Recent statistics show that more than 1,600 big rig accidents occur annually in Oregon. These collisions result in hundreds of injuries for those involved. In some cases, the results are fatal. Accidents involving big rigs can instantly change lives. These massive vehicles dominate highways and roadways, and the consequences can be devastating when something goes wrong.
If you got hurt in a collision with a big rig that someone else caused, you may have legal options available to help you move forward. Our Oregon big rig truck accident lawyers at Rizk Law can help you understand your options and get you the support you need.
Understanding Big Rig Truck Accidents in Oregon
Big rigs, also known as semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, or tractor-trailers, are essential for moving goods across the country. However, their size and weight make them a serious hazard when they are involved in motor vehicle accidents.
Truck wrecks account for a significant percentage of roadway fatalities and injuries each year. Victims of these accidents often face extensive medical treatment, financial hardships, and emotional trauma.
Common causes of these collisions include:
Driver Fatigue
Around 13 percent of truck crashes in the US result from driver fatigue. Even though strict laws limit the number of hours drivers spend on the road, fatigue continues to play a major role in accidents across our state. When truckers drive for extended periods, they can more easily make errors or fall asleep due to drowsiness.
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers often use CB radios to communicate with each other. These devices, eating, and other distractions can take truckers’ attention off the road. Using a phone or engaging in other distractions while driving is a growing problem that can cause devastating collisions.
Mechanical Failures
Federal law requires frequent inspections of tractor-trailers to ensure that brakes, tires, and other components are in good shape and properly functioning. When these inspections do not happen or parts are defective or malfunctioning, it can lead to serious semi-truck accidents.
Improper Loading
Companies need to load big rig trailers in a specific way. In addition to location, there is a weight limit for the cargo that each trailer can hold. Unbalanced or overweight trailer loads can cause shifting, raising the risk of rollovers and spills.
Weather Conditions
Oregon is no stranger to hazardous weather conditions. Operating a truck in heavy rain, snow, or icy weather can be especially challenging. Bad weather increases the chances of drivers losing control and crashing.
Legal Framework Governing Truck Accidents in Oregon
Big rig accidents are not like typical car crashes. They involve unique laws and regulations, including:
Federal Trucking Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets rules for driving hours, truck maintenance, and driver qualifications. When drivers are on the road longer than they are allowed or commit other FMCSA regulation violations, they can be liable for any crash their actions contribute to.
State-Specific Laws
Oregon’s rules for trucking operations promote safety and establish liability in the event of a violation. As a result, commercial truck drivers or companies may be responsible for any resulting damages if their negligence or a breach of the law led to the accident.
Liability Laws
Determining who is at fault for a big rig collision can be complicated. Liability may fall on the driver, trucking company, or even the manufacturer of the truck or its parts. It is also important to remember that our state’s modified comparative fault rule may impact the amount of compensation a victim can recover. An Oregon big rig crash attorney understands these rules and how they apply to your case.
Importance of Hiring an Oregon Big Rig Truck Accident Lawyer
A big rig truck accident can be life-altering. Filing a personal injury claim can seem overwhelming, particularly if you have never filed a legal claim before. For this reason, it is in your best interest to seek help from a big rig wreck lawyer in Oregon.
An attorney who has experience handling complex big rig accident claims in Oregon will be able to use their knowledge of both state and federal laws on your case. They can identify who is liable for your injuries and take the appropriate actions against them.
Additionally, an attorney can negotiate compensation on your behalf. They know how insurance companies work and the tactics adjusters use to minimize or get out of paying your claim. Your lawyer can use this knowledge to build a solid claim for you and present the strongest evidence in your favor. If the insurers will not make a reasonable settlement offer, your attorney can advocate for you inside the courtroom and show the judge or jury why you deserve fair compensation.
Our team at Rizk Law has decades of combined experience helping clients protect their rights after big rig collisions. We have recovered millions for our clients and know how to build solid truck accident cases.
Steps to Take Following a Big Rig Accident
The steps you take after a big rig wreck can significantly impact your health and legal rights. It is crucial that you contact the police immediately and seek medical assistance. The police can secure the area and create a report based on their observations. A thorough medical exam can help identify your truck accident injuries and start treatment.
In addition to protecting your health and well-being, these critical steps will set the foundation for your personal injury claim. If you can, take pictures of the crash site or record videos showing the road conditions, your vehicle, and any visible injuries. Although the police will take information from witnesses and others involved in the crash, you should get this information for yourself.
You should also contact a big rig accident attorney in Oregon right away. Your attorney can start legal work while you get the care you need for your injuries.
Common Challenges in Big Rig Accident Claims in Oregon
Filing a claim after a big rig accident is not always simple. There are often several challenges that victims face. These include:
- Dealing with trucking companies – These companies have legal teams working to protect their interests.
- Proving violations – Without proper legal guidance, showing that trucking regulations were ignored or violated can be difficult.
- Calculating damages – Victims often do not know how much they are entitled to recover, and many end up settling for far less than they deserve.
When it comes to dealing with these and other challenges throughout the legal process, an experienced large truck collision attorney can make all the difference. They can explain your rights and what compensation you can pursue. They will also work hard to build a strong case and demand the full amount of money you’re entitled to.
How an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney Can Assist
At Rizk Law, we understand what it takes to build a successful big rig accident case. Some of the ways our team helps include:
- Thorough investigations – Our team works hard to gather evidence to develop strong truck accident claims. We obtain black box data, driver logs, maintenance reports, driver records, and more to fully establish that the other party is at fault.
- Expert collaboration – We partner with experts as needed to prove various aspects of each claim we handle. We work with reconstruction specialists to recreate the accident to show what happened, financial experts to calculate lost earnings and other financial burdens, and health experts to prove the connection between the collision and the injuries.
- Legal advocacy – Whether our team negotiates a settlement or fights for you in court, we work hard to make your voice heard. We advocate fearlessly for our clients and will stand up for you against large trucking companies and insurance providers whenever necessary.
Selecting the Right Truck Accident Lawyer in Oregon
Choosing the right lawyer for your big rig accident case can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few key factors can make the decision easier. Experience is critical. Select a law firm with a strong track record in handling cases like yours.
At Rizk Law, we have been fighting for injury victims and handling challenging big rig accidents for decades. Results also matter, and we are proud to have secured significant settlements and verdicts for our clients – including $520,000 for a semi-truck wreck.
Equally important is finding an Oregon truck accident lawyer who truly cares about your needs. At Rizk Law, we take a client-focused approach, and the feedback we’ve received speaks for itself. As one client shared: “Made it so easy! Took care of all the intricate details, great communication, and I got a higher settlement than I was expecting.” This level of care and dedication is what sets us apart.
Call Our Oregon Big Rig Truck Accident Lawyers Today
If you are involved in a commercial truck accident, our dedicated and knowledgeable big rig injury claims lawyers in Oregon can explain your rights and fight for the compensation you need to move forward. Contact Rizk Law today for a free consultation to learn more.