FAQ Lancaster Commercial Vehicle Lawyer

FAQ Lancaster Commercial Vehicle Lawyer

1. What qualifies as a “commercial vehicle” in Pennsylvania?
A commercial vehicle is generally one used for business purposes, such as transporting goods or passengers for compensation, or a vehicle that exceeds certain weight or size thresholds under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. In Pennsylvania, this category typically includes large trucks, delivery vans, buses, and similar vehicles.
At Metzger Wickersham, we evaluate whether a vehicle meets these legal definitions, as this determination directly impacts the regulations that apply and your legal rights.

2. If I’m injured in an accident involving a commercial vehicle, what makes the case different?
Commercial vehicle accidents are often more complex than standard car crashes. They may involve multiple liable parties—such as the driver, the trucking or logistics company, a maintenance provider, or a vehicle or parts manufacturer—and are governed by strict federal and state regulations, along with higher insurance coverage limits.
The attorneys at Metzger Wickersham identify all potentially responsible parties and navigate the added regulatory complexities on your behalf.

3. How soon should I contact a lawyer after a commercial vehicle accident?
You should contact an attorney as soon as possible. Critical evidence—such as driver logs, electronic data recorders (“black box” data), and inspection or maintenance records—can be lost or destroyed quickly.
At Metzger Wickersham, we act promptly to preserve evidence and guide you through each step of the legal process to protect your claim.

4. Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Our attorneys work diligently to minimize any assigned fault and pursue the maximum recovery available to you.

5. What types of compensation are available in a commercial vehicle accident case?
Compensation may include current and future medical expenses, lost wages and diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage, and, in wrongful death cases, financial and emotional losses suffered by surviving family members.
Metzger Wickersham carefully evaluates all applicable damages and seeks full and fair compensation for every client.

6. What laws and regulations govern commercial vehicles?
Commercial vehicles are subject to extensive regulations, including size and weight limits, inspection and maintenance requirements, commercial driver’s license (CDL) standards, hours-of-service rules, drug and alcohol testing, and minimum insurance requirements. These rules are enforced by the FMCSA and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
Our legal team reviews compliance with these regulations to strengthen your case.

7. Can the company that owns the commercial vehicle be held liable?
Yes. Liability may extend beyond the driver to include the trucking or logistics company, the vehicle owner, maintenance providers, or even manufacturers of defective parts.
Metzger Wickersham conducts thorough investigations to identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable.

8. Is there a statute of limitations for filing a commercial vehicle accident claim in Lancaster, PA?
Yes. In Pennsylvania, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date of the accident.
Metzger Wickersham ensures your claim is filed on time, as missing the deadline can result in losing your right to recover compensation.

9. What if the commercial vehicle company’s insurance offers a quick settlement?
Insurance companies often attempt to settle claims quickly—sometimes before the full extent of injuries or long-term losses is known—and these early offers may be far less than the claim’s true value.
Our attorneys review and negotiate settlement offers to ensure you do not accept less than you deserve.

10. How much does it cost to hire Metzger Wickersham?
In most commercial vehicle and personal injury cases, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront fees, and we are only paid if we successfully recover compensation for you.
We provide clear and transparent communication regarding fees and costs from the very beginning.