The Oregon Department of Transportation reports that there are nearly 4,000 commercial truck accidents statewide each year. A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds, and these accidents can cause catastrophic, life-threatening injuries. At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, we have the experience to hold negligent truckers, negligent truck companies, and their insurers accountable. In this article, you will find an overview of things that an Oregon truck accident lawyer can do in your case.
Investigate the Truck Accident
Every serious crash requires an investigation. A Portland truck accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate your crash to determine exactly what happened. Among other things, they will gather evidence—from photographs to police reports to witness statements to black box data to maintenance records. Your lawyer can build a strong case by identifying negligent parties—such as the truck driver, trucking company, or truck manufacturer.
Help You Document Your Damages
Your damages must be well-documented in order to secure the maximum financial compensation. Accurate documentation of your damages is essential for fair compensation. Along with other types of damages, you may be able to recover for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Medical bills;
- Physical therapy;
- Loss of wages;
- Diminished earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long-term disability and
- Wrongful death.
Craft a Comprehensive Demand Letter
A demand letter is a type of document that outlines your claim and requests compensation from the at-fault party and/or their insurer. Your Oregon truck accident lawyer will carefully draft a demand letter. Along with other things, the letter will typically summarize the facts, explain liability, and detail your damages. A well-crafted demand letter often serves as the starting point for productive settlement negotiations.
Handle the Settlement Negotiations With Insurers
Insurers work to minimize payouts. They want to protect their own bottom line. A skilled Oregon truck accident lawyer will protect your best interests during negotiations. Along with other things, your lawyer can communicate directly with the insurer and counter lowball settlement proposals. Do not agree to settle your claims for less than you deserve.
File a Truck Accident Lawsuit (If Necessary)
If your truck accident injury claim cannot be settled, you need to file a personal injury lawsuit. A trial-tested Oregon semi-truck accident lawyer can help you take your case as far as it needs to go to get you justice and the absolute maximum financial compensation. Your attorney can handle all aspects of truck accident litigation—from drafting a legal complaint to representing you in court.
Set Up a Free Consultation With a Top-Tier Oregon Truck Accident Attorney
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, our Portland semi-truck accident lawyers provide aggressive, justice-focused advocacy to victims and their families. If you or your loved one was hurt in a commercial truck accident, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free case review. From our Portland office, we fight for the rights of truck accident victims throughout the region of Oregon.
