Hit By a Truck or Tractor Trailer?

Victims of tractor trailer accidents may be entitled to substantial compensation, depending on the severity of the crash and the nature of the injuries sustained. At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we pursue all avenues of recovery to ensure our clients are fully compensated. This often includes:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Emotional distress
• Wrongful death benefits (for families who’ve lost a loved one)

We work with financial and medical experts to project the long-term costs associated with your injury, especially if it has altered your ability to work or care for your family. We understand how insurers operate, and we don’t let them undervalue your claim. Our goal is always full and fair compensation- and we don’t stop until we achieve it.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) play a critical role in tractor trailer accident cases. These laws govern nearly every aspect of commercial trucking, from driver rest periods and maximum working hours to vehicle maintenance and load weight limits. When a trucking company or driver violates these regulations- and that violation contributes to your accident- it can establish clear negligence.

For example, if a driver exceeded their legal hours of service and caused a fatigue-related crash, the trucking company could be held liable. Similarly, poor truck maintenance, improper load distribution, or failure to conduct required inspections can all point to liability. At our firm, we meticulously review driving logs, GPS records, ELD data, inspection reports, and more to uncover any violations. These details often make or break a case. Our deep understanding of these rules gives us a strategic edge in proving negligence and maximizing your recovery.

Liability in a tractor trailer accident isn’t always limited to just the driver. In fact, multiple parties may share responsibility. At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we conduct thorough investigations to identify every potentially liable party, which may include:

• The truck driver, if their negligence, fatigue, distraction, or impairment caused the accident.
• The trucking company, for poor hiring practices, lack of training, or pushing drivers to violate safety regulations.
• The cargo company, if the trailer was improperly loaded or secured.
• The truck or parts manufacturer, if a mechanical defect contributed to the crash.
• Maintenance providers, if regular inspections and repairs were not properly performed.

Holding the right parties accountable often requires swift investigation, subpoenaing of internal records, and expert analysis. We’ve built our reputation by doing exactly that- and delivering justice for our clients.

After a serious truck accident, your health and safety are top priorities. Seek immediate medical attention- even if you feel okay initially. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and documentation is crucial for your case. If possible, collect evidence at the scene, including photos, witness information, and the truck’s license plate and company name. But do not speak with the trucking company or their insurer without legal representation.

Call Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C. as soon as you’re able. The earlier we get involved, the better we can protect crucial evidence and your legal rights. Trucking companies often send teams to the scene right away to gather evidence in their favor- you deserve someone doing the same for you. We’ll take over all communication, initiate our own investigation, and advise you every step of the way. Don’t go it alone- let us handle the heavy lifting.

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death cases, it’s also two years from the date of death. However, waiting too long can significantly weaken your case. Over time, critical evidence can be lost, memories fade, and witness availability decreases.

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we urge accident victims to contact us as early as possible. This not only ensures compliance with all legal deadlines but allows us to immediately secure evidence such as surveillance footage, driver logs, and maintenance records- all of which can be pivotal in proving negligence. In cases involving government entities or public roads, different notice periods may apply, making prompt action even more important.

Bottom line: the sooner we start building your case, the stronger it will be. Don’t delay- your future depends on it.

Trucking accidents often involve interstate commerce, meaning they may cross state lines in terms of jurisdiction and legal complexity. But don’t worry- we’ve handled these situations many times. Whether the driver is from another state, or the trucking company is based elsewhere, we can still pursue a claim here in Pennsylvania, where the crash occurred.

Our firm is well-versed in multi-jurisdictional litigation, federal trucking laws, and the nuances of commercial transportation regulations. We coordinate with law enforcement, insurance carriers, and courts across state lines when necessary. Whether your case requires cooperation with federal investigators or accessing out-of-state trucking records, we’re prepared.

You should never let the out-of-state status of the driver or company deter you from pursuing justice. At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we handle the complexity so you can focus on healing.

Many clients ask us whether their case will end up in court- and the honest answer is: it depends. Most tractor trailer accident claims are settled out of court, particularly when the case is well-prepared, and the evidence is compelling. However, some cases do proceed to trial, especially when the trucking company or its insurer refuses to offer fair compensation.

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation sends a clear message to the opposing side: we’re not afraid to fight in court if necessary. In fact, our seasoned trial attorneys have successfully litigated high-stakes trucking cases, securing verdicts worth millions for our clients.

Our thorough case preparation often leads to better settlement offers. But if court becomes necessary, rest assured- we’ll be fully ready to represent your best interests before a judge or jury.

The sheer size and weight of tractor trailers make these accidents exponentially more dangerous than regular car crashes. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds- compared to a typical 3,000-pound passenger vehicle. When collisions happen at highway speeds, the forces involved can be catastrophic. Common injuries include traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, amputations, internal bleeding, and severe orthopedic injuries.

What’s more, trucks have larger blind spots, longer stopping distances, and a higher likelihood of rollover or jackknife accidents. Factors like driver fatigue, improperly secured cargo, or mechanical failure only add to the risk.

These cases also tend to be more complex legally, involving multiple layers of responsibility and aggressive insurance tactics. That’s why victims need attorneys like us who not only understand the danger but know exactly how to fight for justice in the face of it.

Experience, dedication, and results- that’s what sets us apart. At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we’ve spent decades advocating for Lancaster’s injury victims, including those affected by devastating tractor trailer crashes. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients and have built a reputation for being aggressive, compassionate, and relentless in pursuit of justice.

We handle everything- from investigation to negotiation to trial- with the utmost professionalism and care. Our attorneys know how to navigate the trucking industry’s complex web of rules and hold negligent parties accountable. And we never collect a fee unless we win your case.

When your future is on the line, don’t settle for just any law firm. Choose a team that treats your case like their own family’s. Call 717-394-3004– we’re ready to fight for you, 24/7.