Semi truck accidents are among the most devastating types of vehicle collisions on the road, often leaving victims with life-altering injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. In the Pacific Northwest, where highways are busy with freight transport, understanding what to do after a semi truck accident is crucial for protecting your rights and securing your future.
At D’Amore Law Group, we understand the overwhelming impact these accidents can have on victims and their families. With more than 30 years of experience and over 2,000 cases handled, we’re here to guide you through this challenging time with compassion and expertise.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Semi Truck Accident
Knowing how to respond immediately after a semi truck accident can significantly affect your recovery and legal case. We recommend taking the following steps to set yourself up for success.
Prioritize Safety and Call 911
If you can, move to a safe location and contact emergency services. Reporting the accident ensures that police and medical personnel arrive promptly to assess the scene and provide assistance. In Washington and Oregon, failure to report serious accidents can result in penalties.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, get evaluated by a medical professional. Injuries from semi truck wrecks often manifest hours or days later, and having documentation is essential for your claim. Prompt medical attention can also strengthen your case by linking injuries directly to the accident.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If it’s safe, take detailed photos of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Record the license plate numbers, the name of the trucking company, and the Department of Transportation (DOT) number visible on the truck. Collect contact information from witnesses and request a copy of the police report once it’s available.
Exchange Information Cautiously
Obtain the truck driver’s name, employer, and insurance details. Be factual, but avoid unnecessary conversation. Do not admit fault, as doing so could harm your claim. Instead, focus on collecting all relevant details about the scene and parties involved.
Document Everything
Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, missed workdays, and other accident-related expenses. Start a journal to document pain, emotional distress, and the impact on your daily life. These records can serve as critical evidence in your case.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
Consulting a knowledgeable semi truck accident attorney soon after an accident can help protect your rights when navigating the complexities of your case. An experienced lawyer will investigate the accident, gather crucial evidence, and handle negotiations with insurance companies and trucking firms.
Understanding the Consequences of Semi Truck Crashes
Semi truck crashes often lead to catastrophic outcomes due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that over 5,000 fatalities occurred in large truck accidents nationwide in 2021, with thousands more suffering serious injuries.
Common causes of semi truck wrecks in Oregon and Washington include driver fatigue, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and reckless driving. Victims may face prolonged recovery times, mounting medical bills, and emotional distress. When fatalities occur, families are left to grieve while dealing with significant financial and personal losses.
Legal Guidance After a Fatal Semi Truck Accident
If your loved one was involved in a fatal semi truck accident, you may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. Oregon’s wrongful death statute allows families to seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship. Similar provisions exist under Washington law.
At D’Amore Law Group, we are committed to supporting grieving families with compassion and expertise. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and will fight tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable.
Choose D’Amore Law Group for Semi Truck Accident Representation
D’Amore Law Group stands out as a leader in the trucking accident field. Tom D’Amore is the only NBTA board-certified truck accident attorney in Oregon and is also board-certified with the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys (ATAA), which offers the only truck accident law board certification accredited by the American Bar Association. This certification process involves demonstrating extensive experience in trucking litigation, passing a rigorous exam, and undergoing peer review by industry experts.
D’Amore Law Group’s track record includes the highest semi-trucking accident verdict in Oregon—a $26.4 million jury verdict in a case involving wrongful death and catastrophic injuries. With this level of expertise and dedication, we’re equipped to take on even the most complex trucking cases and secure maximum compensation for our clients.
Common Questions About Semi Truck Wrecks
What Makes Semi Truck Accidents Different from Regular Car Accidents?
Semi truck wrecks often result in more severe injuries and property damage due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Additionally, trucking companies and their insurers often have teams of lawyers to minimize payouts.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years in Oregon and three years in Washington, but this timeline can vary depending on the specifics of your case. Quick Action helps ensure the preservation of critical evidence, offering the best opportunity for a strong case.
What Compensation Am I Entitled To?
Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In fatal semi truck accidents, families can seek additional damages through wrongful death claims.
D’Amore Law Group: Your Advocates in the Pacific Northwest
If you or a loved one has been involved in a semi truck accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At D’Amore Law Group, we combine compassionate client care with decades of legal expertise to help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery and accountability.
Resources
Oregon wrongful death statute – Link
Washington wrongful death statute – Link
National Board of Trial Advocacy – Link
Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys – Link
Statute of limitations in Oregon – Link
Statute of limitations in Washington – Link
