At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our truck accident lawyers in Portland are skilled and experienced. They advocate passionately for victims who suffer injuries. Large truck companies and their commercial insurance carriers must take responsibility for crashes caused by their negligence.
If you or a family member suffered injuries in a truck accident, we are here to help. We understand that truck crashes are some of the most serious and deadly types of personal injury cases. Contact us today for your free consultation with an experienced Portland truck accident attorney.
Truck Accident Statistics
A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. In 2017, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data shows trucks were responsible for over 116,000 injuries. Commercial trucks pulling a trailer are typically also around 72 feet long. For reference, that means large trucks are 20 or 30 times larger than passenger vehicles. Given the large size of semi-trucks, they pose an inherent safety hazard, which can lead to devastating truck crashes when accidents occur.
When truck accidents happen, the consequences are disproportionately likely to be devastating, even catastrophic, resulting in more severe injuries and fatalities. In 2022, the state reported 1,812 commercial truck accidents. These accidents caused 623 injuries and 74 deaths.
Truck accidents impact all communities, even larger urban areas. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) reported 221 tractor-trailer accidents in Portland in 2022. More than half of those accidents are classified as injury crashes.
Given the inherent risk, it is imperative that truckers and trucking companies put a strong emphasis on safety. They should never allow profits to come before people.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported almost 4,800 deaths from these crashes. This is a nine percent rise from last year.
Our truck accident attorneys in Portland, Oregon, have over 35 years of experience. We help clients with serious injuries and families who have lost loved ones in accidents. We are here to review your claim during a free and confidential assessment today.
What to Do if You Are Injured in a Truck Accident
After a commercial truck accident in Portland, it is common to feel stressed or overwhelmed by the process, especially when dealing with truck accident injuries. You need to take a proactive approach to protect yourself and your rights.
Here are four key steps to take after a large truck accident in Portland:
Stop Your Car and Call the Police: You should stop your vehicle, exchange relevant information, and stay at the scene of a truck accident. You should also report the crash to law enforcement, such as the Portland Police Department.
See a Doctor Right Away: Emergencies come first. A doctor should still evaluate all non-emergency injuries. Make sure that you get the care that you need to make a full recovery. Notably, without medical records, you will not be able to bring a claim.
Document the Scene: In Oregon, drivers determine truck accident liability based on fault. The more information you have about a crash, the better. Take pictures and get witness contact details.
Speak to a Lawyer Before an Insurer: No insurance company is on your side. Before you speak with an insurance adjuster, talk to a skilled semi-truck accident lawyer in Portland, OR. Our attorneys can help make sure you protect yourself.
How are Truck Accidents Different from Car Accidents?
Some important differences exist between commercial truck accidents and car accidents. Truck accident cases can be especially complex. For that reason, truck accident victims must have qualified legal representation.
You need a Portland, OR, truck accident lawyer who has experience in these cases. Here are some key differences to be aware of:
Serious Injuries More Likely to Happen: With truck accidents, serious injuries are more likely to occur. The big difference in size and weight between tractor-trailers and other vehicles can lead to more damage in a crash. For example, a fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. In contrast, an average passenger car weighs only around 3,000 pounds.
Federal Truck Safety Regulations: Truck drivers must follow strict federal rules, which are particularly relevant in truck accident claims. These rules do not apply to most passenger vehicles. These rules, set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), cover many operational standards. They include hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading. These rules are designed to ensure safety, but add complexity to the claims process.
Many Parties are Involved in Trucking: Another challenge associated with truck accident claims is that many different parties are often involved in commercial trucking operations. Potentially liable parties may include the truck driver, the trucking company, the owner of the truck, cargo loaders, and even manufacturers of truck parts. Each of these entities can play a role in contributing to an accident, whether through negligent actions or failure to comply with safety standards. A thorough investigation of any truck accident is a must.
Recovering Financial Compensation for a Semi-Truck Crash in Portland
Were you injured in a commercial truck accident in Portland? You have the right under Oregon law to seek compensation for the full value of your damages.
