Winter in Eastern Pennsylvania means unpredictable weather, icy roads, and fleets of municipal trucks and commercial snow plows working around the clock. While these vehicles are vital for public safety, they also create notable traffic risks when accidents occur. A crash involving a snow removal truck, trailer, or other municipal vehicle can lead to significant damages and complex legal questions about liability, insurance, and deadlines to file a lawsuit.
Understanding how these cases differ from standard motor vehicle collisions can make all the difference for injured drivers, passengers, or pedestrians seeking justice.
Why Snow Plow and Municipal Truck Accidents Are So Complicated
When a municipal truck driver loses control on an icy road or fails to maintain proper brake function, the result can be catastrophic. These vehicles are large, heavy, and equipped with sharp or moving equipment that increases the risk of serious personal injury.
Factors That Commonly Contribute to a Crash
- Reduced visibility from snow spray or nighttime plowing
- Brake failure caused by inadequate inspection or worn parts
- Driver fatigue from long hours of service violations
- Improper cargo or weight distribution on the truck or trailer
- Driving under the influence or while using certain medications
- Mechanical failure due to poor maintenance or lack of regulatory compliance
Each of these elements raises unique questions about who holds the duty of care, whether it be the driver, the municipality, the private contractor, or multiple parties. That’s why victims need experienced attorneys who understand the difference between standard car accidents and government-related vehicle accident claims.
Notice Requirements and Filing Deadlines in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law has strict time limits for anyone filing a claim against a government entity or public employee. When a municipal vehicle, such as a city snow plow or county truck, is involved in an accident, the rules for notice and timing differ from those of a private commercial vehicle.
1. The Six-Month Notice Rule
Under Pennsylvania law, anyone pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against a local or state agency must provide written notice within six months of the date of the accident. The requirements of the written notice are set forth in Pennsylvania law, 42 Pa.C.S.A. Section 5522(a).
Failing to meet this notice deadline can jeopardize an otherwise valid claim for pain and suffering, medical costs, or lost income.
2. The Two-Year Statute of Limitations
Even with timely notice, a personal injury lawsuit generally must be properly filed in the appropriate court within two years of the accident date. Victims should contact a lawyer immediately after a collision involving municipal trucks to preserve evidence and meet these procedural hurdles.
Who May Be Liable After a Snow Plow or Municipal Truck Accident
Determining liability in a snow-related accident depends on the vehicle’s ownership, driver’s employment status, and the conditions at the time of the crash. It is important to have experienced attorneys who can properly investigate the accident and are aware of Pennsylvania law to help in determining liability.
Common Injuries in Snow Plow and Truck Collisions
These crashes often produce devastating injuries because of the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Victims may suffer long-term or life-altering consequences such as:
- Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis or chronic pain
- Broken bones from impact with the steering wheel or dashboard
- Traumatic brain injuries from sudden jolts or flying debris
- Soft tissue injuries aggravated by exposure to cold weather or ice
- Fatal injuries that may give rise to a wrongful death claim
How Insurance and Policy Limits Affect Compensation
Insurance coverage for snow plows and municipal trucks varies depending on ownership and employment. Government agencies often have self-insured programs, while private snow removal companies rely on commercial vehicle insurance policies. These policies can contain exclusions or limited coverage for accidents during hazardous weather.
An experienced lawyer will review:
- Policy language to identify coverage for negligent operation
- Employment records to confirm if the driver was on duty
- Maintenance logs to confirm inspection compliance
- Vehicle weight and cargo details that may have violated safety rules
Without this investigation, victims risk settling for less than they deserve or missing a crucial filing deadline altogether.
Avoiding Pitfalls After a Snow-Related Truck Accident
If you were injured in a snow plow or municipal truck crash, quick action is critical. Victims should:
- Report the accident immediately to law enforcement and request a copy of the report.
- Document weather conditions, road surface, and any visible equipment or tire marks.
- Seek medical attention, even if pain seems minor. Symptoms from spinal cord or bone injuries may appear later.
- Do not speak directly with insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney. Statements can be used to reduce liability.
- Keep all employment records and repair bills to support claims for lost wages and property damage.
The Role of Experienced Attorneys in Snow Plow Accident Cases
Legal claims involving municipal or commercial snow plows are far from routine. They often involve:
- Regulatory compliance with both state and federal transport standards
- Analysis of driver hours of service and fatigue logs
- In-depth review of vehicle inspection reports
- Coordination with reconstruction specialists to prove negligence
A seasoned legal team understands how to navigate these issues while building a persuasive case before the notice and statute deadlines expire.
Contact Liever, Hyman & Potter, P.C. for Your Consultation
When a municipal or commercial truck causes a winter accident, the path to compensation can feel overwhelming. Liever, Hyman & Potter, P.C. has represented injured drivers, passengers, and pedestrians across Eastern Pennsylvania for decades, recovering damages for victims of serious crashes. Our attorneys handle the legal details while you focus on healing.If you or a loved one has suffered lost income or long-term injury from a snow removal vehicle or municipal truck accident, contact Liever, Hyman & Potter, P.C. today. Call now to speak directly with a lawyer who knows Pennsylvania’s notice rules, insurance policies, and transport laws inside and out.