A serious motor vehicle accident involving a tractor-trailer closed a section of Interstate 80 East in Luzerne County early Thursday morning. According to PennDOT, the crash occurred just after midnight at the busy split of Interstate 80 and Interstate 81 near Drums, a high-traffic interchange frequently used by commercial trucks traveling through Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Crashes involving tractor-trailers are especially dangerous due to the size, weight, and stopping distance of commercial vehicles, risks that are significantly increased during winter weather. Overnight conditions, reduced visibility, icy road surfaces, and snow squalls can quickly turn a routine drive into a catastrophic event, particularly when large trucks are involved.
Pennsylvania winters present unique hazards for motorists, but tractor-trailers pose added risks during snow squalls and icy conditions. Fully loaded trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making it far more difficult for drivers to slow down or stop when road conditions deteriorate. Jackknifing, multi-vehicle pileups, and chain-reaction crashes involving tractor-trailers are far more likely during sudden whiteouts or blowing snow, especially at highway interchanges like I-80 and I-81.
PennDOT reminds drivers that roadways will not be snow-free while precipitation is falling, and freezing temperatures can cause roads that appear wet to actually be icy. Bridges, overpasses, and highway ramps are particularly dangerous because ice can form without warning.
If travel is unavoidable during winter storms, PennDOT recommends the following safety measures:
- Slow down gradually and drive at a speed appropriate for conditions
- Turn on headlights; use hazard lights if caught in a snow squall
- Stay in your lane and increase following distance
- Stay alert, look far ahead, and remain patient
- Avoid distractions—your full attention is required
- Use defrosters and windshield wipers
- Keep windows and mirrors clear of snow and ice
- During whiteouts, pull completely off the roadway if you can do so safely
- Never stop in the flow of traffic, which can cause chain-reaction collisions
- Do not pass slow-moving vehicles or speed up to escape tailgaters
- Always buckle up and never drive impaired
Injured in a Tractor-Trailer Accident? Know Your Rights
Crashes involving commercial trucks and/or tractor-trailers are often far more complex than typical car accidents. Multiple parties may be responsible, including the truck driver, trucking company, maintenance providers, or cargo loaders. When winter weather is involved, trucking companies have a legal duty to adjust driving behavior to road conditions to ensure that their tractor-trailer operate safely in accordance with all state and federal regulations.
If you or a loved one were injured in a tractor-trailer accident on I-80, I-81, or anywhere in Luzerne County, it’s critical to speak with an attorney who understands commercial trucking litigation and Pennsylvania injury law.
At Anzalone & Doyle Trial Lawyers, we focus on serious injury and wrongful death cases arising from tractor-trailer and commercial vehicle crashes. We investigate quickly, preserve critical evidence, and hold trucking companies accountable when negligence causes harm.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, contact us today for a free consultation. There is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.
