Erie, Pennsylvania, Truck Accident Injury Attorney
Being involved in a truck accident can be life-changing. Accidents with commercial vehicles, such as delivery vans, dump trucks or semi-trucks, can be catastrophic. It is crucial to ensure that any injury settlement you receive will cover all your current and future medical needs.
I am attorney Alan Natalie. I have over 30 years of experience representing people in northwest Pennsylvania, and that includes significant trial experience. I have the background and skill to handle major accidents like these – and I know how to maximize your compensation.
Contact me at 814-616-3805 or by email to set up a free consultation. I represent people injured in motor vehicle accidents or other accidents in Erie and throughout Erie County.
What Are Some Common Causes Of Truck Accidents?
Commercial drivers face immense time pressure. Semi-truck drivers drive long hours, sometimes exceeding federal safety limits. Delivery van drivers may be assigned too many deliveries to reasonably make during their shifts. Commercial drivers often battle fatigue and distraction.
Yet, while the truck driver might be responsible, other parties could share responsibility, too. A trucking company, the loaders or maintenance personnel may have played a role, depending on the circumstances. In cases where faulty truck parts contributed to the accident, manufacturers, distributors and retailers might also be liable.
Common causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Poor truck maintenance
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Equipment failures
- Adverse weather conditions
Understanding these causes is important for identifying all the responsible parties. It is essential to identify all of the responsible parties because Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence system, commonly referred to as the “51% rule.” Under this rule, each party is assigned a percentage of fault. You can only obtain compensation for your losses if you were less than 51% at fault for the accident.
What Should You Do If You Are Involved In A Truck Accident In Pennsylvania?
If you are in an accident, prioritize everyone’s health and safety. Here is a list of steps you should take:
- If possible, move everyone out of traffic and to a safe place.
- Call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance if anyone is injured.
- Seek medical attention promptly, even if your injuries seem minor. The full extent of your injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- If possible, document the scene with photos or video.
- If possible, identify any witnesses and collect their contact information.
- Cooperate with the police, but avoid making statements about fault.
- Contact a truck accident injury attorney before speaking to any insurance company.
Following these steps helps protect your rights and strengthen your claim.
When Should You Hire An Experienced Truck Accident Attorney?
You should hire a truck accident lawyer immediately after any injury. Delays can lead to disappearing evidence and fading memories. Multiple parties might be responsible, and truck accidents are often more complex than other cases. You need a diligent and detail-oriented attorney ready to challenge big interests like trucking companies.
Get A Free Legal Consultation About Your Truck Accident
With over 30 years of experience, I am well-equipped to help. Call 814-616-3805 or email me to arrange a free consultation about your truck accident injury case. I am available to meet at your home or hospital room, or wherever it would be most convenient for you.