However, it is important to emphasize that you cannot rely on any trucking company or any insurance company to look out for your interests. They always put their own bottom line first. Our Portland truck accident lawyers help injured victims fight to maximize their settlement, including for:
Property damage, such as vehicle repairs;
Emergency medical treatment;
Ambulance fees and emergency room care costs;
Hospital bills and other health costs;
Physical therapy/rehabilitative care;
Lost wages and diminished earning power;
Pain, suffering, and mental distress;
Long-term physical disability; and
Wrongful death of a family member.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Commercial Truck Accident?
In Oregon, any party whose negligence contributed to a commercial truck accident can be held legally liable for the resulting damages. Some common defendants in truck accident cases are:
Truck Driver: The driver of the truck can be held liable if the accident was a result of their negligence, such as distracted driving, fatigue, or violating traffic laws.
Trucking Company: Often, the company employing the truck driver is liable under the legal principle of “respondeat superior.” It holds employers responsible for employees.
Cargo Loaders: The people who load the truck’s cargo can be held responsible if an accident happens due to bad loading.
Truck Owner: If different from the driver or trucking company, the owner of the truck can be held liable for neglecting maintenance, which could lead to a vehicle malfunction.
Truck or parts manufacturers can be held responsible if a faulty part caused the accident. These are product liability claims.
Oregon is a Fault-Based Commercial Truck Accident State
Oregon is a fault-based motor vehicle crash state, including commercial truck accidents. A truck driver or trucking company can be responsible for your injuries. You must show that their carelessness caused the crash. Examples of negligence include:
Fatigued Driving: Truckers who exceed the legally permitted driving hours without adequate rest are at an increased risk of being involved in a crash.
Speeding: Speeding is dangerous. It contributes to a significant share of serious commercial truck accidents in Oregon.
Distracted Driving: In order to safely operate a large commercial truck, a driver must keep his or her full attention on the road.
Improper Loading: If a truck is not properly loaded or if cargo is not properly secured, it can cause a crash.
Lack of Maintenance: Failing to perform regular maintenance on trucks can lead to catastrophic failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts.
Under ORS § 31.600, truck accident claims are subject to a modified comparative fault standard. Each party will be liable for its “share” of the fault. You can still get compensation if you are partly at fault for a truck accident. However, if your fault is 51 percent or more, you cannot get any compensation.
A Two-Year Statute of Limitations for Semi-Truck Accident Injury Cases
Under Oregon law (ORS § 12.110), there is a two-year statute of limitations for truck accident injury claims. Do not wait too long to take action. If the statute of limitations expires, the truck company and/or its insurer will move to dismiss your case without a hearing. In other words, you could lose your right to recover compensation.
The sooner you take action, the better. Speak to a Portland, OR, semi-truck accident attorney right away after a bad crash.
What are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Portland, Oregon?
Large trucks are heavy and big. Because of this, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires all drivers to pass written and driving tests. They must do this to get a commercial driver’s license before driving a semi-truck.
They also control the driver’s work hours, driving records, and job status. They do this by setting strict Federal rules for the trucking companies that hire them.
They also set up procedures and systems for maintenance and loading. This helps keep the public safe from the many moving parts of the trucking industry.
Sadly, even with all the safety measures, negligence is still the main cause of truck accidents in Oregon and the U.S.
That includes:
Truck driver negligence in the form of aggressive, fatigued, or distracted driving, speeding, and drug or alcohol use
Trucking companies can be negligent if they hire inexperienced drivers. They may also fail to train these drivers properly. Additionally, they might not conduct background checks or give random drug and alcohol tests.
Maintenance negligence that leads to brake failures, tire blowouts, transmission malfunctions, and damaged safety equipment
Manufacturer negligence for failing to recall or warn of defective trucks or parts
Cargo loaders or another third party that fails to load the trucks properly
Any group of people or companies mentioned above may be held responsible. This is true if multiple parties were careless in operating the truck. Their actions could lead to an accident that causes injuries or death.
