Truck accidents in Pennsylvania continue to be a serious safety issue, often leading to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. While many factors can contribute to these collisions, several recurring causes stand out. Identifying these top risks is not only essential for improving road safety but also plays a vital role in determining liability when someone is injured in a crash involving a commercial truck.
This article breaks down the five most common causes of truck accidents in Pennsylvania and explores how each factor may impact a personal injury claim or lawsuit.
1. Driver Fatigue Among Commercial Truckers
Hours-of-Service Violations and Sleep Deprivation
Long-haul truck drivers are frequently under pressure to meet delivery deadlines, often pushing themselves beyond safe limits. Despite federal Hours-of-Service (HOS) regulations, which cap driving time to 11 hours per day and require rest breaks, violations still occur. Fatigued driving is particularly dangerous because it reduces alertness, slows reaction times, and increases the likelihood of driver error.
Impact on Liability
When a truck driver is sleep-deprived and causes an accident, liability may extend beyond the driver to the trucking company—especially if logbooks were falsified or rest requirements ignored. Evidence such as ELD (electronic logging device) data and surveillance footage often becomes central in proving negligence in fatigue-related crash cases.
2. Distracted Driving Behind the Wheel
More Than Just Cell Phones
Distracted driving among truck operators can take many forms—texting, GPS programming, eating, or even reaching for an object inside the cab. Given the massive size of commercial vehicles, even a few seconds of inattention can cause multi-vehicle pileups or deadly highway crashes.
Legal Ramifications in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law bans all commercial drivers from using handheld devices while driving. If it’s discovered that a trucker was distracted when the collision occurred, this often serves as powerful evidence of negligence. Plaintiffs can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages when distraction plays a role.
3. Improper Truck Maintenance and Mechanical Failure
Brakes, Tires, and Lighting Systems
Large trucks require frequent inspections and regular maintenance. Faulty brakes, underinflated tires, broken lights, or worn-out steering components can quickly lead to disaster. According to the FMCSA, mechanical issues are cited in approximately 10% of truck-related crashes nationally.
When the Trucking Company is to Blame
Trucking companies are legally responsible for keeping their fleets in roadworthy condition. If an investigation shows that maintenance schedules were skipped or repair records were falsified, liability could fall squarely on the company or third-party mechanics. In Pennsylvania, state and federal regulations governing maintenance are frequently examined during accident litigation.
4. Unsafe Lane Changes and Blind Spot Errors
Size and Visibility Challenges
Commercial trucks have larger blind spots—also known as “no-zones”—than passenger vehicles. When drivers fail to properly signal or check these blind spots before merging or changing lanes, serious side-impact crashes and rollovers can occur. In dense traffic conditions, these errors are especially common on I-76, I-95, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Determining Driver Negligence
Dash cam footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction are often used to show that a trucker changed lanes unsafely. If a driver failed to use mirrors, didn’t signal, or drifted between lanes, it could be a direct violation of Pennsylvania’s traffic safety statutes, strengthening a personal injury claim.
5. Overloaded or Improperly Secured Cargo
Weight Limits and Load Shifting
Pennsylvania enforces strict rules regarding truck weight and cargo distribution. Overloaded trucks not only put extra pressure on braking systems and tires but can also increase the risk of jackknife accidents. Likewise, unbalanced or improperly secured loads can shift suddenly, causing the truck to tip or swerve uncontrollably.
Who Is Liable for Cargo-Related Accidents?
In accidents involving cargo issues, fault may rest with the driver, the trucking company, or a third-party loading service. Investigators typically review bills of lading, weigh station records, and driver logs to determine if safety standards were violated. Failure to comply with cargo regulations can lead to both civil liability and federal penalties.
Why These Causes Matter in Pennsylvania Truck Injury Claims
Each of these top causes not only contributes to the high rate of truck accidents in Pennsylvania but also plays a pivotal role in how liability is assessed. Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning injured victims can recover damages even if they were partially at fault—so long as they are less than 51% responsible.
This makes clear documentation, expert testimony, and prompt legal action essential. Whether it’s examining ELD records for fatigue, cell phone use logs for distraction, or maintenance reports for mechanical failure, strong evidence helps victims pursue fair compensation.
Conclusion
Truck accidents in Pennsylvania are often preventable, with many traced back to human error or regulatory violations. From driver fatigue and distraction to mechanical issues and cargo mishandling, the top causes all point to lapses in safety that can lead to devastating consequences. Victims of these accidents may be entitled to significant compensation, but proving fault requires a clear strategy and solid legal representation. Understanding these common causes is the first step toward protecting your rights and holding the appropriate parties accountable.
Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away
Navigating Pennsylvania truck accidents can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced Truck Accident Lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.
Contact us now for a free legal review.