How to File an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawsuit

Collisions involving 18-wheelers are among the most devastating accidents on the road. Due to the massive size and weight of these trucks, victims often suffer severe injuries, long-term disabilities, or even the loss of a loved one. The medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma can be overwhelming. If negligent actions caused the accident, victims can pursue compensation through an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit.

Filing a lawsuit against a trucking company, driver, or other responsible party can be complex. The trucking industry is governed by federal and state regulations, and large trucking companies often have teams of attorneys working to minimize their liability. Working with an experienced 18-wheeler accident law firm can make a significant difference in securing the compensation that victims deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler in Oregon or Washington, D’Amore Law Group is here to help. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling complex trucking accident claims and are here to fight for your rights.

Who Can File an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawsuit?

Not every person involved in an accident has the legal right to file a lawsuit. To pursue a claim, an individual must have suffered measurable damages due to the crash. Potential parties can include:

Injured drivers and passengers. Injured motorists and passengers may file a claim if another party is at fault.
Motorcyclists and pedestrians. Individuals injured in an 18-wheeler collision while riding a motorcycle, walking, or biking may seek compensation.
Family members in wrongful death cases. If an 18-wheeler crash results in a fatality, surviving family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of their loved one.

To succeed in a lawsuit, the plaintiff must prove that another party’s negligence caused the accident. That is where working with a knowledgeable attorney is crucial.

Steps to Take After an 18-Wheeler Truck Crash

Taking the proper steps after an accident can protect your health and legal rights. If you have been involved in an 18-wheeler crash, follow these steps:

Seek medical attention immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions, such as internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Medical records are also essential evidence in an accident claim.
Report the accident. Call law enforcement to file a report. Police documentation can provide critical evidence in your case.
Gather evidence. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Collect witness contact information if possible.
Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters alone. Trucking companies and insurers may attempt to offer a low settlement or shift blame onto the victim. Do not agree to any settlement before consulting an attorney.
Contact an attorney. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and fight for fair compensation.

Every action taken after a crash can impact the outcome of an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit. Prompt legal guidance is essential in these cases.

Determining Liability in an 18-Wheeler Accident

Unlike standard car accidents, determining fault in these collisions can be complex. Multiple parties may be liable, including:

The truck driver. They may be responsible if the driver was fatigued, distracted, intoxicated, or reckless.
The trucking company. If the company failed to enforce safety regulations, hired an unqualified driver, or pressured the driver to exceed legal driving limits, they may share liability.
The truck manufacturer. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or defective tires, may place liability on the manufacturer.
Cargo loaders. Improperly loaded or overweight cargo can cause a truck to become unstable, contributing to an accident.

Identifying all responsible parties is critical in securing full compensation. A thorough investigation is often required to uncover violations of safety laws, maintenance failures, or driver negligence.

Damages Available in an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawsuit

Victims of 18-wheeler accidents often suffer extensive financial and emotional damages. Compensation may include:

Medical expenses—coverage for emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care;
Lost wages and loss of earning capacity—compensation for income lost due to an inability to work, as well as future lost earnings;
Pain and suffering—damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life;
Property damage—the cost of repairing or replacing a damaged vehicle; and
Wrongful death damages—funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering for families who have lost a loved one.

Every case is different. Speak with a lawyer at D’Amore Law Group to learn more.

18-Wheeler Accident Settlements: How Much Is a Claim Worth?

18-wheeler lawsuit settlements vary widely based on several key factors:

Severity of injuries. Permanent disabilities and long-term medical care increase settlement amounts.
Evidence. Clear evidence of negligence, such as violations of trucking regulations, can strengthen a case.
Insurance policy limits. The at-fault party’s insurance coverage often limits settlements.

Settlements allow victims to recover compensation without going to trial, but if an insurer refuses to offer a fair amount, taking the case to court may be necessary.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim for an 18-Wheeler Truck Crash?

There are strict deadlines for filing an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in both Oregon and Washington:

Oregon. Victims typically must file a lawsuit within two years from the accident date.
Washington. The statute of limitations is generally three years from the accident date.

While these guidelines apply to most cases, there are situations where the deadline might differ. That is why we recommend accident victims contact a lawyer right away. Failing to file within the legal timeframe may result in losing the right to pursue compensation.

Speak with an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Today

An accident with an 18-wheeler can leave victims facing significant financial and physical hardships. If you or a loved one has been injured, do not wait to seek legal help. Filing an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit may provide the financial recovery you need to move forward.

D’Amore Law Group has over three decades of experience handling trucking accident claims in Oregon and Washington. Our attorneys are committed to fighting for maximum compensation on behalf of our clients.

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