Center City Truck Accident Lawyers

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Center City

Truck accidents in Center City, PA, can happen for a variety of reasons, many of which are preventable. Due to the massive size and weight of commercial trucks, even a minor mistake by a truck driver or a trucking company can lead to devastating consequences for other motorists. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, our Center City truck accident lawyers have extensive experience investigating truck crashes and identifying the key factors that contributed to them. Below are some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Center City.

1. Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often work long hours under strict delivery schedules, leading to extreme fatigue. Although federal regulations limit the number of consecutive hours a driver can be on the road, some companies pressure drivers to exceed these limits, increasing the risk of drowsy driving accidents. Fatigue impairs reaction times, decision-making, and awareness, making truck crashes far more likely.

2. Distracted Driving

Truck drivers must remain fully focused on the road at all times, but distractions such as texting, using a GPS, eating, or adjusting in-cab devices can take their attention away from driving. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to catastrophic accidents, especially on busy Center City streets.

3. Equipment Failure and Mechanical Defects

Trucking companies and drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles, yet many accidents occur due to brake failures, tire blowouts, steering malfunctions, and other mechanical issues. When a trucking company fails to properly inspect and repair its fleet, it may be held liable for accidents caused by equipment failure.

4. Improper Loading and Cargo Shifts

The way cargo is loaded onto a truck plays a crucial role in its stability. If a truck is overloaded or cargo is improperly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Uneven weight distribution can also lead to rollovers, jackknife accidents, or cargo spills that endanger other motorists.

5. Speeding and Reckless Driving

Large trucks require longer stopping distances, making speeding extremely dangerous. Some truck drivers exceed speed limits to meet tight delivery deadlines, putting everyone on the road at risk. Reckless maneuvers such as tailgating, abrupt lane changes, and aggressive driving further increase the likelihood of accidents.

6. Driving Under the Influence

Although commercial drivers are held to stricter DUI regulations than other motorists, some truck drivers still operate their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired driving significantly reduces reaction times, coordination, and judgment, making collisions far more likely.

7. Inexperienced or Poorly Trained Drivers

Driving a commercial truck requires specialized skills and extensive training. When trucking companies fail to properly vet, train, or supervise their drivers, inexperienced operators can make dangerous errors that lead to serious accidents.

8. Failure to Check Blind Spots

Commercial trucks have large blind spots, making it critical for drivers to check their surroundings before changing lanes or merging. When truck drivers fail to monitor their blind spots, they can easily collide with nearby vehicles, causing severe injuries or fatalities.

9. Lack of Routine Maintenance

Federal trucking regulations require companies to perform regular inspections and maintenance on their vehicles. However, some companies cut corners to save time and money, allowing dangerous trucks with faulty brakes, worn tires, or engine defects to remain on the road, increasing the risk of catastrophic accidents.

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, our truck accident attorneys in Center City, PA, conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of your accident and hold the responsible parties accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

What You Should Do Following a Truck Accident in Center City

A truck accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience, but taking the right steps immediately after the crash can help protect your health, legal rights, and ability to seek compensation. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, our Center City truck accident lawyers recommend following this essential checklist if you are involved in a truck accident:

1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention

• Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately.
• Move to a safe location if possible, but do not leave the scene of the accident.
• Even if you feel fine, seek medical evaluation as some injuries may not appear immediately.

2. Call the Police and Report the Accident

• Always report a truck accident to law enforcement. A police report is a critical piece of evidence for your claim.
• When the officers arrive, provide accurate details but do not admit fault or speculate about what happened.
• Request a copy of the accident report for your records.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene

• Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs.
• Collect contact and insurance information from the truck driver and any other drivers involved.
• Get witness statements and their contact information, as their testimony may support your claim.
• Note the trucking company’s name, license plate number, and any identifying details on the truck.

4. Avoid Speaking to the Trucking Company or Their Insurers

• The trucking company and its insurance provider may try to contact you and get a statement—do not speak to them without consulting a lawyer.
• Anything you say could be used to undermine your claim or reduce your compensation.
• Instead, direct all communication to your truck accident attorneys in Center City, PA.

5. Get Medical Treatment and Keep Records

• Follow up with your doctor for a complete medical evaluation and treatment plan.
• Keep copies of all medical bills, doctor’s notes, prescriptions, and rehabilitation records.
• Document any pain, emotional distress, or changes in your daily life resulting from the accident.

6. Understand Pennsylvania’s Legal Time Limits

• Pennsylvania has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a truck accident.
• If you fail to take legal action within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
• Taking immediate legal action ensures that crucial evidence is preserved and that your case is as strong as possible.

7. Contact a Center City Truck Accident Lawyer as Soon as Possible

• Truck accidents involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and insurers.
• An experienced attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for full compensation.
• At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we are ready to protect your rights and handle every aspect of your case while you focus on your recovery.