I-376 Bucket Truck Wrongful Death Lawsuit
A I-376 bucket truck wrongful death lawsuit may result from a devastating crash early Friday morning on the eastbound lanes of the Penn-Lincoln Parkway (I-376) near the Forbes Avenue exit. A construction worker was fatally injured after a tractor-trailer struck a bucket truck that had been set up for overnight maintenance work.
What Happened
At approximately 3:15 a.m., a bucket truck was positioned in the left lane for ongoing construction operations, with its bucket arm extended over the adjacent right lane, which remained open to traffic. A passing tractor-trailer traveling in that right lane struck the elevated bucket, causing it to swing violently and eject the worker. The impact caused the worker to fall from the overpass, suffering critical injuries.
Victim and Emergency Response
Co-workers at the scene immediately rendered aid while awaiting emergency responders. The injured worker was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries. His identity has not yet been released pending family notification. The tragic incident halted traffic for several hours while investigators examined the scene.
Investigation and Liability Factors
The Pennsylvania State Police and workplace safety officials are investigating the crash to determine its causes and contributing factors. The review will focus on whether adequate safety measures were in place, including appropriate signage, lane closures, and barrier protection for workers. Investigators will also evaluate whether the bucket’s extension over an active traffic lane complied with safety regulations and whether the tractor-trailer driver was operating within safe limits.
Additionally, authorities may assess potential violations of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards or Pennsylvania work zone safety laws, which are designed to protect highway maintenance personnel from avoidable hazards.
Legal Rights and Wrongful Death Claims
When a construction worker is killed in a work zone accident caused by another party’s negligence, surviving family members may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. Compensation may cover funeral and medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one. In addition to a wrongful death claim, a workers’ compensation claim may be available, and third-party liability could apply if the negligence of a driver, contractor, or equipment manufacturer contributed to the fatal incident.
How Chaffin Luhana Can Help
Let Our Attorneys Fight For You & Your Family
How Chaffin Luhana Can Help
At Chaffin Luhana, our Pittsburgh wrongful death and construction accident attorneys provide free case evaluations to families affected by workplace tragedies. We assist with gathering critical evidence, coordinating with state and federal investigators, and ensuring compliance with all filing requirements. Our legal team is dedicated to pursuing maximum compensation and accountability for victims of unsafe working conditions and negligent actions.
Call (412) 345-8144 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation today.