If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident in Abington Township, PA, don’t wait to contact an Abington truck accident lawyer at Munley Law. We have spent over 60 years battling the trucking companies and their insurance companies to make sure truck injury victims in Montgomery County are fully compensated. Reach out to a Munley Law personal injury attorney today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can protect your best interests.
$32 Million Wrongful Death
$26 Million Truck Accident
$17.5 Million Car Accident
$12 Million Product Liability
$9 Million Truck Accident
$8 Million Truck Accident
$8 Million Truck Accident
$7.5 Million Auto Accident
$6.9 Million Garbage Truck Accident
$6.5 Million Traumatic Brain Injury
$5 Million Medical Malpractice
$5 Million Bus Accidents
Common Causes and Types of Trucking Accidents
Statistics from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation show that in 2022, crashes involving heavy trucks were the highest they had been in five years. These accidents, like accidents involving passenger vehicles, can be caused by a variety of factors, but there are some elements that are specific to truck accidents. In some cases, the truck drivers themselves may be at fault; in other cases, someone else’s negligence may be to blame. It’s also possible for a combination of causes to intersect — for instance, human error exacerbated by something like vehicle failure. Some of the common causes and types of auto accidents involving large trucks include: Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road often lead to driver fatigue, a significant contributor to accidents. Fatigued truck drivers may experience reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of collisions. Speeding: Speeding is a major factor in accidents involving commercial trucks. When truck drivers exceed the speed limit or fail to adjust their speed to road and weather conditions, it can lead to catastrophic accidents. Distracted Driving: Distractions such as texting, using mobile devices, eating, or adjusting the radio divert a truck driver’s attention from the road, making them less aware of potential hazards. Improper Loading: Incorrectly loaded or unsecured cargo can cause a truck to become unstable or lead to cargo spills, both of which can result in accidents. It’s crucial for trucking companies to adhere to proper loading and securing procedures. Inadequate Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance and inspections of trucks can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake issues or tire blowouts, which can trigger accidents. Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous for any motorist, but it poses an even greater risk when the driver is operating a large commercial vehicle. Weather and Road Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, including rain, snow, and fog, can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the likelihood of accidents involving trucks. Poor road conditions, such as potholes, can also cause damage. Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced truck drivers may struggle to handle the unique challenges of operating a large commercial vehicle, leading to errors that can result in accidents. Aggressive Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, sudden lane changes, and road rage can escalate situations and lead to accidents involving trucks. These factors are not exclusive to Abington Township, PA, but they can be found in truck accidents across the United States. It’s important for local authorities, law enforcement agencies, and trucking companies in the Abington area to address these causes through improved enforcement, education, and safety measures to reduce the risk of truck accidents and enhance road safety for everyone.
What to Do After a Commercial Trucking Accident
Seek Medical Attention: Your health and well-being are the top priorities. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident, even if they seem minor at first. Prompt medical care can also help document your injuries for any potential legal claims. Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the local police or law enforcement agency. They will create a police report that includes important details about the incident, which may be crucial for your case. Collect Evidence: If it’s safe to do so, gather evidence at the accident scene. This may include taking photos of the vehicles involved, the accident location, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from the truck driver, any witnesses, and the trucking company. Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as vehicle damage, debris, and your damaged personal property. Do not repair or dispose of anything until you consult with an attorney. Contact an Attorney: It’s highly recommended to consult with an experienced truck accident attorney in Abington, PA. They can provide legal guidance, evaluate your case, and help you understand your rights and potential claims. It’s important to do this as soon as possible after the accident, as personal injury claims in Pennsylvania have a two year statute of limitations. Notify Insurance Companies: Report the accident to your insurance company but avoid providing detailed statements or accepting settlements before consulting with your attorney. The trucking company’s insurer may also be involved. Document Medical Treatment: Keep records of all medical treatment, including hospital visits, surgeries, medications, therapy sessions, and medical records. This documentation will be important for calculating damages.
Damages and Compensation After a Truck Accident
A truck accident can, of course, cause severe physical injuries. But victims of these collisions know that oftentimes, the damage caused stretches far beyond that. The financial burden, emotional toll, and psychological harm Some of the forms of compensation a truck accident victim may receive after the collision include:
- Medical Expenses: This category covers all reasonable and necessary medical costs related to the accident, such as hospital bills, surgeries, doctor’s visits, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and therapy.
