Bethlehem Township, PA (February 12, 2026) – A multi-vehicle crash involving two tractor-trailers caused injuries and major traffic congestion on Route 33 in Northampton County early Thursday morning. The accident was reported at approximately 5:18 a.m. in the northbound lanes within Bethlehem Township.
According to Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Nathan Branosky, the collision involved three vehicles in total, two of which were large commercial trucks. The impact occurred during the dark, early morning hours, leading to an immediate response from emergency medical services and fire crews.
Authorities confirmed that several individuals sustained injuries in the crash, though the exact number of victims and the severity of their conditions have not yet been disclosed. The northbound lanes of Route 33 were heavily restricted for several hours as investigators processed the scene and heavy-duty towing crews worked to remove the damaged tractor-trailers. The cause of the collision remains under active investigation by the State Police.
Tractor-Trailer Accident in Pennsylvania
Collisions involving multiple tractor-trailers present unique legal challenges, particularly when determining the sequence of events in a chain-reaction crash. Under Pennsylvania law, victims of such accidents have the right to seek compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost wages. Pennsylvania follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule, meaning an injured party can recover damages as long as they are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. Because commercial trucks are involved, federal trucking regulations regarding driver hours of service and vehicle maintenance often become central to the investigation.
Navigating the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident requires a comprehensive legal approach to ensure all liable parties are held accountable. A semi-truck accident attorney in Pennsylvania secures vital evidence, such as the “black box” electronic data from the tractor-trailers, which can reveal speed and braking patterns at the time of impact. They also manage the complex interactions between multiple insurance carriers for the trucking companies and private motorists, ensuring that no-fault benefits are correctly applied and that victims are not pressured into premature settlements.
Pennsylvania law enforces strict timelines for those pursuing a legal claim after a serious injury. While the general statute of limitations for personal injury is two years, the physical evidence at a commercial crash site can disappear within days or even hours. Furthermore, if a mechanical failure or a hazardous roadway design contributed to the pre-dawn collision, specific notice requirements may apply. Taking prompt action is a necessary step to preserve evidence and ensure that your family receives the full support and financial recovery needed during the healing process.
If you have questions about your legal rights after a tractor-trailer accident or a multi-vehicle collision, contact Stanley Law Office at 888-997-3889 for a free, private consultation. We are here to help you find the answers and support you deserve.
