Eugene Truck Accident Lawyers

What Can a Eugene Truck Accident Lawyer Do for You?

 

Truck accidents are becoming increasingly common on our roadways, with most drivers discounting the danger or not paying attention. Anyone who is involved in these accidents has a higher chance of injuries. Things get complicated when you must deal with insurance companies and have financial challenges from the accident.

The Eugene truck accident lawyer looks out for your best interests. We handle everything so you can focus on recovering and feeling better. The healing process is slow, and you must reduce stress as much as possible.

A skilled truck accident lawyer handles all aspects of the case, including:

• Investigating the accident and gathering evidence to support our claims.
• Hiring expert witnesses, such as medical and accident teams, to recreate the events. Their insights prove the fault of the trucking company and its driver.
• Taking on the insurance companies and standing up for you. You have rights, and we will not let anyone exploit you. We are fearless in taking on the trucking and insurance companies to hold them responsible.
• Getting the medical assistance you need, including specialists who treat your injuries.
• Ensuring that you always meet deadlines and court dates with our team handling everything.
• Getting you the maximum compensation for your injuries under the law.

These are some of the things a Eugene truck accident attorney could do for you. We will guide you through the process to make things easy.

Causes of Truck Accidents

Many factors can cause a truck accident. These factors determine who is responsible for your damages. Your legal team at Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys will determine who shares liability and negotiate with their insurance companies. Sometimes, only the driver is at fault, but in many cases, a trucking company or the driver of another vehicle is at fault. Causes of truck accidents include:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Driving while tired or fatigued
• Driving while distracted
• Aggressive and/or reckless driving
• Inclement weather
• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Poor road maintenance.

Various parties might share responsibility for your damages. Just because a driver was tired or speeding does not mean that only the driver is responsible. If a dispatcher “encouraged” a driver to “do what it takes” to get the load delivered on time or else lose his or her job, the dispatcher or trucking company could also share liability for telling the driver to break hours-of-service regulations or the speed limit.

Those who might share in the liability for a truck accident include:

• The driver.
• The trucking company.
• A truck owner or lessor.
• Truck mechanic.
• Dispatcher.
• Inspector.
• Truck and/or trailer manufacturer.
• Aftermarket parts manufacturers.
• A municipality that did not keep roads in good repair.
• The driver of another vehicle.

Instead of taking a chance of missing out on money that could help you pay for your injuries, let the truck accident attorneys in Eugene help you recover the compensation you deserve. You can schedule a free case evaluation by calling 206-737-7108 or through our contact page.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

 

In some cases, you might not be able to move without causing additional injuries. In these cases, do not worry about documenting the accident. However, if you can move without causing additional damage to yourself, you should take the following steps after a Eugene truck accident:

• Call first responders and check on others involved in the accident.
• Obtain the following information from other drivers involved in the accident:
  • Contact information
  • Insurance information
  • Registration information
  • CDL license information
  • Truck number, which is sometimes on the side of the cab or the trailer if the driver works for a trucking company.
• Take a photo of the license plate.
• Obtain contact information from witnesses. You can also ask witnesses what they saw.
• Take photos of the accident from all angles. Be sure to include any damage to property, including the road, yards, fences, trees, utility poles, and mailboxes.
• Allow first responders to check you over, even if you believe your injuries are minor. This is the first step in documenting injuries that might manifest hours or even days later.
• Give the police officer your statement.
• Seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident – preferably the same day or the next day.
• Contact Eugene truck accident lawyers at Strong Law Accident & Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation.

The actions you do not take after a truck accident are as important as those you take. Do not post about the accident on any social media sites. Additionally, do not post your activities on any social media sites. Insurance companies troll social media sites to find “reasons” to deny your claim. Even an innocent photo, such as a photo with your spouse or parents at a restaurant, can add fuel to that fire.

Finally, never admit fault — even if you believe you might be partially at fault for the accident.

Recoverable Damages

 

A common question during initial case evaluations is, “What is my truck accident case worth?” We cannot even begin to guess until we review all of your medical records and investigate the case. The type and extent of your injuries play a significant role in how much compensation you will receive. Additionally, your compensation also depends on any contributory negligence.

Contributory negligence laws are complex. Thus, even if you believe you are partially or fully at fault for the accident, always discuss the accident with a personal injury attorney who has extensive experience in vehicle accidents.

The truck accident lawyers in Eugene can help you recover the compensation you deserve, including compensatory damages and punitive damages.

Compensatory Damages

After a truck accident, you could recover compensatory damages in the form of economic and non-economic damages. The court orders economic damages in an attempt to make you financially whole again.

