Pittsburgh Commercial Vehicle and Bus Accident Lawyer
An accident involving a commercial vehicle – a heavy truck, tractor trailer, bus, or another vehicle used to transport goods or passengers – can cause catastrophic personal injury and even wrongful death. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, in 2005 alone, there were 5,547 fatalities and 106,276 injuries caused by truck and bus accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial vehicle accident, you may be able to obtain compensation for your injuries by filing a bus accident lawsuit. The experienced accident attorneys at our Pittsburgh law firm can help. Our team is experienced in the legal issues surrounding commercial vehicle accident injuries and will provide the experienced and dedicated legal representation you need.
Pennsylvania Truck Accident Attorney
In addition to handling the road and weather conditions and traffic hazards facing every motorist, drivers of commercial vehicles and trucks face several additional challenges including mechanical failure and fatigue.
Brake failure common cause of truck accidents
Brakes are one of the most critical components in the safe operation of a commercial vehicle, since the vehicle’s sheer size greatly increases its stopping distance and turning radius. However, a disturbing number of commercial vehicles are on the road with faulty brakes. In a 2008 roadside brake inspection campaign by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Association (CVSA), of the 20,810 vehicle inspections performed, 4,212 vehicles (20 percent) were placed out-of-service for either brake adjustment or brake component defects.
Unsafe driving practices and driver errors
When the driver of a commercial vehicle engages in unsafe driving practices, including reckless, inattentive, or aggressive driving, the risk of an accident increases exponentially. For example, the Office of Motor Carrier Research reports that of all fatal large truck crashes in 2001, 21 percent involved speeding. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Transportation reports that, in 2003, an estimated 0.2 percent of commercial vehicle drivers consumed alcohol while performing their duties.
Other causes of commercial vehicle collisions
Other common factors in commercial vehicle accidents include driver fatigue, driver distraction, unsafe road conditions, and unsafe driving by other motorists.
Whatever the cause of a commercial vehicle accident, if the accident was the result of another party’s actions or negligence, victims may pursue damages for their injuries. If you would like more information on filing a bus accident lawsuit, our attorneys can help. Serving Pittsburgh and the rest of Pennsylvania, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation on our clients’ behalf. Contact Raizman Frischman Matzus & Rizza, P.C. to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Commercial Vehicle Accident Damages
Individuals who are injured in a commercial vehicle accident may file a lawsuit to obtain damages for their injuries. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, severity of the injuries, and other factors, compensation may cover the costs of the victim’s medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost income, diminished earning potential, loss of enjoyment of life, and other losses.
Contact Our Pennsylvania Bus Accident Attorneys
If you have suffered personal injury in a commercial vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, pain, and suffering. You need to be aware of your rights as an accident victim and of the steps involved in filing a bus accident or commercial vehicle lawsuit. The attorneys at our Pittsburgh firm, also serving Greensburg, Cranberry Township, and surrounding Pennsylvania areas, can help. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our experienced Pennsylvania bus accident lawyers, contact Raizman Frischman Matzus & Rizza, P.C. today.
