Rollover truck accidents in Pennsylvania are complex legal cases that require a thorough understanding of the various parties involved. These accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, property damage, and even fatalities, so it is vital to identify all the parties that could be responsible for your injuries.
Victims of rollover truck accidents can get justice for their damages by working with our experienced team, which specializes in these devastating types of accidents. We can investigate your rollover accident to identify all the parties that played a role in causing the accident. Whether it is the driver, the trucking company, or another party, we will leave no stone unturned when determining the parties to name in your lawsuit. In many cases, the defendants are large corporations with legal resources to spare. With our help, you can overcome these challenges to get the compensation you deserve.
For a free case assessment, speak with our Philadelphia truck accident lawyers at The Reiff Law Firm today at (215) 709-6940.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Rollover Truck Accident in Pennsylvania?
Rollover accidents involve a truck flipping onto its side or roof, a phenomenon frequently attributed to factors like high speed, sharp turns, improper loading, and mechanical failures. The consequences can be devastating, often ending in fatalities. In Pennsylvania, where highways like the I-76, I-80, and I-95 are vital transport arteries, these accidents are not uncommon. Fortunately, our Pennsylvania truck accident attorneys can help you hold the liable party accountable. The following are those typically sued for rollover accidents in Pennsylvania:
The Truck Driver
Rollover accidents can have catastrophic consequences, and the person behind the wheel is usually the first to be scrutinized when it comes to determining liability. A number of factors can contribute to a rollover accident, including but not limited to speeding, driving under the influence, fatigue, and distracted driving.
The driver’s actions or inactions can play a pivotal role in determining liability, and their behavior leading up to the accident will be closely examined. For example, if the driver was speeding or driving under the influence, they might be found to be at fault for the accident.
On the other hand, if the driver obeys traffic laws and drives responsibly, liability might be placed on other factors, such as road conditions or the actions of other drivers. Ultimately, the driver’s behavior and actions will be a key factor in determining liability in a rollover accident.
The Trucking Company
When a trucking accident occurs, the trucking company might be held responsible under the legal doctrine of “respondeat superior.” This doctrine states that employers are responsible for the actions of their employees while they are performing their job duties. Therefore, if an employee’s actions cause an accident while they are working, the employer might be held liable for any resulting damages.
Moreover, the trucking company might also be held responsible if it is found that it failed to follow safety regulations, neglected routine maintenance schedules, or imposed unrealistic delivery expectations on its employees. Neglecting these aspects might have caused or contributed to the accident, and as a result, the trucking company could be held liable for any damages or injuries that occurred.
The Loading Company
Truck rollover accidents are often caused by improper loading practices. One of the primary reasons for this is when the cargo is unevenly distributed or not properly secured, which can seriously impact the vehicle’s stability and lead to rollovers.
If another entity, such as a third-party logistics provider or a cargo loading company, was responsible for loading the truck, they could potentially be held liable for negligence that contributed to the accident. It is crucial to identify the root cause of the accident to determine which parties might be responsible, including those involved in the loading process. This can help determine if proper safety protocols were followed leading up to the accident.
The Truck’s Manufacturer
In the event of a rollover accident, truck or trailer manufacturers might be held responsible if it is found that the accident occurred because of a defect in the vehicle, such as faulty brakes, tire failure, or issues with the truck’s design that make it more susceptible to rolling over. Such incidents can lead to product liability claims that can be especially complex and challenging to resolve.
Successfully establishing a link between the defect and the accident typically requires a thorough investigation and the involvement of expert testimony. It is crucial to identify any manufacturing defects to determine if the manufacturer is liable for damages incurred.
Maintenance Providers
It is extremely important to carry out regular maintenance of commercial trucks to ensure their safe operation on the roads. Failure to perform necessary maintenance or repairs can lead to a variety of mechanical failures that could cause a rollover and result in serious accidents, injuries, or even fatalities. It is essential to keep the truck in optimal condition, including checking the brakes, tires, steering, and suspension systems, as well as other critical components.
Additionally, if a third-party service provider was negligent in maintaining the truck, they could be held accountable for any resulting accidents. They must follow the industry standards and guidelines for maintenance and repairs to ensure that the truck is in good working order. If they fail to do so, and their negligence leads to an accident, they could be held responsible for any damages or injuries incurred.
Government Entities
Road conditions can contribute to rollover accidents in certain cases. Poorly designed or maintained roads, lack of adequate signage, or ineffective traffic control measures can all lead to dangerous driving situations.
When these conditions cause an accident, the government entities responsible for road maintenance and design might be held liable. However, filing a claim against a government body involves specific procedural rules and limitations.
What Typically Causes Rollover Truck Accidents to Happen in Pennsylvania?
Driver error is a predominant factor in rollover truck accidents. This encompasses a broad range of mistakes, including but not limited to speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, and impaired driving because of alcohol or drugs.
Speeding, in particular, has been identified as a significant contributor, being involved in a considerable percentage of rollover crashes. The physics of high-speed travel exacerbates the risk of a rollover when a truck makes sharp turns or sudden maneuvers, underscoring the importance of adhering to speed limits and exercising caution.
The way cargo is loaded onto a truck also plays a critical role in maintaining the vehicle’s stability. Overloaded or unevenly distributed cargo can shift during transport, especially during sharp turns or sudden stops, increasing the risk of a rollover.
Proper loading practices, adherence to weight limits, and securing cargo are essential measures to prevent such accidents. The responsibility for safe loading practices often extends beyond the driver to include employers, contractors, and loading personnel, highlighting the need for comprehensive training and adherence to safety standards.
Our Pennsylvania Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
Contact The Reiff Law Firm at (215) 709-6940 for your free case review with our Pennsylvania personal injury attorneys.