- Lost Wages: If the accident causes you to miss work due to injuries, you can seek compensation for your lost income and potential future earnings if the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
- Pain and Suffering: These damages compensate you for the physical and emotional distress resulting from the accident. They are subjective and can vary significantly depending on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your quality of life.
- Property Damage: You can seek compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal property that was damaged in the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: This refers to damages awarded to a spouse or family member of the injured person for the loss of companionship, assistance, and support due to the injuries.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or intentional wrongdoing by the at-fault party, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar conduct in the future. However, punitive damages are relatively rare and typically reserved for cases of egregious misconduct.
- Wrongful Death Damages: In the unfortunate event that the accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may be entitled to damages for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering through a wrongful death claim.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: If the accident causes permanent scarring or disfigurement, you may be eligible for additional compensation to account for the physical and emotional impact of such injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: These damages are intended to compensate you for the loss of the ability to enjoy certain activities and hobbies you once loved due to your injuries.
It’s important to note that the specific damages you may be eligible for will depend on the unique circumstances of your case, including the severity of your injuries, liability factors, and the applicable laws in your jurisdiction. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to accurately assess and pursue the damages to which you may be entitled after a truck accident. Remember that at Munley Law, we offer free consultations, so don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have been injured in a truck accident.
The Crucial Importance of Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer in Abington Twp.
In the wake of a harrowing truck accident, victims often find themselves grappling with a myriad of daunting challenges—physical injuries, mounting medical bills, emotional distress, and the labyrinthine complexities of insurance claims. In such trying times, one of the most vital decisions you can make is to seek the guidance and expertise of a seasoned personal injury lawyer. Some of the ways our experienced attorneys can help you include:
Legal Expertise and Experience
Truck accident cases are unique to other types of personal injury cases, primarily due to the involvement of commercial vehicles and the extensive regulations governing the trucking industry. A truck accident lawyer possesses the specialized knowledge and experience necessary to handle these intricacies effectively. They understand the federal and state laws that govern trucking, including regulations related to driver hours, maintenance, and cargo loading. This expertise enables them to build a solid case and advocate on your behalf.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
One of the critical early steps in a truck accident case is conducting a thorough investigation. Truck accident lawyers have the resources and connections to promptly investigate the scene, gather evidence, and interview witnesses. They can work with accident reconstruction experts to piece together what happened and who may be at fault. This comprehensive approach can be instrumental in building a strong case.
Determining Liability
In truck accidents, multiple parties can be held liable, including the truck driver, trucking company, maintenance crew, or even the manufacturer in some cases. Identifying the responsible parties and holding them accountable can be a complex process. A skilled attorney can help determine liability by examining driver logs, maintenance records, and other crucial documents, ensuring that no stone is left unturned.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies, particularly those representing commercial trucking companies, can be a formidable task. Insurance adjusters are often skilled at minimizing payouts and protecting their client’s interests. A truck accident lawyer can level the playing field by advocating for your rights and negotiating with insurers to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Pursuing Maximum Compensation
The aftermath of a truck accident can be financially devastating, with extensive medical bills and potential long-term consequences. A truck accident attorney can help you pursue the maximum compensation to which you are entitled. This includes not only economic damages like medical expenses and lost income but also non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
Litigation if Necessary
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, a truck accident lawyer is prepared to take your case to court. They will advocate for your rights before a judge and jury, presenting a compelling case based on evidence and legal expertise. In the aftermath of a truck accident, hiring a truck accident lawyer isn’t just a wise choice—it’s often a necessary one. These legal professionals are your staunch advocates, ensuring that you receive the compensation and justice you deserve. With their expertise, you can focus on your recovery while they navigate the complex legal terrain, ultimately working towards a brighter, more secure future.
Why Work With Munley Law?
We know that if you’re seeking guidance in legal matters after a truck accident, you have many attorneys and many law firms to choose from. There are many things that set us apart from other Pennsylvania law firms — our proven track record of wins for our clients, the decades of experience of our attorneys, and national recognition are just a few. But above all else, what sets us apart is the fact that we are a family law firm. At Munley Law, you will not be another statistic or a name on a file. We treat all our clients like family as well, offering true support, compassion, and personal attention in addition to legal expertise. If you or a loved one is a victim of a truck accident and is seeking a personal injury attorney, look no further than Munley Law. We know selecting an Abington Township personal injury attorney is a big choice, which is why we offer free consultations with absolutely no obligation to continue afterward. Reach out today to learn how we can advocate on your behalf, fight for fair compensation, and ensure justice is served. We are ready and waiting to take your call.
