Truck Accident on I-81 in Wilkes-Barre

Tractor trailer crash on I-81 in Wilkes-Barre – a truck accident lawyer’s perspective

A truck accident near the Highland Park Boulevard exit in Wilkes-Barre, PA this morning shut down Interstate 81 when one tractor trailer rear-ended another at around 4 a.m. One driver was trapped inside his truck and was taken to the hospital to be treated for injuries.

Wilkes-Barre truck accident lawyer and former chairman of the American Association for Justice Trucking Litigation Group Dan Munley notes the significance of the time of the crash: “Leading indicators show that at the time of the crash, the truck driver would have been at an increased risk for a fatigue-related accident.” A complete investigation will determine whether fatigue played a role in this case.

The human body operates on a 24-hour cycle, during which we are programmed to need rest at certain times of day. At regular intervals, the body’s internal clock or circadian rhythm will lower one’s body temperature and reduce alertness in order to sleep, making the hours after midnight especially dangerous for drivers.

Attorney Munley adds that both vehicles involved in the accident will need to be examined as soon as possible to determine the cause of the collision. The two trucks involved in the accident include a tractor trailer owned by Best Yet Express, a transportation company based in Gardena, CA. Best Yet Express has had vehicles out of service 10 times in the last 24 months due to various inspection violations (lower than the national average). The other vehicle is operated by Hub Group, an intermodal transportation company. A full investigation can determine if driver fatigue, mechanical failures, or other CDL rule violations contributed to the crash.

Truck drivers have dangerous jobs, and an accident involving a tractor trailer can be life-changing. Our truck accident lawyer offers free consultations to anyone hurt in an accident with a big rig so that they may learn about their legal options and get sound advice on what to do next. If you or someone you know suffered in a truck crash, call, chat, or email us today for a free and confidential consult.