What are the Most Common Types of Oregon Truck Accident Injuries?
If you were hurt in a truck accident, it was likely a traumatic experience. This may still be an emotional hurdle in your healing. Many people find this situation common and should consider it when pursuing the proper compensation for their unique injury circumstances.
Other common truck accident injuries can include, but are not limited to:
Because of the serious nature of truck accidents, there is no limit to how each injury victim’s injuries will affect their life directly after the accident and going forward. Our truck accident lawyers in Portland, Oregon will account for each detail in our claim against the negligent party or parties.
Portland’s I-5 Corridor: A Hub for Dangerous Truck Accidents
Portland’s I-5 corridor, a crucial artery of the Pacific Northwest’s transportation network, sees over 150,000 vehicles daily, with commercial trucks making up approximately 12% of this traffic.
The stretch between the Marquam Bridge and the I-5/I-84 interchange has been identified as particularly hazardous, with state transportation data showing a 40% higher incident rate for truck-related accidents compared to other similar interstate segments. This heavily trafficked section, combined with Portland’s challenging weather conditions and the corridor’s complex merge patterns, creates unique risks for both commercial and passenger vehicles.
The impact of I-5 truck accidents extends beyond the immediate Portland metro area, affecting communities from Vancouver, WA to Wilsonville, OR.
Recent Oregon Department of Transportation data reveals that nearly 35% of all commercial truck accidents in the Portland region occur along the I-5 corridor, with a significant concentration around major industrial areas such as Swan Island and the Columbia Corridor. Truck accidents often lead to worse outcomes than regular vehicle crashes. Statistics show that truck accidents on I-5 are three times more likely to cause serious injuries or deaths. This is especially true during busy traffic times, which are from 6-9 AM and 3-7 PM.
Large Vehicle Accidents in Portland, Oregon, are Caused by More than Semi-Trucks
Traffic collisions involving large trucks occur throughout Portland and Oregon each day. In many cases, these commercial vehicles are not semi-trucks.
Our personal injury lawyers also handle cases that were caused by different types of commercial vehicles, including:
Box trucks
Buses
Concrete trucks
Corporate cars, trucks, and SUVs
Delivery vehicles
Dump trucks
Flatbed trucks
Heavy equipment vehicles
Trash trucks
The Law Offices of Jon Friedman offer personal attention and experience to assist you from the first meeting through the end of your claim. We can help recover losses brought on by your injuries including medical bills, wage loss, pain and suffering and interference with your ability to lead your normal daily living activities.
At The Law Offices Of Jon Friedman, Our Portland Personal Injury Attorneys Also Focus On The Following Practice Areas:
Contact Our Portland Truck Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation Today
The Law Offices of Jon Friedman offers free initial consultations to discuss the details of your truck accident claim to pursue a fast and fair settlement.
If you believe you have a claim and have questions or concerns about how to proceed, please get in touch with our Portland personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Jon Friedman today by calling 503-242-1440 for a free, confidential assessment of your claim.
We are a family-run law firm that truly cares about the best interests of our clients. Attorneys Jon M. Friedman and Jon D. Friedman are a father and son team who are dedicated to fighting for justice for the people who need support the most—victims and families.
With a record of client testimonials and results in complex cases, our Portland semi-truck accident attorneys are standing by. When you contact us at our Portland law office, you will be able to work with an Oregon semi-truck accident lawyer who can:
Listen to what you have to say and answer questions about your case.
Investigate your semi-truck accident—gathering evidence to prove fault;
Represent you in settlement negotiations with insurance companies; and
Take action to protect your rights and help you secure the maximum compensation.
Schedule Your Free Consultation With a Top-Tier Portland Truck Accident Lawyer
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our Portland semi-truck accident attorneys are standing by, ready to protect your rights and your interests. Are you searching for a reliable legal representation for truck accident cases near you in Portland, please contact the Law Offices of Jon Friedman today by calling 503-242-1440 for a free confidential assessment of your claim. From our Portland law office, we handle semi-truck accident claims in Multnomah County and throughout the wider region.
