Philadelphia Wide Turn Truck Accident Attorney

A wide turn truck accident occurs when a large vehicle, such as a tractor-trailer, makes a turn that requires a broader radius than standard vehicles. Often, the truck must swing left before making a right turn or vice versa, placing it into adjacent lanes or even into oncoming traffic. This maneuver can trap smaller vehicles, lead to sideswipes, or force cars off the road.

Common Causes of Wide Turn Accidents in Philadelphia

Several factors can contribute to wide turn truck accidents:

• Urban congestion: Philadelphia’s streets are often crowded with cars, bicycles, and pedestrians, leaving little room for error during a wide turn.
• Blind spots: Trucks have large blind zones, especially along the sides. A vehicle or person in these areas may go unnoticed by the driver.
• Driver error: Mistakes such as failing to signal, turning too sharply, or misjudging the space needed for a turn can all result in a collision.
• Lack of proper training: Inexperienced or inadequately trained drivers may not understand how to navigate tight urban turns safely.
• Impatient motorists: Drivers unaware of a truck’s need for extra space may attempt to pass on the turning side, putting themselves directly in harm’s way.

Pennsylvania Laws on Wide Turn Truck Accidents

Knowing how these laws work can help you take informed steps after the accident:

Modified Comparative Negligence

Under Pennsylvania law (42 Pa. C.S. § 7102), the state applies a modified comparative negligence standard. This means that you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident—as long as your share of the fault does not exceed 50 percent. However, the court will reduce your compensation by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

For example, if a court finds you 20 percent responsible for the accident and your total damages amount to $100,000, you would receive $80,000. If you were found 51 percent or more at fault, you would not be able to recover any compensation.

Two-Year Statute of Limitations

Pennsylvania law sets a two-year deadline for filing a personal injury claim related to a truck accident (42 Pa. C.S. § 5524). The clock starts on the date of the accident. If you fail to file your lawsuit within that window, the court will likely dismiss your case.

Pennsylvania’s No-Fault Insurance

Pennsylvania follows a choice no-fault insurance system for standard car accidents (75 Pa. C.S. § 1705), meaning you will typically turn to your own insurer first. However, victims of wide turn truck accidents can pursue third-party claims directly against the trucking company or driver if the injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold defined by law, which they often do. This includes significant disfigurement, permanent impairment, or medical expenses that exceed policy limits.

In addition to Pennsylvania laws, trucking companies and drivers must comply with federal regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules govern driver training, rest periods, truck maintenance, load limits, and more. If a trucking company violates these regulations, it can serve as powerful evidence of negligence in your case.

How a Philadelphia Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

If a wide turn truck accident in Philadelphia injured you or someone you love, an experienced attorney can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. A skilled Philadelphia Truck Accident Attorney will gather crucial evidence, identify all liable parties, and apply state and federal trucking laws to build a strong case. They will handle negotiations with insurance companies and, if needed, take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve. To arrange a free consultation today, call Rosenbaum & Associates at (215) 569-0200 or message us online.