Economic Damages

Sometimes referred to as special damages, economic damages have a monetary value. Someone, whether you or your insurance company, has to pay money out of pocket for economic damages. Economic damages include:

• Medical expenses, including doctors’ appointments, surgeries, follow-up appointments, prescriptions, ambulatory aids, physical therapy, occupational therapy, cognitive therapy, and psychological therapy.
• Lost wages.
• Loss of future earning capacity until your normal retirement age, including partial loss of future earning capacity.
• Repair or replacement of damaged or destroyed personal property, including your vehicle and items of value in your vehicle that was destroyed in the accident.
• Death-related expenses, including funeral and burial expenses, cremation expenses, some probate court expenses, and probate attorney fees.

Truck Accident Infographic

Non-Economic Damages

General damages, or non-economic damages, do not have a fixed dollar value and include:

• Pain and suffering, including emotional distress.
• Loss of quality of life, if you must make life changes, such as using ambulatory aids or taking prescriptions for the rest of your life.
• Loss of consortium and/or companionship.
• Loss of use of a body part or bodily function.
• Amputation of a digit or limb.
• Excessive scarring and/or disfigurement.
• Inconvenience, if you must hire someone to do the chores you normally do, including but not limited to house cleaning, grocery shopping, lawn maintenance, and home repair and maintenance.

Punitive Damages

The court orders a defendant to pay punitive damages only if the plaintiff – you – can prove that the defendant’s action or inactions were grossly negligent or intentional. Instead of making you whole again, as compensatory damages do, the court orders the defendant to pay punitive damages as a punishment for the grossly negligent or intentional behavior that caused your damages and/or losses.

Eugene truck accident lawyers can help determine whether you might be entitled to recover punitive damages after fully investigating your case.

Why Choose Us?

 

The Strong Law Firm is here for the victims of truck accidents. Our firm is dedicated to holding those who caused your accident responsible. We use our years of experience and knowledge to show that they are legally obligated to compensate you for your injuries.

Our team will only stop once we create favorable outcomes for you and are dedicated to getting you the highest settlement. We understand what you are going through and are here to make things easy. Our free consultation is a chance to learn about your options and decide the best course of action. You work with a skilled truck accident lawyer who guides you.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

In most cases, those in a truck accident have never been in such a position before, especially if they lost a loved one because of an accident. These are some of the questions we often hear.

If I live in another city, do I have to go to the Eugene office?

No. Even if the accident occurred in Eugene, but you live in a different city or state, you can contact our local office. We have offices in Tacoma, WA; Portland, OR; and Salt Lake City, UT, in addition to our Eugene, OR, office.

How can I afford a lawyer when I am not working because of accident injuries?

The initial case evaluation is always free and without obligation. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that if we do not win your case, you do not pay attorneys’ fees. During the initial case evaluation, we will go over the contingency contract with you, which includes all our fees and potential costs for representing you.

Do I have to go to court?

If the insurance companies involved come to a fair and reasonable settlement, you do not have to go to court. If the insurance companies do not come to a fair and reasonable settlement, we will help you decide whether to take what the insurance company is offering or go to court. The decision is yours to make.

How do I pay for medical expenses until I receive my settlement?

You can use your auto and health insurance policies to cover medical expenses. Depending on your auto policy, you might receive lost wages while waiting for your settlement. We can also ask hospitals and doctors to wait until you receive your settlement or trial award before initiating collections on unpaid invoices.

How long does it take to get my check?

Once the insurance company agrees to a settlement, it could take up to a month to draft a settlement agreement and make sure you and everyone involved agree to the wording. Once everyone agrees and signs the settlement agreement, the insurance company processes it and forwards a check to our office.

We deposit the check into our escrow account and wait for it to clear the bank. It could take up to 14 days to clear, depending on the amount. We then pay any outstanding medical expenses and reimburse your auto and health insurance companies for you. We also deduct our percentage as agreed upon in the contingency agreement.

Finally, we forward the balance to you to use as you please.

If I lost a loved one, who pays the medical expenses he or she incurred before they passed?

The defendant pays any medical expenses your loved one incurred if they are related to the accident. It does not matter if your loved one passed right after the accident or months later. If the accident injuries caused the death, you can recover compensation for your loved one’s expenses, funeral expenses, and possibly probate court expenses, in addition to non-economic damages, including pain and suffering and loss of consortium.

Seeking Justice and Compensation

Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, leading to severe injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma as an Eugene, OR truck accident lawyer knows all too well. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance from an experienced truck lawyer. With their expertise, you can navigate the complex legal process, fight for your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact a lawyer today at Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys for help.