You should hire a Portland truck accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident. It is essential to seek legal advice before speaking with the insurance company or accepting any settlement offers. A truck accident attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and represent you in court if necessary.
A Portland truck accident attorney can help you in many ways, including: Investigating the accident, Negotiating with the insurance company and Filing a lawsuit.
While you can certainly try to negotiate with insurance companies on your own, it is generally not recommended. Insurance companies have teams of attorneys and adjusters who are trained to minimize payouts, and it can be difficult to get a fair settlement without legal representation.
The length of time it takes to resolve a truck accident case can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and other factors. Some cases may settle quickly, while others may take several months or even years.
Evidence that may be important in a truck accident case includes witness statements, police reports, photos and videos of the accident scene, medical records, and more. Your attorney can help you gather and organize this evidence to support your claim.
In many cases, it may be possible to sue the trucking company for a truck accident. Trucking companies must ensure that they properly train their drivers, maintain their vehicles, and comply with federal and state regulations in their operations. If they fail in these duties and an accident occurs, they may face liability for damages.
When choosing a truck accident lawyer, look for someone with experience in similar cases. They should have a good record of success and value their clients. You should find a lawyer who offers a free consultation. This way, you can discuss your case and determine if they are a good fit for you.
Jon and his staff were incredibly professional, respectful and fought hard for me and my case. Not only did they help me navigate this incredibly complicated process but I felt that Jon and the people he works with legitimately took my wellbeing seriously and made sure I understood and was on board at every juncture. Regardless of the roadblocks that...
- Mike V.
Mr. Friedman is an excellent attorney and his guidance and responsiveness was not only helpful but above and beyond the service I expected. Jon and his team are outstanding and highly recommend.
- Aaron L.
When I first contacted Jon Friedman, he was very patient and listened to every word I told him about my fall and injuries. He asked questions and seemed genuinely concerned about me and asked if I had been seen for my injuries. I had been seen initially, however, I didn't have insurance to continue treatment, so Jon helped in guiding...
- Jena L.
A friend of mine recommended Jon, after hearing I had been in an auto accident. From our first phone call, through the consultation, all the way to the end, Jon was professional, affable and on top of everything. He urged me to advocate for myself when visiting doctors to make sure I received the proper care and frequently checked in...
- Cher M.
I was involved in a motorcycle accident back in 2019 and needed legal council to proceed towards addressing financial hardships and guidance. I looked up several lawyers online and Jon was the one who I felt had the knowledge, experience, and personality that could really help with my case. Jon was with me from the first day I called him...
- Bradley L.
I highly recommend Jon Friedman to anyone who is looking for legal representation. After getting injured in an accident, I needed someone who would provide guidance in an unfamiliar and extremely stressful to me situation. I couldn't have asked for a better representative and advisor than Jon. He expertly took over the unpleasant business of dealing with multiple agencies and...
- Natalya W.
Jon & his staff were straight-forward, speedy & reliable when helping us win our personal injury case. Jon was willing to take the extra time needed to explain each step in the legal process, in terms we could understand. My case revolved around my young daughter, whom Jon treated delicately & with a father's sensitivity. I truly feel that protecting...
- Erin B.
Care and Compassion may be unusual adjectives to describe an attorney, but combine that with Expertise and Advocacy, and you have Jon Friedman! Jon is an incredible lawyer who knows the ins and outs of Personal Injury cases. Jon is diligent in his advocacy of client rights and is invested in the outcome of his clients. I was in an...
- Steph H.
Excellent lawyer, but even better person. Jon came very highly recommended, but still managed to exceed all expectations. He provided expert legal advice in connection with a motor vehicle accident I was involved in that ultimately required neck surgery. Jon is an open and honest, no-nonsense lawyer that truly cares about his clients. He was extremely responsive, always available, and...
