Northeast Philadelphia Truck Accident Lawyers

• Northeast Philadelphia Truck Driver Error Accidents: Truck drivers require specialized training to operate large commercial vehicles. If driver inexperience, recklessness, or lack of training caused your accident, our legal team will demand justice for your injuries.
• Northeast Philadelphia Improper Truck Maintenance Accidents: Trucking companies and drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles to prevent mechanical failures. If a tire blowout, brake failure, or other mechanical defect caused your accident, we investigate whether negligence in truck maintenance played a role in your crash.
• Northeast Philadelphia Intersection Truck Accidents: Intersections are particularly dangerous for truck drivers and other motorists. Failure to obey traffic signals, misjudging speed, or aggressive driving can lead to catastrophic intersection crashes, for which we aggressively pursue liability claims.
• Northeast Philadelphia Jackknife Accidents: Jackknife accidents occur when a truck's trailer swings outward, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab. These accidents often block multiple lanes of traffic and cause multi-vehicle pile-ups. Our attorneys thoroughly investigate jackknife crashes to determine liability and secure compensation for victims.
• Northeast Philadelphia Rear-End Truck Accidents: Due to their massive size and weight, trucks require longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles. When a truck driver is speeding or fails to brake in time, rear-end collisions can result in severe or even fatal injuries.
• Northeast Philadelphia Rollover Truck Accidents: Trucks have a higher center of gravity, making them more prone to rollovers, especially when improperly loaded or driven recklessly. Our attorneys investigate negligent loading practices, speeding, and driver error as possible causes of rollover accidents.
• Northeast Philadelphia Texting While Driving Truck Accidents: Texting and driving is illegal for all motorists, but for truck drivers, the consequences can be even more devastating. If a truck driver was using their phone or engaging in other distractions, we fight to hold them and their employer accountable.
• Northeast Philadelphia Wide Turn Accidents: Truck drivers must take extra precautions when making wide turns to avoid striking smaller vehicles, bicyclists, or pedestrians. When improper turn execution leads to an accident, our firm aggressively pursues compensation for victims.
• And More: Every truck accident case is unique, and our Northeast Philadelphia truck accident lawyers are equipped to handle all types of commercial vehicle accident claims. Whether your crash involved a delivery truck, big rig, semi-truck, or 18-wheeler, we have the experience and dedication to fight for your rights.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Northeast Philadelphia

Truck accidents in Northeast Philadelphia can happen for a variety of reasons, but many are preventable and stem from negligence—whether by the truck driver, trucking company, or another party. Understanding the common causes of truck accidents can help victims build a strong legal case and hold the responsible parties accountable. At van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin, our Northeast Philadelphia truck accident lawyers have extensive knowledge of the trucking industry's regulations, safety standards, and liability concerns, allowing us to effectively represent accident victims.

1. Truck Driver Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the leading causes of truck accidents. Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, leading many to violate federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations that limit their driving time. A fatigued driver has slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and an increased risk of causing a serious crash.

2. Equipment Failure & Mechanical Defects

Commercial trucks require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are roadworthy. When a brake failure, tire blowout, engine malfunction, or steering issue occurs due to lack of maintenance or a manufacturing defect, devastating accidents can follow. Our attorneys thoroughly investigate truck maintenance records and manufacturer recalls to determine if faulty equipment played a role in the crash.

3. Improper Loading & Cargo Shifts

Trucks carry heavy and often hazardous loads, making proper loading essential for safety. If cargo is overloaded, unbalanced, or improperly secured, it can shift unexpectedly, causing the truck to jackknife, tip over, or lose control. In these cases, cargo companies, loaders, or the trucking company may be liable for negligence.

4. Speeding & Reckless Driving

Due to their large size and weight, trucks require significantly more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. Speeding, tailgating, aggressive lane changes, and failure to adjust for weather conditions are common causes of truck accidents. When a truck driver is operating recklessly, the risk of a serious crash increases dramatically.

5. Distracted Driving

Truck drivers spend long hours behind the wheel, and distractions—such as texting, eating, using GPS, or adjusting in-cab technology—can take their focus off the road. Distracted driving is a major factor in rear-end collisions, sideswipes, and intersection accidents. Our attorneys subpoena phone records and other evidence to prove driver negligence in distracted driving cases.

6. Drunk or Drugged Driving

Commercial truck drivers are held to stricter alcohol and drug regulations than passenger vehicle drivers, but some still operate under the influence of alcohol, prescription medications, or illegal substances. Driving a truck while impaired significantly reduces reaction time, coordination, and decision-making ability, leading to catastrophic crashes.

