If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a truck accident, there may be differences in both what compensation you can recover and what laws apply. Although some laws of negligence apply that would are relevant to any vehicle accident, there are additional ones that apply only to commercial truck drivers and trucking companies as well as special licensing and training requirements of truck drivers. This can make truck accidents more difficult to defend and easier for a plaintiff to win in their favor.
Anyone who has been seriously injured or lost a loved one in an accident with a truck can sue as long as someone else is at fault for the accident. This includes adults as well as children who can sue through a parent or guardian.
Since Oregon is a modified comparative negligence state and an injured person can sue for their injuries as long as their percentage of fault is not greater than 51 percent.
In a truck accident, even more than a typical accident, it is crucial to conduct a thorough investigation. Since most trucks are commercially-owned, the trucking company will conduct their own investigation immediately after the accident, which puts you at a disadvantage if you do not investigate on your own behalf.
Most cases against relating to a truck accident must be brought within two years of the accident and in wrongful death cases there is a three-year statute of limitation. The specific compensation you can seek depends entirely on your individual case. It is important a qualified attorney reviews the facts of the cases and seeks out the information to best support your case.
These types of cases can be quite complex and require the expertise of a seasoned Oregon personal injury attorney. Call our office today for your free initial consultation.
