We have represented many trucking accident victims and their families. If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in a big rig accident in Oregon, we understand the extreme pain and financial devastation this misfortune has brought on you and your family. Unlike most car accident victims, trucking accidents almost invariably cause the victim excruciating pain, impairment, and in many cases, our clients can never return to work.

Big Rig Accident Factors

The scenarios surrounding big rig accidents are extensive. Any number of factors, or combination of factors, can contribute to a devastating accident. If you have been in an accident with one of these vehicles, then your case will have particular factors to consider. No two truck accidents are the same. Therefore, determining the exact causes of your accident are essential to the success of your case. 

Leading Causes of Big Rig Accidents

Truck driver errors cause a large percentage of big rig accidents. Big rigs are typically 20-30 times heavier than passenger vehicles. They also take longer to come to a complete stop. Some of the leading causes of big rig accidents due to truck driver error include:

• Fatigue
• Impaired driving
• distracted driving
• Lack of experience
• Speeding
• Failure to obey traffic laws
• Poor judgment

However, there are additional contributing factors. When it comes to loading the cargo on a big rig, it is complicated and takes precision. If a truck is loaded improperly, it can cause a sudden shift in weight which can cause the driver to lose control. 

Employer negligence is another leading cause. State and federal laws and regulations heavily regulate trucking companies. They are required by law to inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles regularly. Some leading cause of truck accidents caused by employer negligence include:

• Imposing unrealistic time constraints on drivers
• Failing to train drivers properly
• Encouraging or allowing drivers to violate hours of operation limitations
• Failing to inspect or maintain their trucks
• Failing to vet new hires thoroughly

Manufacturer errors and design defects can also lead to big rig accidents. If a truck has defective tires, suspension problems, steering issues, or faulty breaks and travels on the open road, the consequences can be deadly. In these cases, the manufacturer may be liable.

Oregon Big Rig Accident Lawyer

Because of the complex nature of trucking cases, insurance companies want to settle for as cheap and as quickly as they possibly can. They are happy when a big rig accident victim who does not know industry practices and regulations in trucking contacts them for a settlement agreement.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a big rig accident, don’t talk directly to the insurance company. They are not your friend and are not there to help you get the compensation you need and deserve. If the truck driver or trucking company is responsible for the accident, you need to seek financial compensation for everything from your medical expenses to lost income to the pain and suffering you have been subjected to endure. 

Contact the Miller & Hopp Truck Accident Lawyers for the help you need to recover physically and financially. Our big rig accident lawyers know how to handle the insurance companies and look for the evidence to prove that the driver or trucking company caused your accident. 

We have an intricate understanding of the trucking laws and regulations. We have extensive experience with the legal complexities involved in big rig accidents. We also understand the types of injuries victims can sustain, and we know what amount of compensation to seek based on your injuries. We don’t charge you unless we get money for your claim.