Why Truck Accidents Are More Complicated

When a semi-truck or commercial vehicle is involved in an accident, there are usually multiple parties who could potentially share responsibility. That includes:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The company that loaded the cargo
• The vehicle or parts manufacturer
• A maintenance company if equipment failure was a factor

Each of those parties has their own insurance coverage and their own legal team working to minimize their exposure. They start building their defense the moment the accident happens. You should have someone building your case just as fast.

Evidence That Needs to Be Preserved Quickly

Truck accident cases involve a category of evidence that simply does not exist in regular car accident cases, and much of it can disappear quickly if you do not act fast.

• Electronic logging device data showing hours of service
• GPS and route tracking data
• Black box or event data recorder information
• Inspection and maintenance records
• Driver qualification files and employment records
• Cargo loading and weight records

Federal regulations govern how long trucking companies are required to keep some of this data. Getting an attorney involved early means sending preservation letters and making sure nothing gets deleted or overwritten.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Many truck accidents in the Portland area and throughout Oregon and Washington come down to one or more of the following:

• Driver fatigue from hours of service violations
• Distracted or impaired driving
• Speeding or following too closely
• Improper cargo loading causing shifts or spills
• Mechanical failures from poor maintenance
• Inadequate driver training

The Injuries Are Often Serious

Because of the sheer mass involved, truck accidents frequently result in injuries that are life-altering. Cases we handle often involve:

• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and crush injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Permanent disability
• Wrongful death

These cases take time and resources to build properly, but they also tend to involve significant insurance coverage and potentially multiple liable parties. Getting the right representation from the start matters.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

• Call 911 and wait for police to document the scene
• Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel okay
• Take photos of everything you safely can, including the truck, markings, and cargo
• Get the driver’s name, license number, and carrier information
• Do not give any statements to the trucking company or their insurer
• Contact an attorney as soon as possible

How Attorney Fees Work

Truck accident cases are handled on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you.