Understanding Truck Accident Liability

Determining liability in a truck accident can be challenging due to the various parties involved. A skilled accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident to establish liability. Potentially responsible parties may include the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, maintenance crew, or even a government entity.

An accident lawyer will gather evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and electronic data from the truck’s black box, to build a strong case on your behalf. They will use their knowledge of Oregon’s traffic laws and regulations, as well as federal trucking regulations, to identify any violations that may have contributed to the accident.

Navigating Insurance Claims and Lawsuits

Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already coping with injuries and the aftermath of a truck accident. Hiring a Eugene truck accident lawyer will level the playing field. They will handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company, ensuring that your rights are protected.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. They will have the expertise to build a compelling argument, present evidence, and advocate for your best interests in front of a judge and jury.

Seeking Compensation for Damages

Truck accidents often result in significant physical, emotional, and financial damages. An experienced accident lawyer will fight to obtain compensation for your losses, which may include:

1. Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any necessary medical equipment.
2. Lost Wages: If you had to miss work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you lost. Additionally, if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous occupation, your lawyer will seek compensation for the loss of earning capacity.
3. Pain and Suffering: Truck accidents can cause immense physical pain and emotional distress. Your lawyer will pursue compensation for the pain, suffering, and mental anguish you’ve endured.
4. Property Damage: If your vehicle or personal belongings were damaged in the accident, your lawyer will seek reimbursement for the cost of repairs or replacement.
5. Wrongful Death: If you lost a loved one in a truck accident, your lawyer can help you pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional toll of losing a family member.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

After a truck accident, time is of the essence. Evidence can quickly disappear, memories can fade, and statutes of limitations may apply. It’s crucial to consult with a truck lawyer in Eugene as soon as possible. They will ensure that your rights are protected, gather the necessary evidence, and file any legal claims within the required timeframes.

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, it’s vital to seek the help of a skilled lawyer. They will guide you through the legal process, investigate the accident, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve. By having a dedicated advocate by your side, you can focus on your recovery while they pursue justice on your behalf. Contact a Eugene truck accident lawyer at Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys for help.

Why Hire A Truck Accident Lawyer 

As a Eugene, OR truck accident lawyer is highly familiar with, truck accidents can cause a range of physical and psychological injuries to a victim. Understanding the common causes of truck accidents is essential for both truck drivers and other motorists on the road. We will explore five common causes of truck accidents and provide insights into how they can be prevented.

Common Causes Of Accidents

Driver Fatigue

With their long hours, tight and stressful schedules, truck drivers are often forced to work to their limits, often resulting in fatigue. Fatigue impairs reaction time, decision-making abilities, and overall alertness, increasing the risk of accidents. To combat driver fatigue, trucking companies should enforce strict hours-of-service regulations, ensuring drivers get adequate rest breaks and sleep.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing concern on our roads, affecting truck drivers as well. Distractions like cell phone use, eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio can divert a driver’s attention and lead to catastrophic accidents. Truck companies are responsible for implementing policies so that distracted driving is not tolerated, and ensures that drivers are focused at all times. 

Speeding And Reckless Driving

Reckless driving results in many accidents involving trucks each year. Truck drivers may be under pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, leading to speeding and aggressive maneuvers. However, high speeds reduce the driver’s ability to control the vehicle and increase the likelihood of losing control or causing a collision. Strict enforcement of speed limits, driver training programs, and promoting a safety-first culture can help prevent such accidents.

Improper Loading And Cargo Securement

Workers are responsible for properly and securely loading their cargo so that it does not fall out of the truck. If cargo is loaded unevenly or not secured correctly, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable or even tip over. Trucking companies must ensure that all drivers are trained in proper loading and securement procedures and regularly inspect cargo to prevent accidents.

Mechanical Failures And Lack Of Maintenance

Because trucks operate so frequently, they require regular maintenance checks for wear and tear. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake failures, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions, which significantly increase the risk of accidents. Trucking companies should have comprehensive maintenance programs in place, ensuring vehicles are regularly inspected and serviced to prevent mechanical failures.

Seek Immediate Legal Help

Truck accidents can have far-reaching consequences, impacting the lives of those involved and their families. By understanding the common causes of truck accidents, we can take proactive steps to prevent them. Stricter enforcement of regulations, promoting a safety-first culture, driver education programs, and regular vehicle maintenance are all vital in reducing truck accidents and ensuring safer roads for everyone. Remember, safety should always be the top priority for truck drivers and the entire trucking industry. To learn more about your rights following an accident, contact a Eugene truck accident lawyer like one from Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys to receive in-depth and personalized legal counsel. 