- P Hayes
Most of the times there is nothing good you could say about an accident, however, in my case there was one good thing and it was that I got to have the guidance and support of this Lawyer, Jon. I did not at any point feel alone throughout this whole 2 year process. His professionalism was impeccable at every moment....
- Sandra J.
Jon was a huge help in navigating the ins and outs of my car accident. I would retain his legal services if needed in the future and recommend him. Thanks again Jon for all the help.
- Thomas
When I was seriously injured in a pedestrian vs. automobile accident I didnt know what to do. The medical bills were going to be stacking up, which I couldn't afford, and I did nothing wrong. I did some searching and found Jon. After meeting with him he immediately took charge of my case and everything was taken care of from...
- Tony L.
Thank you Jon for helping me.
- Jeanne G.
Jon is great! He has helped my family through some tough times. He is a tireless advocate and won't give up until he can find a solution. Jon communicates every step of the way through the legal process and always involved us in all the major decisions. He helped us navigate the confusing legal world. We would highly recommend him...
- Liz K.
Jon is amazing. So much so that I have hired him TWICE. Being in an accident SUCKS. The insurance company-- even your own company-- is out for them, and them only. You need someone to fight for you. That's Jon. He doesn't just sit back and collect... he WORKS for you. Fights for you. And is so proactive. He hires...
- Katie B.
Jon Friedman is very good at what he does. Jon was very patient, professional, and responsive when he helped me with a recent MVA. Jon explained the process well and made sure I always involved and informed. I highly recommend Jon Friedman and would used him again in a heartbeat. Thank you Jon!
- Anonymous
Jon was caring, knowledgable, and worked hard to represent me with my injury claim. Would certainly recommend him to others. I now have peace of mind and can go on with my life. Dorothy
- Dorothy M.
Jon was the best support I could have had through two long years. Sometimes I'd just want to give up. He'd stop, explain what I had to do and why; the process wouldn't look so daunting. I've been around personal injury cases for decades. I've never seen a lawyer who is better at helping people through the parts of the...
- Darlene W.
Over 25 years ago my husband was in an accident. Jon won him an outstanding settlement. Fast forward. I am in an accident. We didn't know who to call until we remembered Jon. I called him and once again he came through. We just settled my claim last week and it was everything that we had asked for. I would...
- Lorrie
I didn't realize I needed the services of an attorney until it was almost too late to make a claim. Jon made sure everything was completed quickly and smoothly and his compassion really made it less stressful for me. He was very clear in guiding me through the insurance and legal processes and thanks to Jon, I have a settlement...
- Maya K.
I would recommend Jon Friedman to anyone! He exceeded all of my expectations and helped me obtain a generous settlement. I was involved in a motor vehicle accident that required 2 surgeries on my neck. Jon helped me every step of the way. I would have been lost without his expertise. Jon treated me as a individual and not "just...
- Michele J.
Mr. Friedman cuts to the chase and lets you know up front exactly what is going on and if you have a valid issue. He is dependable, follows through with his promises, calls in assistance when needed, and is forthright and fair in conclusion. I give him 5 stars because he earned 5 stars. I highly recommend Jon. Thank you.
- Jan N.
If you are looking for an attorney to represent you to the fullest... I will admit that John Friedman is the lawyer you are looking for! Yes there are a lot of lawyers out there, but will they bend over backwards for you? Jon will! He translate and put things in writing to where "YOU" can understand it. The insurance...
- Asia V.
My family will forever be grateful to John for his kind and persevering help for me after my injury. It is very lonely and scary to recover and rebuild your life after a major injury. Having John as my advocate gave me hope and allowed me to focus on getting healthy once again. I was impressed at John's abilities to...
- Patty M.
I have known Jon Friedman for twenty years and never thought the occasion would happen where I would need his services...but as life goes I was involved in a serious accident and thought that I could handle the insurance company claims adjustor and all the pressure from the physical healing, work, and negotiations. I was in way over my head...
- Brian B.
