Truck Accidents Attorney in Portland, Oregon

Truck accidents here in Oregon can be catastrophic, leaving victims and their families with a heavy burden of physical, emotional, and financial pain. In fact, the number of crashes involving trucks are only increasing by the year: from 2,144 crashes in 2014 to 2,336 crashes in 2021, an increase of more than 10%. During this difficult time for you and your loved ones, it’s important to understand that victims have options. One of these options is to reach out to a personal injury attorney.  

At Injury Lawyer PDX, LLC, I focus on helping injured victims move forward from truck accidents and other personal injuries. For over two decades, I’ve dedicated my practice to guiding individuals through the legal system as they pursue justice and the fair compensation they deserve.  

I know you're overwhelmed by your loss, medical bills, and insurance frustrations. But I also know that a compassionate, assertive legal advocate on your side can make all the difference. If you live in Portland or anywhere else in Oregon, including Clackamas, Washington, Multnomah, Marion, Lincoln, and Tillamook counties, set up a consultation with me today. 

Laws Affecting Truck Accidents 

Like other automobiles on the road, trucks are regulated by certain laws, at both the federal and state levels.  

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations: Federal regulations play a crucial role in the operation of trucks and accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) governs the trucking industry. One of the most significant regulations involves the hours of operation for truck drivers, designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents. 

• Oregon Regulations: Oregon has its own set of regulations governing commercial trucking within the state. These rules complement federal laws to ensure safety on our state’s roads. 

• Statute of Limitations: Time is of the essence when pursuing a truck accident claim. In Oregon, the statute of limitations sets a specific time frame within which you must file your lawsuit: two years from the date of the crash. It's essential to understand and adhere to these time constraints to protect your rights. 

Assessing Liability

Determining liability in a truck accident in Oregon is a complex process. Various parties could share responsibility, including: 

• The Truck Driver: Fatigue, inadequate training, or recklessness on the part of the truck driver can contribute to accidents. 

• The Truck Company: Trucking companies may be held accountable for their employees' actions, such as pushing drivers to meet unrealistic schedules, negligent hiring, and failing to maintain their vehicles. 

• The Truck (Or Parts) Manufacturer: Defective parts or equipment in the truck can lead to accidents. Manufacturers can be held responsible for producing faulty components. 

• The Person Who Loaded the Cargo: Improperly loaded cargo can cause disastrous accidents. The person or company responsible for loading the cargo must ensure it's done safely and securely. 

• The Maintenance Personnel: Negligent maintenance, inspection, or repair work on the truck can lead to mechanical failures and accidents. 

Factors in Determining Liability

When assessing liability, several factors could potentially come into play: 

• Truck Driver: Unfortunately, fatigue is a common issue in the trucking industry due to long hours on the road. Inadequate training, substance abuse, or reckless behavior can also be contributing factors. 

• Vehicle Driver: Sometimes, the actions of the other driver involved in the accident may contribute to the wreck. 

• Road Conditions: Poor road conditions, construction zones, and inclement weather can create additional challenges for truck drivers, affecting liability. 

No matter your specific situation, it’s vital to contact a skilled truck accidents attorney for guidance. 

Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Oregon

If you or your loved one has been a victim of a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation. It's important to know what steps to take: 

• Are You the Victim? As the victim, you should seek immediate medical attention. Your health should be your number one priority. Then, if possible, gather evidence at the scene, and contact law enforcement. Document your injuries and keep track of all medical expenses. You should also report the accident to your insurance company—but be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters. Consult an attorney before making any statements. 

• Are You Representing a Loved One Who Was Incapacitated or Lost Their Life? If a family member has been severely injured or killed in a truck accident, your focus should be on their recovery or managing the aftermath of the incident. However, it's crucial to consult a lawyer as soon as possible. You should never try to navigate the legal aspects of your situation on your own.