Truck Accident Lawyer in Philadelphia
Involved in a truck accident? Call Cousin Benny for a free consultation.
Devastating Accidents, Life-Changing Injuries
Commercial truck accidents, including semi-truck accidents and tractor-trailer collisions, are some of the most dangerous types of crashes on the road. These vehicles weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making collisions particularly devastating. Recently a tractor-trailer crash on Interstate 78 in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, caused significant disruptions. The accident led to the closure of several lanes, highlighting just how severe these incidents can be. In 2022, Pennsylvania experienced 7,522 tractor-trailer collisions, and many of these accidents resulted in fatalities and life-changing injuries.
At Cousin Benny, we understand that being involved in a truck or semi-truck accident can leave you with life-altering injuries and long-term financial burdens. We are here to fight for the compensation you deserve and to guide you through every step of the legal process following a commercial truck collision.
How Much is Your Truck Accident Case Worth?
The severity of truck accidents means that settlements and compensation can be significant. Whether you’ve suffered spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or internal injuries, the value of your case will depend on your medical needs, lost wages, and ongoing recovery.
We use accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, and legal insights to calculate how much your semi-truck accident could be worth, and we fight tirelessly to get you maximum compensation.
How Much is Your Truck Accident Case Worth?
At Cousin Benny, we believe in a thorough investigation to uncover all contributing factors to the crash. Truck accidents can involve multiple parties, including:
- Truck drivers
- Trucking companies
- Third-party maintenance providers
- Cargo loaders
A recent tractor-trailer accident on Interstate 78 demonstrates the complexity of these cases. Investigations into such crashes can uncover whether the truck driver was fatigued, whether the truck was improperly maintained, or if the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) regulations were violated. At Cousin Benny, we take the following steps to ensure that every angle is covered:
- Gathering and analyzing black box data
- Obtaining maintenance and driver logbook records
- Working with accident reconstruction experts
If an insurance company tries to undervalue your claim or deny responsibility, we will be your strongest advocate, negotiating with the insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Cousin Benny?
We Treat Our Clients Like Family
At Cousin Benny, we understand the pain and hardship that come with a truck accident. You’re not just another case to us; you’re part of our family. We stand by our clients, ensuring they receive the personal, compassionate care they need throughout the entire legal process. Our goal is to help you rebuild your life after the trauma caused by the accident.
Free Consultations Offered
We offer free, confidential consultations so that you can speak with us without any financial risk. During your consultation, our team will review the details of your case, evaluate its strengths and weaknesses, and provide you with an honest assessment of your options.
No Fee Until You Win
At Cousin Benny, you won’t have to worry about paying upfront fees. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case. There are no hidden fees or costs.
The Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Philadelphia
Driver Fatigue
In many accidents, driver fatigue is a leading cause. Despite FMCSA regulations that limit driving hours, some truck drivers push beyond these limits to meet delivery deadlines, putting everyone on the road at risk.
Negligent Trucking Companies
Some trucking companies prioritize profit over safety. This can lead to negligent hiring, poor training of drivers, or failing to perform adequate background checks. In the Lehigh County accident, it’s crucial to determine if the company properly trained the driver or if the driver was overworked due to company pressures.
Improper Maintenance
If a truck is improperly maintained, it can lead to catastrophic accidents. For example, brake failure or tire blowouts are common causes of truck accidents. After the recent Interstate 78 crash, investigators will likely review whether the truck was properly maintained and whether maintenance logs showed any missed inspections.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Commercial truck drivers often face pressure to deliver loads on tight schedules. Speeding and reckless driving are serious factors contributing to these dangerous accidents.
What Types of Injuries Can You Suffer in a Truck Accident?
The massive size and weight of trucks mean that accidents involving tractor-trailers often result in catastrophic injuries. Spinal cord injuries, brain trauma, and other life-threatening injuries are common.
Some of the most common injuries in truck accidents include:
- Spinal cord injuries (resulting in paralysis)
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Internal injuries (such as ruptured organs or internal bleeding)
- Fractures (broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, and spine)
- Concussions and neck injuries
- Amputations and severe disfigurement
What Types of Damages Can You Recover Following a Truck Accident?
Economic damages are calculated through the sum of invoices, medical bills, lost wages, and anything else that can prove the truck crash caused you a financial loss. Economic damages from a truck accident can include, but are not limited to:
Economic Damages
These damages cover the financial costs related to the accident, including:
- Medical bills (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages from missed work
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Funeral and burial expenses (in the case of wrongful death)
Non-Economic Damages
These damages compensate for the pain and suffering, mental anguish, and other non-financial hardships caused by the accident, including:
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium (the loss of companionship)
- Permanent disfigurement or scarring
Truck Accident Statistics in Pennsylvania
Where Do Most Semi-Truck Accidents Occur in Pennsylvania?
Truck accidents are a major concern in Pennsylvania. According to PennDOT:
- 83% of all truck accidents occur on state highways.
- In 2019, there were 7,336 truck crashes, with 22 fatalities.
- Truck accidents have been on the rise in Philadelphia, and recent search data shows an increase in truck accident-related queries in the area.
What to Do If You Get Into a Truck Accident
If you’re involved in a truck accident, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your rights and ensure the best possible outcome for your case:
- Call the police immediately and file a report.
- Seek medical attention even if you feel fine; some injuries aren’t immediately visible.
- Document the scene with photos and gather evidence, including the truck driver’s info and witness contact details.
- Get a vehicle appraisal for insurance purposes.
- Avoid discussing fault with the other driver; let the police handle the investigation.
- Avoid posting on social media about the accident.
- Call a truck accident lawyer right away to protect your legal rights.
Contact the Philadelphia Truck Accident Lawyers at Cousin Benny
If you’ve been involved in a semi-truck accident in Pennsylvania or Philadelphia, Cousin Benny is here to help. We’ll guide you through the complexities of the legal process and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Pennsylvania Truck Accident FAQs
What is the Average Settlement of a Truck Accident Case?
The value of a settlement depends on the severity of the injury and damages. More serious injuries, like spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries, generally lead to higher settlements.
How Do You File a Claim for a Commercial Truck Accident in Pennsylvania?
The quickest way to file a claim is to contact a lawyer experienced in truck accident cases. At Cousin Benny, we’ll guide you through every step of the process.
How Long Do You Have to Sue Someone After a Truck Accident in Pennsylvania?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, the sooner you start, the better.
Who Is Liable in a Truck Accident: the Driver or the Trucking Company?
Liability can fall on both the driver and the trucking company, depending on the circumstances. The trucking company may be held accountable for negligent hiring, maintenance failures, or pressuring drivers to break the law.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Truck Accident Attorney in Philadelphia?
At Cousin Benny, we work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Talk With Our Philadelphia Truck Accident Lawyers Today to See How Much Your Case is Worth
Areas We Serve
- Center City, Philly
- Northeast Philadelphia
- South Philadelphia
- West Philadelphia
- North Philadelphia