When a serious collision happens on the road, the size and weight of a commercial truck can turn an ordinary accident into a life-changing event. But beyond the physical damage, victims soon discover another challenge: pursuing a legal claim after a truck accident is far more complex than handling a standard car crash case.
This is where a truck accident lawyer becomes essential—especially one with experience navigating both Pennsylvania’s personal injury laws and federal trucking regulations. At May Herr & Grosh, a respected law firm in Lancaster, PA, the legal team understands the unique challenges truck accident victims face—and they know how to overcome them.
1. More Severe Injuries, Higher Stakes
Tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, and other large commercial vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. When they collide with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Victims may suffer spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or long-term disabilities.
The severity of these injuries leads to higher medical bills, longer recovery periods, and greater emotional distress. Insurance companies are more likely to fight large claims—making the guidance of a truck accident lawyer critical to securing fair compensation.
2. Multiple Liable Parties
In a typical car accident, liability usually falls on one or both drivers. But in truck accidents, things aren’t so straightforward. Responsibility may lie with:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- A third-party maintenance provider
- The company that loaded the cargo
- The truck manufacturer
Determining liability requires a thorough investigation. A skilled truck accident lawyer, like those at May Herr & Grosh, knows how to uncover all responsible parties and hold them accountable.
3. Complex Regulations and Industry Standards
Truck drivers and commercial carriers are subject to strict regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These include rules about driver hours, vehicle inspections, weight limits, and drug testing. Violations of these rules can be crucial evidence in a legal claim.
A lawyer experienced in truck accident law will know how to analyze driver logs, inspection records, and black box data to build a strong case—something a general personal injury attorney may overlook.
4. Aggressive Defense Tactics from Trucking Companies
Commercial carriers and their insurers often have legal teams ready to respond the moment an accident happens. Their goal? Minimize payouts. They may:
- Offer quick, lowball settlements
- Shift the blame to the victim
- Destroy or hide evidence
An experienced truck accident lawyer works quickly to preserve critical evidence and protect your rights from day one.
5. Bigger, More Complicated Insurance Policies
Commercial trucks carry large insurance policies—sometimes with multiple layers of coverage. While this may seem like a good thing, it also means your lawyer needs to navigate complex insurance structures and deal with seasoned adjusters. Without legal help, victims are often underpaid or denied altogether.
Local Knowledge, Proven Experience
At May Herr & Grosh, our legal team has spent years fighting for accident victims across Lancaster County and Central Pennsylvania. We understand the intricacies of truck accident claims and combine local insight with legal strength to help our clients recover what they deserve.
Final Thoughts
A truck accident claim is not just a bigger version of a car accident case—it’s an entirely different legal challenge. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck collision, don’t face it alone. Working with a seasoned truck accident lawyer, like those at May Herr & Grosh, gives you the best chance at full financial recovery and peace of mind.