When you are involved in a truck accident, everything changes instantly. One moment, you are heading to work, dropping the kids off at school, or running errands, and then suddenly, you are facing a totaled vehicle, medical bills, and a long list of unanswered questions. It is overwhelming, especially when you are hurt and unsure of your next steps.
That is why choosing the right lawyer is crucial. You want someone who knows the complexities of truck accident law and sees you as more than a case number. At Munley Law, our attorneys bring decades of experience in complex personal injury cases with a small-town approach to client care. If you or a loved one is in a truck accident, here are some of the most important questions to ask a Pennsylvania truck accident lawyer and the answers you should expect.
1. Do You Have Experience Handling Truck Accident Cases in Pennsylvania?
Not all personal injury lawyers have experience with truck accidents, which are often much more complicated than regular car crashes. These cases often involve severe injuries and multiple parties, such as the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and insurers, and require a thorough understanding of federal trucking regulations and Pennsylvania law.
- Why this matters: Trucking companies and their insurers are aggressive and well-defended. You need an equally experienced legal team that can handle the pressure and uncover negligence in driver logs, maintenance records, and company practices. You need a lawyer with proven experience in trucking litigation to protect your rights and recover full compensation.
- What to listen for: Munley Law has been recognized as Pennsylvania’s leading truck accident law firm for decades. Our founder revolutionized how law firms litigate truck accident cases, and our firm developed many of the techniques attorneys use today. We frequently teach other lawyers at national legal conferences and have held leadership roles in the American Association for Justice Trucking Litigation Group.
2. What Kind of Compensation Can I Expect?
While no lawyer can promise a specific dollar amount, a qualified attorney can give you a realistic idea of the kinds of damages you may be entitled to pursue. These can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of earning capacity, and more.
- Why this matters: Understanding your case’s potential value helps you make informed decisions about settlement offers and the legal process ahead.
- What to listen for: An experienced lawyer will explain how the value of your claim depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, your medical prognosis, how much time you missed from work, and whether the truck driver or company was clearly at fault. We will walk you through all of that, patiently and honestly, so you never feel like you are in the dark.
3. Who Will Be Handling My Case?
You may rarely hear from the lawyer you originally met at some larger firms. You deserve to know who your point of contact is and whether the attorney you meet with is working on your case.
- Why this matters: You trust someone with your physical, emotional, and financial recovery. Knowing they will be there for you during the consultation and legal process is essential.
- What to listen for: At Munley Law, we prioritize personal attention. When you call, we answer. When you have questions, we explain. And when you are worried about how your case is going, we make time for you. We are not just your lawyers. We are your neighbors, and we treat you like family.
4. How Will You Investigate My Truck Accident?
Truck accidents require a detailed investigation. A lawyer should explain how they will gather critical evidence, such as the truck’s black box data, driver logs, maintenance records, police reports, and witness statements.
- Why this matters: The earlier the investigation begins, the better your chances of preserving key evidence that could significantly impact your case.
- What to listen for: Look for a lawyer who acts quickly and has access to trusted investigators and expert witnesses. At our firm, we hit the ground running. We have handled enough of these cases to know precisely what to look for and how to protect your rights from day one.
5. What Are the Legal Deadlines I Need to Know About?
Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, evidence can disappear, and witness memories can fade much sooner than that.
- Why this matters: It is wise to understand your legal deadlines early on, even if you are unsure whether you want to file a lawsuit.
- What to listen for: A good lawyer will inform you of the statute of limitations and explain other critical deadlines related to insurance claims, preservation letters, and potential third-party liability. We keep track of the timeline, so you do not have to worry.
6. What Will This Cost Me?
Most personal injury lawyers, including ours, work on a contingency fee basis. That means you do not pay us unless we win your case.
- Why this matters: After a serious accident, you are likely already dealing with mounting medical bills and lost income. You should not have to worry about paying legal fees upfront.
- What to listen for: Your attorney should explain the fee structure clearly, including any costs that may be deducted from your settlement or verdict. We are always upfront about our fees and do not get paid unless you do.
7. What Is Your Approach to Settling vs. Going to Trial?
Not all cases go to trial, and many are resolved through settlement. However, your lawyer’s willingness and ability to take your case to court can affect how seriously the other side takes your claim.
- Why this matters: Some lawyers push for a quick settlement even if it is not in your best interest. Others prepare every case as if it is going to trial because that is how you get the best results.
- What to listen for: We will never pressure you to settle for less than you deserve. We prepare every case thoroughly and are always ready to go to court if that is what it takes to get justice.
8. How Will You Keep Me Informed?
Communication is everything when you are going through a legal process. You should not have to chase down your lawyer to determine what is happening.
- Why this matters: Clear communication builds trust. When you trust your lawyer, you can focus on healing.
- What to listen for: We believe in informing our clients at every stage. That means regular updates, returning calls, and being available to answer your questions about your case, recovery, or what to expect next.
You Deserve Legal Help from Qualified Attorneys Who Make You Feel Comfortable
Knowing what questions to ask a truck accident lawyer can feel overwhelming. However, asking the right questions now can help you find an experienced and genuinely caring legal advocate.
Munley Law combines national-level truck accident experience with the personal touch of a hometown law firm. Our Pennsylvania truck accident attorneys are recognized leaders in this field, but we never lose sight of you. We fight tirelessly for our clients and treat everyone walking through our doors like neighbors and friends. If you have been hurt in a truck accident, do not go through it alone. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you get justice.
