Washington Truck Accident Lawyer

How Our Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help You

When a fully loaded semi-truck and a passenger vehicle collide, the occupants of the car or SUV often end up much worse off than the trucker. Sometimes, the car could get stuck underneath the trailer. Or, its occupants may be flung from the vehicle due to the force of the impact. Internal bleeding, crushing injuries, Traumatic Brain Injuries, and multiple broken bones that you may suffer from a truck crash can leave you incapacitated for weeks or even months. Medical bills pile up while you’re left in pain, not knowing where to turn. Our Washington truck accident lawyer can help you seek justice and demand compensation from the truck driver and possibly the trucking company. If you’ve been hurt in a wreck you didn’t cause, you have rights – and we’re here to protect them.

Suing for Truck Accidents

If the driver was negligent, such as if they were texting and driving, driving longer hours than the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) permits, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you can sue them for the losses you incurred because of the accident. A truck injury accident lawsuit can include compensation to cover your medical care and future medical needs, like physical or occupational therapy. It can also include covering lost wages from time missed at work, pain and suffering from your injuries, and the emotional trauma you experienced from the accident. The trucker may not be the only liable party in a crash. If their employer was negligent in hiring or failed to supervise the driver properly, they could also be liable for the wreck.

Truck Accident Cases Involve Complex Litigation

Semi-truck collision lawsuits are often more complex than a suit involving two private drivers. First, there’s a good chance that the trucking company may become involved, which means that you could be facing its formidable legal team. Secondly, there could be multiple defendants in the case, like:

• The truck driver
• The shipping company
• The manufacturer of the trailer or rig
• The cargo loaders

This means that your Washington truck accident attorney must prepare cases proving that each party involved was negligent and, therefore, responsible for your injuries. You need seasoned legal advice from attorneys who have the depth of experience and knowledge necessary to fight for your rights.

The Impact Of Truck Accidents

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, our Washington truck accident lawyer can help you find your way forward.  Truck accidents are among the most catastrophic road incidents due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. When accidents involve commercial trucks, the consequences can be devastating, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Understanding the impact of these accidents is crucial for those affected. Due to the massive size of commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often lead to more severe injuries than typical car accidents. These injuries can range from broken bones and lacerations to more serious conditions such as spinal injuries or traumatic brain injuries. The recovery process for such injuries can be lengthy and challenging, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Challenges Faced By Truck Accident Victims

Victims of truck accidents face numerous challenges in the aftermath of the incident. The physical and emotional trauma can be overwhelming, affecting every aspect of their lives. In addition to the physical injuries, victims often experience significant emotional and psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The financial implications of a truck accident can be substantial. Medical expenses can quickly accumulate, and if the injuries result in long-term disability, the loss of income can pose a significant financial burden. The path to recovery can be fraught with challenges, including the need for ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.

Community And Road Safety

Truck accidents often raise concerns about road safety and the need for effective safety measures. These incidents highlight the importance of responsible driving practices, especially among commercial truck drivers. They also bring attention to the need for regular vehicle maintenance and adherence to safety regulations to prevent such accidents.

The Role Of Support After A Truck Accident

For individuals affected by a truck accident, finding support can be a critical step in their recovery process. Seeking medical attention immediately after the accident is essential, as is finding emotional and psychological support to cope with the aftermath. Community resources, support groups, and professional counseling can offer valuable assistance to truck accident victims. These resources can provide the necessary support and guidance to help individuals navigate the challenging aftermath of an accident. And of course, seeking legal assistance should be your first step towards closure and compensation.

Tips for Safely Coexisting With Trucks

While these giants of the highway transport the everyday essentials that keep our lives humming, their sheer size and power demand respect and caution. 

• Stay Out Of The Blind Spots

These trucks have them, and they’re often bigger than your average vehicle’s blind spot. Avoid lingering in their blind zones (typically around the front corners and directly behind the trailer). If you can’t see the driver’s mirrors, they likely can’t see you. Stay out of their blind spots as much as possible, and pass only when it’s clear and safe.

• Give Space, Get Grace

There’s no denying the mere size of trucks, requiring that drivers to give these vehicles more space than usual. Maintain a safe following distance, at least four seconds (double during bad weather). Remember, physics isn’t your friend when a loaded truck needs to hit the brakes. Avoid tailgating, and give them ample room to maneuver, especially when turning or changing lanes. 

• Signal Early, Communicate Clearly

You’ll want to signal your intention to make a turn or enter another lane of traffic well in advance. Use your turn signals well in advance of any lane changes or merges. Maintain a steady signal, not a frantic disco light show, and give the truck driver ample time to react. Eye contact can also be a helpful way to confirm you’ve been seen and acknowledged. 

• Pass With Precision

Don’t get frustrated if you’re stuck behind a lumbering truck. Always exercise extra caution if there’s a need to pass a truck. Wait for clear visibility, ensure no oncoming traffic, and then pass quickly and decisively. Don’t linger alongside the truck, and merge back in smoothly once you’re past.

• Take Extra Caution During Severe Weather

Even the most experienced driver armed with the latest semi-truck can find themselves having extra difficulty during weather conditions like fog, rain, or snow. Slow down, increase your following distance, and avoid sharp maneuvers. Remember, those massive tires take longer to grip slick roads, and sudden stops can lead to jackknifing, a sight you definitely don’t want to witness from your rearview mirror.

