Philadelphia Commercial Vehicle Accidents Attorney

With federal highways I-78, I-95, I-80, and several major state and county roads traveling through Southeastern Pennsylvania, you can expect that the risk of commercial vehicle accidents is high. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there are 7,950 crashes involving semis, delivery trucks, 18-wheelers, buses, box trucks, and other commercial vehicles every year statewide. Approximately 180 people lose their lives in these collisions, and another 3,480 victims suffer serious injuries. The resulting physical, financial, and emotional losses are devastating.

Fortunately, Pennsylvania personal injury laws provide you with rights, and our team at Quinn Injury Lawyers is prepared to help you enforce them. You may be entitled to compensation for your losses, though the claims process can be complex when you are dealing with a business-related crash. Please contact our firm to schedule a free case evaluation with a Philadelphia commercial vehicle accidents attorney who can advise you on your remedies. It is also helpful to review some basics about these claims.

How Commercial Vehicle Crashes Happen

The primary cause behind these collisions is negligence, a legal term that refers to a breach of the duty to drive safely. With many accidents involving large trucks, the specific form of negligence is similar to other motor vehicle crashes. Drivers breach the duty of care by speeding, running red lights, failing to yield the right of way, and driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

However, there are some causes behind commercial vehicle accidents that are unique. Examples of negligence in these collisions include:

• Taking curves too quickly with a heavy load.
• Failing to comply with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations established by FMCSA.
• Not complying with weight limits.
• Neglect in loading cargo onto the trailer, leading it to shift or fall off.
• Improper maintenance of the truck, trailer, and other components.

What to Expect with the Legal Process

Commercial vehicle owners and operators are required to carry insurance in the same way as other motorists, so filing a claim with the insurer is the first step. You might expect that you will only need to fill out some forms, but there are pitfalls when dealing with insurance companies. They are trying to pay out as little as possible to protect their bottom line, meaning your claim may be denied or you receive a lowball counteroffer to settle.

If the insurer refuses to pay a fair amount as compensation after a crash, you will need to go to court. You initiate a lawsuit by filing a complaint, followed by many other litigation activities. Depositions, discovery, motions, and court appearances are part of the process.

Types of Compensation for Victims

Monetary damages are intended to help you get your life back after a crash as if the accident never happened. There are two types of compensation available in a commercial vehicle collision claim:

1.    Economic Damages: These are the tangible, definite losses you suffer, such as medical bills for treatment. You may also qualify to recover lost wages if you missed work.

2.    Noneconomic Damages: In this category, compensation aims to make you whole for the personal, subjective losses you sustain. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and disfigurement are types of noneconomic damages.

Legal Help Overcoming Challenges

Along with the typical hurdles of dealing with an insurance company, there are additional issues that you may encounter with a commercial vehicle accident claim. The policy amount is higher, which means insurers put their best employees on your claim to fight it. Your damages are also higher since large vehicles cause severe, catastrophic injuries. There may also be complications due to multiple potential parties beyond the driver, like an employer, trucking company, or manufacturer of defective parts.

Quinn Injury lawyers are prepared for challenges, at each stage of the legal process. You can trust a Philadelphia commercial vehicle accident lawyer to tackle all important tasks, such as:

• Gathering evidence
• Obtaining and reviewing your medical records
• Discussing settlement options with the insurer
• Filing a lawsuit in court if the insurer will not pay a fair amount

A Philadelphia Commercial Vehicle Accidents Lawyer Will Protect Your Rights

As you can see, collisions involving business vehicles can be more complex than other traffic crashes for various reasons. Instead of putting your rights at risk, count on the Quinn Injury Lawyers to advocate on your behalf. For information on our services, please call (215) 709-8923 or visit our website to set up a complimentary consultation. A Philadelphia commercial vehicle accident attorney can explain the legal process and next steps after reviewing your case.

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