Whether you are heading into the Philadelphia metro area or planning a long trip to the state line in Ohio, the PA Turnpike is one of the most important thoroughfares through the state. It is a well-maintained roadway and a tolled road, which can mean slightly less traffic than other areas nearby. For those planning a trip along this route, it’s helpful to know a few strategies to ensure your safety along the way.
At Kwartler Manus, we know that the PA Turnpike can be dangerous. As a high-speed, busy freeway, our truck accident lawyers help victims of accidents get the legal guidance they need.
Know the Rules of the Road
To safely travel the PA Turnpike, you need to know the traffic laws applicable in the area. Traffic rules and regulations for the turnpike are numerous, and reading through them helps you avoid common mistakes. Here are a few of the most common traffic law violations that happen on these roadways.
- Speeding. The speed limit through most of the PA Turnpike is 70 miles per hour. There are some areas where there may be slower speed requirements, such as around hills and across blind spots. If the posted speed limit is lower, follow it. Speeding is a common cause of accidents along much of the PA Turnpike in Chester and Montgomery Counties.
- Breakdowns. If your vehicle breaks down for any reason, it is critical to move to the side of the road out of the way of traffic. The state’s laws for the turnpike are that if a vehicle is left abandoned for 24 hours, it will be impounded. That could mean long waits and fines to recover it. If you have a breakdown, seek the help of the Pennsylvania police.
- Stopping. You cannot stop your vehicle on the PA Turnpike unless there is an emergency. If you park, stop, load, or unload on the roadway, you could face a ticket and fines. If possible, exit off the roadway instead of stopping along the sides.
- Reckless driving. It is not permitted to drive in an unsafe manner. That means if you are operating your vehicle in any way considered aggressive, such as tailgating or switching lanes illegally, you may be breaking the law.
- Crossing the median. The PA Turnpike has medians along much of it. It is illegal to cross the median. U-turns are not permitted on this roadway either. If you engage in these actions, you could be putting your safety at risk and may face fines.
If you are unsure of the laws of the road, make sure you do a bit of research before you get on the turnpike. Doing so protects you and those in the vehicle with you as well as provides safety for others on the road with you.
The PA Turnpike Is a Commercial Truck Corridor
Like many of the highways throughout the state, trucks use the PA Turnpike very commonly. Some travel from Philadelphia all the way out to Ohio or through New Jersey. As a result, you can expect to see numerous tractor-trailers and big rigs on the road with you. It’s common to see trucks along Uwchlan Township, Charlestown Township, and the Great Valley Interchange, as well as near Pottstown, among other areas.
There are several things you can do to stay safe on the PA Turnpike when sharing the road with trucks.
- Give trucks room. One of the ways you can minimize the risk of being in an accident on the PA Turnpike is to put distance between you and trucks. Trucks need room to transition from one lane to the next. If you cut them off at the last moment, they cannot always stop quickly enough.
- Know that the trucks need more room to stop. A large truck needs up to two football fields of room to stop fully and safely. If you suddenly stop with a truck behind you, that can create a risk of rear-end collisions.
- Truckers are on the road for long hours. As a result, if you notice a truck that is moving erratically or may not be driving the speed limit, stay clear. If you believe there is danger, contact the local police to have them investigate.
Remember that trucks have much larger blind spots and carry heavy loads. A truck driver who loses control may be unable to prevent the vehicle from jackknifing or rolling over. By paying attention to the roadway and the location of trucks, you may be able to avoid the area where such an incident occurs.
Know When to Get Legal Help After an Accident on the PA Turnpike
The PA Turnpike is a busy roadway on any given day. To stay safe, drive carefully and remain attentive to your surroundings. If you still find yourself suffering injuries and losses from another driver’s aggressive behavior, negligence, or inexperience, turn to a legal team ready to help you.
Call Kwartler Manus for a free consultation. Our PA Turnpike truck accident lawyers serve clients in Montgomery and Chester counties for all types of accidents on the roadway.