Washington Truck Accident Infographic

Washington Truck Accident Statistics

According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, tractor-trailers and other large trucks are in more than 5,000 fatal truck accidents each year.  Because these vehicles are so massive in size, there is a higher rate of death and catastrophic injuries compared to other types of vehicle accidents. About 15 percent of victims are truck occupants, while 70 percent are occupants in cars and other passenger vehicles. Another 15 percent are pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists. Contact one of our truck accident lawyers for legal help if you or a loved one has been injured to find out what legal recourse you may have for your losses.

Washington Truck Accident FAQs

We know that truck accidents can be particularly devastating and complicated, and our truck accident attorney can help you understand what you need to know in order to pursue a successful claim. Listed below are some frequently asked questions that can help you understand the path forward for your case. To further discuss your case and any questions that you may have, contact us at Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC to schedule a consultation today.

How Is Liability Determined In Truck Accident Cases?

Determining liability in a truck accident involves a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Our Washington truck accident lawyer will examine evidence such as the truck driver’s logbooks, vehicle maintenance records, witness statements, and accident scene photos. They may also review the trucking company’s compliance with federal and state regulations.  This process helps to identify whether the truck driver, trucking company, equipment manufacturers, or other parties are at fault due to negligence or violation of laws. Determining which party or parties are liable for your accident is crucial in pursuing compensation for your injuries.

What Are Some Common Causes Of Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents can occur for a variety of. Some common causes of accidents are driver fatigue, distracted driving, improper loading, equipment failure, and inadequate training. Weather conditions and poor road maintenance can also contribute to accidents. A skilled truck accident lawyer will analyze the specific causes of an accident to establish negligence and pursue the appropriate claims for damages no matter the cause of the accident.

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After An Accident?

After a truck accident, your immediate priority should be seeking medical attention for any injuries. It’s also crucial to document the scene by taking photos and obtaining contact information from witnesses.  Evidence gathered at the scene of the accident can be crucial for your claim down the line. Reporting the accident to the police is essential for an official record. Finally, once you are able, contacting a truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure your rights are protected from the start.

What Type Of Compensation Can I Seek?

Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the responsible party’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious.  An experienced truck accident lawyer will assess the full extent of your losses to ensure that any settlement or court award reflects the true cost of the accident, both now and in the future.

How Can A Truck Accident Lawyer Assist Me With Filing A Claim?

A truck accident lawyer provides invaluable assistance by managing all aspects of your claim. This includes investigating the accident, filing insurance claims, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary.  Our Washington truck accident lawyer brings a deep understanding of the laws and regulations affecting truck accidents, helping you pursue the maximum compensation possible for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.

Washington Truck Accident Glossary

At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the life-changing impact a truck accident can have. If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision involving a commercial truck, knowing the key legal concepts can help you better understand your rights. Below are essential terms frequently encountered in truck accident cases.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs)

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations are a set of rules created by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to govern the operation of commercial motor vehicles in the United States. These regulations cover areas such as the number of consecutive hours a driver can operate a truck, vehicle maintenance requirements, and mandatory drug and alcohol testing. For example, if a truck driver violates hours-of-service rules by driving longer than permitted and causes a collision due to fatigue, the driver and their employer could be held responsible. Truck accident claims often involve investigating FMCSR violations to establish negligence and liability.

Hours Of Service (HOS)

Hours of Service rules limit the number of hours truck drivers can spend behind the wheel and require rest breaks to prevent fatigue-related accidents. These regulations are part of the FMCSRs and are designed to protect everyone on the road. For instance, a truck driver is generally allowed to drive a maximum of 11 hours within a 14-hour window following a 10-hour break. If a driver exceeds this limit and causes a crash due to drowsiness, the violation can strengthen your case. Hours-of-service logs are key pieces of evidence that a truck accident lawyer will often review during an investigation.

Black Box Data

Commercial trucks are typically equipped with an electronic logging device (ELD) or “black box,” which records crucial data about the vehicle’s operation. This data can include speed, braking patterns, engine hours, and whether the driver used the brakes before a collision. For example, if a truck collided with your vehicle and the black box data shows that the driver was speeding or didn’t apply the brakes before impact, this information could be vital evidence in your case. A truck accident lawyer will work to secure this data as part of the discovery process.

Multiple Defendants

Truck accident cases often involve multiple defendants, which can make these claims more complicated than standard car accident cases. In addition to the truck driver, other potentially liable parties may include the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts, the maintenance company, or the cargo loader. For instance, if a crash is caused by improperly loaded cargo shifting during transport, the cargo loading company could share responsibility for the accident. Identifying all liable parties is essential to maximize compensation in a truck accident claim.

Comparative Fault

Washington operates under a pure comparative fault system, which means that even if you are partially at fault for a truck accident, you can still recover compensation. However, your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident because you were speeding, but the truck driver was 80% at fault for running a red light, you can still recover 80% of the total damages. A truck accident lawyer can help you challenge unfair fault allocations and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, Washington Truck Accident Lawyer

19219 68th Ave S Suite M-101, Kent, WA 98032

Contact Our Washington Truck Accident Lawyer Today

By adopting these simple tips and driving with respect and awareness, we can all navigate the highways of Washington safely and efficiently. However, even the most cautious drivers can find themselves the victims of negligence on the road. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Washington, don’t go it alone. Our experienced Washington truck accident lawyer from Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC is here to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, so you can contact us today for a free consultation and let our dedicated team stand by your side on the road to recovery.