If there was a single highlight to being in a car accident, it was being able to work with Jon Friedman. Jon was referred to me by friend of mine after I was involved in a fairly bad car accident. Jon went above and beyond to make sure that I was comfortable, taken care of, and got everything I deserved....
- Geoff S.
I didn't want to hire a personal injury attorney but the car insurance company was giving me the run around and didn't even want to pay my medical bills. So I called around and found this place he has been honest, upfront with the whole process and I would recommend him to anyone who has been injured in the Portland...
- James J.
It was a pleasure meeting and working with you. No words my thanks. I appreciate everything you have done. Thank you for caring about me as one of your clients. That’s special and hard to find. You are one of a kind. Also, thank you for being straight forward and honest with me. You treated me like I’m a someone,...
- Leeann B.
Dear Jon Friedman I want to thank you so much for obtaining a VERY satisfactory settlement in my accident injury case. I felt I was well represented by you! Your constant communication made me feel that I was your first priority, though I realize you had a large case load with other clients. As a manager in a large organization...
- Michael
A friend referred me to see Jon Friedman at a very low point in my life. Three months earlier I’d been hit in two auto accidents within 20 days. I thought, initially, that the pain I was experiencing afterward was a matter of muscle sprains and that if I saw a chiropractor, the pain would go away within a month...
- Jeannie H.
Jon Friedman helped me to an extent I could never have expected.I was hurt in a car accident. My initial attorney came well recommended but was frequently unavailable and was not communicating with me about very important issues. It was very stressful and I felt that I was on my own.That changed when I found and consulted with Jon Friedman....
- Michael T.
In 2010, while waiting at a signal light, our car was ‘rear-ended’, resulting in its total loss. We sustained severe injuries to multiple body areas, including the need for a hip replacement. We were referred to Jon Friedman, attorney, to guide us through the complicated process of MVA litigation. From our initial meeting we realized Mr. Friedman was a patient...
- Dorothy and Hap S.
I was involved in an auto accident on Jan,6,2013. I found Jon Friedman online or maybe by fate. I personally had no car insurance but the person that wrecked my truck did. I did not know that their insurance would cover me. I had extensive medical bills but my personal health care provider also did not cover auto accidents. Jon...
- Carl B.
Jon was so wonderful to work with. He was always available to answer my questions and concerns in a way that I was able to understand. Jon is a straight shooter and definitely someone you’d want in your corner to ensure that you are not taken advantage of. Jon is very compassionate, caring and very good at what he does....
- The Josephs
After my car accident in May 2009; I was referred to Jon Friedman Attorney; I am very thankful for that referral. Jon worked on my case everyday for many, many months. It was not easy at times & I had many, many questions for him during my case. Each time I asked a question, he had an answer; if not...
- Caroline
Attorney Jon Friedman has all the experience and dedication any person would want in a lawyer. I appreciate his drive and determination. He is focused, and motivated to help.
- A. Connett
Jon – I should have contacted you from the start. After the accident I thought everything would go smoothly and I could handle it on my own. My mistake. I am fortunate that I got in touch with you. Once you had the info you took the ball and ran with it. You had many suggestions that I had not...
- Anonymous
Jon, I found your place page when I google’d for your phone number. As I plan to tell you on the phone when I call: I can’t thank you enough for helping me after my car accident. I am in such a good place now thanks to your help and patient guidance! I was amazed at all of the details...
- Rhonda D.
Jon is passionate about helping his clients AND a pleasure to work with.
- Anonymous
Hello, My name is Dale J. Finding an attorney is never easy or fun, especially if you need one due to a traffic accident. I was in severe pain, not working and starting to build a huge mountain of doctor bills. That’s when a friend of mine said, Go See Jon Friedman !!! He Will Help You !!! During my...
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our truck accident lawyers in Portland are skilled and experienced. They advocate passionately for victims who suffer injuries. Large truck companies and their commercial insurance carriers must take responsibility for crashes caused by their negligence.
