In 2020, PENNDOT reported 301 accidents involving trucks in Bucks County. Obviously, truck accidents can be particularly dangerous because of the difference in size and weight between the truck and another vehicle. Accordingly, in 2020 reported accidents, there were several fatalities and almost 150 injuries. While updated statistics are not readily available, there seems to be more and more commercial and construction truck traffic wherever you drive in Bucks County. And with more truck traffic, comes the likelihood of more accidents.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Most of the reported truck accidents in Bucks County where the truck driver was at fault had three root causes: (1) speeding, (2) following too closely, and (3) unsafe lane changes. While each accident is unique and must be investigated to determine who was at fault, the involvement of a truck in a motor vehicle accident generally requires additional steps to identify all contributing causes to the accident. Commercial drivers and vehicles are subject to a host of state and federal regulations that must be reviewed to determine whether a violation may have contributed to the accident. Perhaps the driver did not get the mandated number of hours of sleep and was drowsy. Or the vehicle’s lights may not have been working properly. Everything must be considered.
Use Caution
When driving, keep in mind it is more difficult for the truck driver to see you than for you to see them. A truck also cannot stop or turn as quickly. Use extra caution when approaching or passing a truck A brief honk of the horn or flashing of lights as you pass will alert the driver of your presence when you may be in a blind spot.
Don’t Delay
Most large trucking and construction companies have their own risk management personnel who can be onsite within minutes of an accident. If you are able, take as many pictures of the accident scene and the vehicles involved as you can while you are still there. Be sure to write down the names, phone numbers and email addresses of anyone who identifies themselves as a witness. Call the police.
Engaging our office as soon as possible after an accident is critical to your success in seeking compensation for your injuries. We will have the accident scene photographed and videotaped, have measurements taken, and notify the trucking company of its obligation to preserve all evidence in its possession. We work with top accident reconstruction experts who can reassemble all the evidence and create drawings, diagrams and videos that will show a jury exactly how the truck driver’s negligence caused the accident.
The right lawyer can protect your legal rights, navigate this complicated process, and fight to get the compensation that you deserve. This is what we do – we focus on your case so you can focus on getting better. This is our way of giving you peace of mind. So call us if you have been hurt in a truck accident.
