At Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, we have successfully represented countless clients injured in devastating truck accidents. Truck accidents are complex cases involving massive vehicles, severe injuries, and often, corporate entities working hard to minimize their liability. Our goal is to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
We represent clients in a wide range of truck accident cases, including those involving commercial trucks, 18-wheelers, and other large vehicles. Whether your accident resulted from truck driver negligence, poorly maintained equipment, or defective parts, we have the resources and experience to handle it.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Trucks share the road with passenger vehicles, and when negligence or recklessness occurs, catastrophic accidents can follow. Some of the most common causes include:
- Fatigue: Truck drivers are legally required to rest for at least 10 hours after 14 hours of driving. Despite these regulations, fatigue remains a leading cause of truck accidents. Sleep-deprived drivers are more prone to mistakes, slower reaction times, and risky decision-making.
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving isn’t limited to texting. Truck drivers may also be distracted by GPS systems, two-way radios, or other in-cab technology. Even a split second of distraction can have disastrous results when operating an 80,000-pound vehicle.
- Substance Use: The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for commercial drivers is just 0.04%, half the limit for non-commercial drivers. Some drivers also rely on unregulated energy drinks or stimulant pills to stay awake, which can impair judgment and raise the risk of accidents.
- Unsafe Conditions and Equipment: Not all truck accidents are a result of driver error. Equipment failures, such as defective brakes, blown tires, or overloaded cargo, frequently contribute to crashes. Rigorous maintenance and compliance with federal safety standards are essential to prevent these incidents.
Severe Injuries in Truck Accidents
Truck crashes are significantly more likely to result in severe and life-altering injuries for passenger vehicle occupants. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal injuries
- Fractures or broken bones
- Severe burns
- Amputations and loss of mobility
- Lacerations and punctures
- Fatalities
For the victims, these injuries often come with overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. Our experienced team is here to fight for maximum compensation to address these losses.
Pennsylvania Truck Accident Statistics
Truck accidents pose a unique danger to drivers across Pennsylvania due to their size and weight. Recent data reveals that:
- Over 6,000 truck accidents occur in Pennsylvania annually.
- Nearly 1 out of 3 accidents happens on a turnpike.
- Trucks are involved in 10% of all fatal traffic accidents in the state.
- Tire and wheel failures or improperly secured cargo often lead to crashes.
- Allegheny County sees an average of 6 truck accident fatalities annually.
Allegheny County regularly reports high numbers of truck accidents, with intersections like I-79 and Route 28 often being hotspots. Being aware of these dangers is the first step toward safer roadways. Given the scope and complexity of these accidents, the need for skilled legal representation cannot be overstated.
Proving Liability in a Truck Accident Case
You may be wondering, can I sue the trucker in a Pittsburgh trucking crash? Absolutely. However, truck accident liability isn’t always straightforward. Here are potential parties who may be held responsible:
- Truckers: If the driver was negligent or violated regulations.
- Trucking companies: For unsafe hiring practices, poor maintenance, or inadequate training.
- Manufacturers: For defective equipment such as brakes or tires.
- Cargo owners or loaders: For improperly loaded or unsecured cargo.
- Inspectors and maintenance vendors: For overlooking or failing to fix safety issues.
Holding the right parties accountable is key to maximizing your compensation. That’s where our attorneys’ investigative experience comes in.
Our experienced lawyers leverage their knowledge of federal trucking regulations, including those outlined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), to strengthen your claim. FMCSA regulations govern everything from truck weights and cargo loading to driver hours and vehicle inspections. Violations can often be critical in proving fault and securing compensation.
Understanding how these laws connect to local and state regulations is where our legal guidance shines.
Compensation for Truck Accident Victims
Victims of truck accidents often face staggering expenses, from medical bills to lost income.
Compensation in these cases typically falls into three categories:
- Economic Damages: Costs for treatment, surgeries, rehab, lost wages, and repairs.
- Non-Economic Damages: Pain, suffering, and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Punitive Damages: Applied in cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Every case is unique, and our attorneys will evaluate your specific circumstances to determine the full scope of compensation you are entitled to.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents
Who pays for truck accident injuries in Pennsylvania?
Liability usually falls to the responsible party’s insurance—whether it’s the truck driver, the trucking company, or another liable entity.
How long does it take to settle a truck accident claim?
The time frame varies depending on the complexity of your case. Serious injuries or disputes over liability can extend negotiations.
What should I do after a truck accident?
After seeking medical attention, document the scene, notify your insurance, and contact a truck accident attorney for guidance.
Why Choose Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman?
Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident is incredibly challenging on your own. That’s why partnering with a law firm known for its experience and compassion is so vital.
Contact Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman today for a free consultation. Together, we’ll fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you need to move forward.
