evidence can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. While your injuries may prevent you from collecting evidence immediately, there are several places you can look to support your case, often with the help of a trusted attorney. Here’s where to find crucial evidence:

• Truck Driver Logs: Truck drivers are required to log their hours to ensure they aren’t driving while fatigued. If a driver exceeds the hours of service regulations, they may be responsible for the accident due to fatigue. Subpoenaing these logs could reveal negligence and strengthen your case.
• Maintenance Records: Trucking companies are required to perform regular maintenance on their vehicles. If maintenance lapses or faulty repairs led to the accident, these records can help establish liability.
• Witness Statements: Eyewitness accounts can provide essential details regarding the accident’s cause. If you can, collect statements from witnesses at the scene and ensure you have their contact information for follow-up.
• Expert Testimony: In cases where causation is disputed, expert witnesses such as accident reconstructionists can provide their professional opinions. Their analysis of the accident scene and evidence can significantly strengthen your case.
• Police Reports: The official police report can provide valuable insights into the accident, including the parties involved, witness information, and any initial findings related to fault.

Collecting Evidence After the Truck Accident

If you are able, document evidence at the accident scene immediately. Your phone can be a powerful tool to preserve vital information, such as:

• Photographs of the scene, including vehicle positions and any contributing factors (e.g., road hazards, traffic lights).
• Photos of your visible injuries.
• Contact details of other drivers and witnesses.
• Your personal recollections of the event while the details are fresh.

In addition, seek medical attention right away—even for minor injuries. A detailed medical report will serve as crucial evidence for your claim.

Other Important Evidence

In many truck accident cases, an experienced Reading 18-wheeler accident lawyer from our law firm will take charge of the investigation to gather further evidence, such as:

• Police reports
• Eyewitness statements
• Dash cam or traffic camera footage
• Accident reconstruction reports
• Medical records, bills, and receipts for out-of-pocket expenses
• Driver logs and maintenance records
• Expert testimony

Pennsylvania is a No-Fault State, What Does That Mean?

In Pennsylvania, the state follows a “no-fault” system for minor accidents. This means that after a minor accident, regardless of who is at fault, individuals must first seek compensation through their own insurance policies for medical expenses and certain economic losses, up to the limits of their personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.

However, the no-fault system does not apply to serious truck accidents. If you are involved in a severe truck accident, you are entitled to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party, whether that’s the truck driver, the trucking company, or other responsible parties such as brokers or manufacturers.

How Will Pennsylvania’s Comparative Negligence Laws Affect My 18-Wheeler Accident Claim?

Trucking accidents often involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and other motorists, making these cases more complex. Pennsylvania operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning that fault is assigned to all parties involved, and the damages awarded are adjusted based on each party’s level of responsibility.

For instance, if a truck driver runs a red light and crashes into a car that was speeding, both drivers may share fault. In this scenario, the truck driver could be found 70% at fault for running the red light, and the car driver 30% at fault for speeding. Under Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence laws, the car driver can still recover damages, but the award would be reduced by their percentage of fault—meaning they would receive 70% of their total damages.

This principle helps ensure that liability is fairly distributed and encourages accountability among all drivers. For victims, the amount of compensation they receive will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a victim is awarded $100,000 in damages but is found 20% at fault, they would only receive $80,000.

To learn more about comparative negligence laws in Pennsylvania, reach out our experienced Reading 18-wheeler accident attorneys.

How Much Money Can I Expect To Get For My Reading 18-Wheeler Accident?

Several factors can influence the settlement offer you receive after a truck accident, with damage caps and the decision to pursue litigation being among the most significant.

Damage Caps in Pennsylvania

Damage caps are statutory limits on the amount of compensation an accident victim can receive. Under Pennsylvania law, the following damage caps apply:

• $250,000 cap for lawsuits against state government agencies
• $500,000 cap for lawsuits against local government agencies

These caps can limit the amount you can recover in specific cases, especially if government entities are involved. Understanding these limits is crucial when determining the potential value of your claim.

Litigation and Settlement Negotiations

Another factor that can affect the outcome of your truck accident case is whether your claim goes to trial or is resolved through settlement. In many cases, insurance companies prefer to settle claims outside of court to avoid the high costs of litigation. The involvement of an skilled legal representative can prompt insurers to offer a higher settlement to avoid the uncertainties and expenses of going to trial.

Knowledgeable Truck Accident Lawyer in Reading, Pennsylvania

At Wilk Law Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation for truck accident victims in Reading, Pennsylvania. Our knowledgeable attorneys understand the complexities of truck accident cases and the significant physical, emotional, and financial toll they can take on victims.

We are committed to fighting for the justice you deserve, carefully investigating every detail of your case, and working relentlessly to secure the compensation necessary to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

When you choose us, you are choosing a law firm that prioritizes your well-being and strives to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. With our extensive knowledge of Pennsylvania’s laws and dedication to our clients, we are here to guide you through every step of your truck accident claim.

Let us put our experience to work for you and help you navigate this challenging time with confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward getting the compensation you deserve.

Locations near Reading, Pennsylvania, which our law firm serves victims of 18-wheeler accidents include West Chester, Philadelphia, Downingtown, Pottstown, Kennett Square, Phoenixville, Exton, Berwyn, Coatesville, Valley Forge,  Devon, Frazer, and more.