The aftermath of a commercial truck accident can be overwhelming. Medical bills pile up, insurance companies call nonstop, and your injuries may prevent you from returning to work. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a collision with a large commercial vehicle, you need a commercial truck accident attorney who understands the complexities of these cases and will fight for your rightful compensation.
At D’Amore Law Group, we recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll a truck accident takes on victims and their families. With over 30 years of experience handling truck accident cases in Oregon, we provide compassionate and knowledgeable legal representation to ensure you get the justice you deserve.
Why Truck Accidents Are Different from Car Accidents
Truck accidents differ significantly from standard car accidents in several key ways. Understanding these differences can help you recognize the need for specialized legal representation. These unique challenges make working with big rig accident lawyers who understand truck accident litigation critical and can make all the difference in securing compensation.
Greater Damage and Injury Severity
A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to the average 4,000-pound passenger vehicle. The size and weight disparity often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Victims of truck accidents frequently suffer severe trauma, such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, multiple fractures, and burns, which require extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation.
Complex Liability Issues
Unlike car accidents, which typically involve just two drivers, truck accident cases may involve multiple liable parties, including:
- The truck driver,
- Trucking company,
- Cargo loaders,
- Maintenance providers, and
- Vehicle manufacturers.
Determining liability requires an in-depth investigation into factors such as driver training, company policies, and vehicle maintenance history.
Federal and State Regulations
Truck drivers and trucking companies must adhere to strict regulations under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). These regulations cover hours of service, vehicle inspections, cargo weight limits, and driver qualifications. Violations of these rules can contribute to accidents and serve as crucial evidence in your case.
Insurance Company Tactics
Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers dedicated to minimizing payouts. They often use aggressive tactics to pressure victims into low settlements. Without an experienced commercial truck accident attorney, victims may be unaware of all their rights and receive far less compensation than they deserve.
Longer and More Complex Legal Process
Due to the severe nature of injuries, extensive medical costs, and the involvement of multiple parties, truck accident claims often take longer to resolve than standard car accident claims. Proper legal representation ensures victims navigate these complexities effectively while maximizing their potential compensation.
Why You Need a Big Rig Accident Lawyer
Victims of truck accidents often suffer from life-altering injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and severe burns. These injuries require extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. If you have suffered an injury in a truck crash, you need a big rig accident lawyer who understands the full scope of your damages and can fight aggressively on your behalf.
At D’Amore Law Group, we have the experience and resources to take on trucking companies and their insurers. Our deep knowledge of truck accident laws and Tom D’Amore’s NBTA (National Board of Trial Advocacy) Truck Accident Certification make us uniquely qualified to handle these complex cases.
Understanding Your Legal Rights After a Truck Accident
Oregon law follows a comparative negligence rule that allows truck accident victims to seek compensation. This means that even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.
Additionally, Oregon has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit. However, acting quickly is important, as crucial evidence may disappear over time. Trucking companies often have legal teams working to limit their liability, making it essential to secure legal representation as soon as possible.
Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical expenses,
- Lost wages,
- Pain and suffering, and
- Emotional distress.
If a truck accident results in a fatality, family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim to seek justice on behalf of their loved one. Given the complexities of these cases, working with a commercial vehicle accident attorney ensures that your rights are fully protected and you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Big Truck Accident Attorney: Fighting for Maximum Compensation
Insurance companies often attempt to settle truck accident claims for far less than they are worth. A big truck accident attorney at D’Amore Law Group will fight to recover the full compensation you deserve. Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses—hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment;
- Lost wages and future earnings—compensation for lost income and reduced earning capacity;
- Pain and suffering—physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life; and
- Wrongful death—if you lost a loved one, we help families seek justice through wrongful death claims.
Ensuring you receive fair compensation is our top priority, and we will not rest until we have fought for every dollar you deserve.
Get the Legal Help You Need Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, do not wait to seek justice. D’Amore Law Group has a proven record of holding negligent truck drivers and trucking companies accountable. Our firm is here to guide you through this difficult time and ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Call us today for a free consultation with a commercial truck accident attorney who understands your needs and will fight for your future.
Resources
ORS 31.600, Contributory negligence not bar to recovery – Link.
ORS 12.110, Actions for certain injuries to person not arising on contract – Link.
