Truck Accident Attorney

Wilkes-Barre, Sugarloaf and Hazleton, Pennsylvania

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are there differences between truck accidents and accidents involving only autos?
• Who regulates trucking companies?
• Are there federal limits to the number of hours truck drivers may drive?
• Who can I bring a legal claim against in a truck accident?
• What types of damages can I recover for my truck accident?

Are there differences between truck accidents and accidents involving only autos?

Yes, cases involving truck accidents have involve additional factors. The same laws regarding negligence apply. However, the law has special vehicle codes that pertain specifically to commercial truck drivers and trucking companies. Trucks must also meet special licensing and training requirements that other vehicles on the road do not have. These laws and requirements typically make it harder for truckers and trucking companies to defend against your claim.

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Who regulates trucking companies?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is responsible for setting up the regulations and rules that commercial trucks and their companies must follow while on the road. The reason that there is a separate regulatory body for trucks is to make highways and interstates safer for all motorists when trucks are riding these roads.

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Are there federal limits to the number of hours truck drivers may drive?

Yes, there has been a federal law in place since 1939 that restricts the number of hours a trucker may operate the truck. The idea is to ensure that truckers are getting enough rest so they can drive their trucks without being so tired they are in danger of falling asleep at the wheel. Similar to the goals of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration discussed above, these laws are in place to make the highways safer.

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Who can I bring a legal claim against in a truck accident?

Whoever was at fault can be sued. This can be both people and companies. Whoever caused or contributed to the cause of the accident can be named in a lawsuit, including:

• The manufacturer of the tires
• The manufacturer of the vehicle
• The owner of the truck
• The owners of public or private property who contributed to the cause of the accident through their negligence (carelessness)
• The shipper whose company was using the truck for its shipment
• The truck driver
• The trucking company

Any other person or company that contributed in any way to the cause of the truck accident may also be sued.

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What types of damages can I recover for my truck accident?

In Pennsylvania, you can recover several types of damages in a person injury case, including:

• Economic losses such as damaged property
• Loss of earning ability
• Lost wage income
• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering

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If a loved one died as a result of a truck accident, you may be able to recover loss of consortium (loss of the relationship of a loved one)from a wrongful death claim.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, please contact the truck accident attorneys at The Falvello Law Firm, serving clients in Hazleton, Sugarloaf, Wilkes-Barre, Berwick, and Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.