Philadelphia 18 Wheeler Accident Attorney

Accidents involving 18 wheelers often cause far more destruction than typical car accidents. Victims in Philadelphia frequently face long hospital stays, lost wages, and overwhelming medical bills. A skilled Philadelphia 18 wheeler accident attorney can protect your rights and hold negligent parties accountable.

Common Causes of 18 Wheeler Accidents

Large truck crashes usually stem from preventable factors. Common causes include:

• Driver fatigue: Federal law limits driving hours, but violations still occur.
• Distracted driving: Cell phone use, GPS adjustments, or paperwork can cause deadly mistakes.
• Speeding: Heavy trucks require more stopping distance, making speeding extremely dangerous.
• Improper maintenance: Worn brakes, defective tires, and ignored inspections lead to mechanical failures.
• Overloaded or unsecured cargo: Shifting loads create imbalance and increase rollover risks.
• Driving under the influence: Alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications impair judgment and reaction times.

Each cause requires thorough investigation to determine liability. Driver logs, electronic data recorders, inspection reports, and maintenance records must also be reviewed to identify negligence.

Injuries Resulting from 18 Wheeler Collisions

The massive force of an 18 wheeler can leave victims with catastrophic injuries. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries: Concussions, skull fractures, and long-term cognitive impairment.
• Spinal cord injuries: Paralysis, nerve damage, and chronic pain.
• Broken bones: Fractures requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
• Internal organ damage: Life-threatening injuries requiring emergency treatment.
• Severe burns: Caused by fires, explosions, or hazardous cargo.
• Wrongful death: Families left to cope with financial and emotional loss.

These injuries often lead to lifelong medical needs. Victims may require surgery, ongoing physical therapy, or in-home care, which increases financial strain.

Determining Liability in Pennsylvania

Truck accident claims involve multiple potential defendants. Liability may fall on:

• The truck driver: For negligent or reckless behavior.
• The trucking company: For unsafe hiring practices, poor training, or pushing unrealistic delivery schedules.
• Maintenance providers: For failing to perform proper repairs or inspections.
• Cargo loaders: For improperly securing or overloading freight.
• Vehicle manufacturers: For defective parts or design flaws.

Pennsylvania law requires proof that negligence directly caused the accident.

Compensation Available to Victims

Victims of 18 wheeler accidents may pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Recoverable compensation includes:

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work.
• Loss of future earning capacity: When injuries prevent a return to previous employment.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional trauma.
• Property damage: Repairs or replacement of vehicles and other damaged property.
• Wrongful death damages: Funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.

Each case requires detailed documentation to ensure the full value of damages is pursued.

Why It Is Critical to Hire a 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer

Trucking companies and their insurers respond to accidents with teams of lawyers, investigators, and adjusters. Their goal is to minimize payouts and protect profits. Victims without legal representation risk receiving far less compensation than they deserve. An experienced Philadelphia 18 wheeler accident attorney levels the playing field. Attorneys:

• Conduct independent investigations and preserve evidence before it disappears.
• Subpoena driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records.
• Work with accident reconstruction experts to prove fault.
• Negotiate aggressively with insurers to secure maximum compensation.
• Represent clients in court when settlement offers fail to cover damages.

Pennsylvania truck accident cases involve federal trucking regulations, state negligence laws, and complicated insurance coverage. Navigating these issues alone places you at a severe disadvantage.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an 18 wheeler accident, please contact our Philadelphia truck accident team today for a free consultation. Call (215) 569-0200 or message us online so we may review your case, explain your options, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.