Over the past several weeks, Pennsylvania and surrounding states have seen a string of tractor-trailer incidents—some bizarre, some tragic, but all highlighting the dangers posed by large commercial trucks. From cargo spills that shut down highways to deadly high-speed collisions, these accidents remind us just how devastating truck crashes can be for everyday drivers.
Recent Tractor-Trailer Accidents
1. Tractor-Trailer Hanging Off Embankment
On Interstate 81 in Dauphin and Lebanon counties, a tractor-trailer went partially over an embankment, forcing a full closure of the northbound lanes for hours during rush hour. While this accident didn’t cause serious injuries, it snarled traffic for miles and could have ended much worse if vehicles below had been struck.
2. Hot Dog Spill on I-83
In Shrewsbury, a mechanical failure caused a tractor-trailer to crash and spill thousands of hot dogs across the highway. Cleanup required heavy equipment, and four people suffered non-life-threatening injuries. While quirky in the headlines, this crash underscores how mechanical breakdowns and unsecured cargo can put motorists at risk.
3. Fatal Collision in Franklin County
The most tragic of recent events occurred on I-81 in Franklin County, where a passenger vehicle collided with a tractor-trailer at high speed. The crash resulted in at least one fatality and serves as a stark reminder of the catastrophic consequences when smaller vehicles are involved in accidents with 18-wheelers.
Why Tractor-Trailer Accidents Are So Dangerous
Tractor-trailers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, making them extremely dangerous in collisions. Common causes of these accidents include:
Driver fatigue (common in long-haul trucking)
Mechanical failure due to poor maintenance
Unsecured cargo leading to roadway hazards
Excessive speed or reckless driving
Blind spots that make smaller vehicles invisible
When these factors combine, even a momentary mistake can cause life-changing injuries or wrongful death.
Legal Rights After a Truck Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical bills and future care
Lost income or reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Wrongful death damages in fatal cases
Trucking accidents are often complex because multiple parties may be at fault—such as the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or even parts manufacturers. That’s why having an experienced personal injury attorney is critical. A lawyer can investigate what went wrong, preserve crucial evidence, and hold all responsible parties accountable.
Protecting Yourself After a Truck Accident
If you are involved in a tractor-trailer crash:
Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel “okay.”
Call the police and ensure a detailed crash report is made.
Document the scene with photos, videos, and witness statements.
Do not speak with insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney.
Contact a personal injury lawyer quickly to protect your rights.
Contact Pisanchyn Law Firm
At Pisanchyn Law Firm, we fight for victims of trucking accidents across Pennsylvania. If you or a loved one has been injured—or if you’ve lost someone due to a tractor-trailer crash—contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve.
