Philadelphia Tow Trucks Accident Attorney
Tow trucks play a vital role on Pennsylvania roads, but when operated carelessly, they can cause serious and sometimes fatal accidents. A Philadelphia tow truck accident lawyer can help you pursue full compensation and hold the responsible parties accountable if you or a loved one has been harmed.
Common Causes of Tow Truck Accidents
Tow truck accidents can happen in heavy traffic, on highways, in parking lots, or during roadside recoveries. Common causes include:
- Driver Negligence: Speeding, distracted driving, or failure to yield.
- Improper Loading: If a towed vehicle is not properly secured, it may detach or shift.
- Mechanical Failure: Brake issues, steering malfunctions, or worn tires.
- Inadequate Training: Tow truck drivers must be trained to operate specialized equipment safely and handle emergency situations.
- Reckless Operation in Traffic: Aggressive driving, sudden stops, or failure to use lights or signals.
- Blind Spots and Wide Turns: Tow trucks have large blind spots and require more space to maneuver, increasing crash risk.
- Failure to Follow Roadside Safety Protocols: Operators who fail to use cones, flares, or flashing lights create hazards for passing traffic.
Victims often suffer serious injuries such as spinal cord damage, head trauma, internal injuries, broken bones, and in some cases, these collisions are fatal.
Who Is Liable in a Tow Truck Accident in Philadelphia?
Determining who is responsible for a tow truck accident depends on the specific circumstances and the parties involved. Potentially liable parties include:
Tow Truck Drivers
If the driver acted carelessly, violated traffic laws, or operated the truck unsafely, they may be personally liable.
Tow Truck Companies
Employers are often responsible for their drivers’ actions and may also be liable for negligent hiring, training, or maintenance practices.
Vehicle Owners
If a private party hired the tow company and failed to provide safe instructions or equipment, they may share liability.
Maintenance Providers
If poor maintenance or defective repairs contributed to the crash.
Truck or Equipment Manufacturers
If a defective part, such as a hydraulic lift or safety latch, malfunctioned, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability law.
In some cases, multiple parties share fault. Pennsylvania uses a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation as long as you are found less than 51 percent at fault, but your recovery is reduced by your share of liability.
How a Philadelphia Tow Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
Tow truck accident claims are complex. An experienced Philadelphia trucking accident attorney will:
- Investigate the Crash: Gather evidence such as surveillance footage, black box data, witness statements, and police reports.
- Determine Liability: Identify all responsible parties, including drivers, employers, or third-party contractors.
- Preserve and Analyze Evidence: Secure maintenance logs, training records, and load documentation.
- Handle Insurance Companies: Negotiate aggressively to protect your interests and avoid unfair settlement offers.
- Coordinate Expert Testimony: Work with accident reconstructionists and industry experts to support your claim.
- Represent You in Court: If settlement negotiations fail, your lawyer will present a strong case at trial.
Contact a Philadelphia Tow Truck Accident Lawyer Today
Tow truck accidents can change lives in an instant. If you or a loved one was injured, call (215) 569-0200 or contact Rosenbaum & Associates online for a free consultation with a dedicated Philadelphia Tow Truck Accident Lawyer.