7. Inadequate Driver Training & Experience

Operating a semi-truck, big rig, or commercial vehicle requires extensive training and specialized skills. Unfortunately, some trucking companies cut corners by hiring inexperienced or underqualified drivers to save money. Improperly trained drivers may struggle with wide turns, defensive driving, and emergency maneuvers, increasing the likelihood of a collision.

8. Poor Road & Weather Conditions

While truck drivers cannot control the weather or road conditions, they are responsible for adjusting their driving behaviors accordingly. Rain, snow, ice, and fog require truckers to reduce speed and increase following distances. Failure to do so can result in hydroplaning, rollovers, or jackknife accidents. Additionally, poorly maintained roads, potholes, and missing traffic signs can contribute to truck crashes, potentially making local government agencies liable for unsafe roadway conditions.

9. Trucking Company Negligence

Sometimes, the trucking company itself is responsible for a crash due to:

• Forcing drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, encouraging speeding or skipping rest breaks
• Failing to conduct background checks on drivers with poor safety records
• Neglecting truck maintenance and failing to comply with safety inspections
• Overloading trucks beyond their weight limits

In these cases, our truck accident attorneys in Northeast Philadelphia, PA, pursue claims not just against the driver but also against the trucking company, maintenance provider, or cargo loading company for their role in the accident.

Holding Negligent Parties Accountable for Truck Accidents in Northeast Philadelphia

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident caused by negligence, van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin is here to help. Our experienced Northeast Philadelphia truck accident lawyers thoroughly investigate each case to determine the cause of the crash and hold all responsible parties accountable.

What You Should Do Following a Truck Accident in Northeast Philadelphia

A truck accident can be a terrifying and overwhelming experience. In the immediate aftermath, it's crucial to take the right steps to protect your health, gather important evidence, and safeguard your legal rights. At van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin, our Northeast Philadelphia truck accident lawyers are here to guide you through the process and ensure that you have the strongest case possible.

Checklist: What to Do After a Truck Accident

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

• Always call 911 to report the accident and request emergency medical assistance if needed.
• Pennsylvania law requires drivers to report accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.
• A police report will provide crucial details that can support your claim.

2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

• Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional.
• Some injuries, like internal bleeding, concussions, or spinal damage, may not show symptoms right away.
• Medical records will serve as evidence of your injuries when filing a claim.

3. Gather evidence at the Scene (If You Are Physically Able)

Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including:

• Vehicle damage
• Skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signals
• Any visible injuries

Get contact details for all parties involved:

• Truck driver's name, trucking company, and commercial insurance provider
• License plate numbers and truck identification numbers
  Collect witness contact information—statements from bystanders can strengthen your case.

4. Do Not Admit Fault or Apologize

Even if you think you may have played a role in the accident, do not admit fault—liability in truck accidents is complex. Let the investigation determine who is responsible before making any statements.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Stick to the basic facts—avoid making recorded statements without consulting a lawyer.

6. Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney

Trucking companies and their insurers immediately begin building a defense after an accident. A skilled truck accident attorney in Northeast Philadelphia, PA, will:

• Launch a detailed investigation into the accident.
• Preserve crucial black box data and truck maintenance records.
• Identify all liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or maintenance providers.

The sooner you have legal representation, the stronger your case will be.

7. Keep Track of Medical Treatment and Expenses

Maintain records of:

• Doctor visits, surgeries, prescriptions, and therapy sessions
• Medical bills, transportation costs, and lost wages
• Any physical or emotional suffering you experience

8. Avoid Speaking to the Trucking Company's Insurance Adjusters

• The trucking company's insurer is not on your side—their goal is to minimize their payout.
• Do not agree to early settlement offers without consulting an attorney.
• Anything you say can be used against you to weaken your claim.

Time Limits for Filing a Truck Accident Claim in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law limits the time you have to file a truck accident lawsuit. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Pennsylvania is:

• Two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the negligent party.
• If a wrongful death occurs, families also have two years to file a claim.
• Exceptions may apply in certain cases, such as claims against government entities.

Failing to file within the legal time frame can result in losing your right to compensation, which is why acting quickly is crucial.

Take Immediate Action – Contact Our Northeast Philadelphia Truck Accident Lawyers Today

Truck accident cases are complex, involving multiple parties, corporate legal teams, and extensive investigations. At van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin, our Northeast Philadelphia truck accident lawyers are ready to fight for your rights and hold negligent trucking companies accountable. Call us today for a free consultation or fill out our online contact form, and let us begin building your case immediately.