Eugene Truck Accident Laws

If you’ve sustained injuries in a truck accident, speak with our Eugene truck accident lawyer. Eugene, OR is a bustling city with a significant presence of commercial trucks on its roads. While these vehicles are essential for the transportation of goods, they also pose a potential risk for accidents. Understanding the truck accident laws in Eugene, OR, is crucial for both truck drivers and the general public. 

Truck Accident Laws In Oregon:

Oregon, like other states, has specific laws governing truck accidents. These laws are in place to protect the rights of individuals involved in these accidents and to ensure that liability is appropriately assigned. Some key truck accident laws in Oregon include:

• Comparative Negligence: Oregon follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means that if you’re involved in a truck accident, your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. It’s important to consult with an attorney to understand how this might affect your case.
• Statute of Limitations: In Eugene, as in the rest of Oregon, there is a statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim and three years to file a property damage claim.
• No-Fault Insurance: Oregon is a no-fault insurance state, meaning that your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. However, you can still pursue a claim against the at-fault party if your injuries are severe.

Liability In Truck Accidents:

Determining liability in truck accidents can be complex due to the various parties involved. Liability may fall on:

• Truck Driver: If the truck driver’s negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, led to the accident, they can be held liable.
• Trucking Company: Often, the trucking company shares responsibility for an accident, particularly if they failed to properly maintain the vehicle, enforce safety regulations, or pressured the driver to meet unrealistic deadlines.
• Vehicle Manufacturer: As a Eugene truck accident lawyer can confirm, the accident may be caused by a defective truck component. In such instances, the manufacturer or distributor could be held liable.
• Other Drivers: It’s not uncommon for other drivers to contribute to truck accidents through reckless or aggressive driving. Liability may be shared among multiple parties.

Steps To Take After A Truck Accident:

After a truck accident in Eugene, you should follow these essential steps:

• Seek Medical Attention: The well-being of all parties involved should be the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, they may have long-term consequences.
• Notify Authorities: Contact the local police to report the accident and create an official record.
• Document the Scene: If it’s safe to do so, gather evidence such as photos, witness statements, and the truck driver’s information.
• Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company and provide them with the necessary information.
• Consult with an Attorney: It’s advisable to consult a legal expert who specializes in truck accidents to protect your rights and explore potential compensation.

If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident, schedule a meeting with a Eugene truck accident lawyer. At Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys, we want to help you get the justice you deserve.

Oregon Laws Pertaining To Truck Accident Claims

Our Eugene, OR truck accident lawyer understands that navigating the legal landscape after a truck accident can be complex. Oregon, like many other states, has specific laws and regulations in place to govern truck accidents.

Oregon’s Comparative Fault System

Oregon follows a modified comparative fault system when it comes to personal injury claims, including those arising from truck accidents. Under this system, the amount of compensation you can recover is reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. However, if you are found to be 51% or more at fault for the accident, you may not be eligible for any compensation. Understanding this system is crucial when pursuing a truck accident claim, as it emphasizes the importance of determining liability accurately. 

Statute Of Limitations

In Oregon, there is a specific time frame within which you must file a personal injury lawsuit following a truck accident. This time limit, known as the statute of limitations, is typically two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file your claim within this period may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.

It’s essential to act promptly after a truck accident, gathering evidence, and consulting with legal professionals, like our trusted Eugene truck accident lawyer. We can ensure that your claim is filed within the prescribed time frame, preserving your legal rights.

Commercial Vehicle Regulations

Truck accidents often involve commercial vehicles, which are subject to federal and state regulations. In Oregon, these regulations cover various aspects of trucking, including driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement.

Understanding these regulations is crucial when building a truck accident claim. Violations of these rules can serve as evidence of negligence on the part of the truck driver or trucking company. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of these regulations and can use them to strengthen your case.

No-Fault Insurance

Oregon operates as a “fault” state when it comes to auto insurance. This means that the at-fault party’s insurance typically covers the damages resulting from a truck accident. However, Oregon law requires drivers to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which provides coverage for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault.

Expert Witness Testimony

In complex truck accident cases, expert witness testimony can play a crucial role. Oregon law allows for the use of expert witnesses to provide specialized knowledge and opinions related to the accident. This can include accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and engineers, among others.

Seek Legal Guidance From Our Attorneys

Navigating the intricate web of laws and regulations surrounding truck accidents in Oregon requires experienced legal representation. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to contact our team for expert guidance and advocacy.

Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Let us be your trusted partners in pursuing a successful truck accident claim. Contact us today for a consultation, and let Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys be your trusted partners in pursuing a successful truck accident claim. Speak with our Eugene truck accident lawyer now.