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Tacoma Truck Accident Attorneys

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If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Tacoma or anywhere in Washington, the road to justice and compensation begins with experienced legal representation. Experiencing an commercial truck accident can be life-altering and overwhelming, but the team at Freeman Law Firm, Inc. will guide you through every step of the case process. Don’t let your rights be compromised. With our experienced truck accident lawyers by your side, you’ll have the confidence to leave matters in our hands, while you focus on healing and moving forward.
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Trucking accidents often cause severe injuries or fatalities, leaving victims and their families with overwhelming challenges. If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash with a commercial truck in Washington State, we can help you. Our Tacoma Truck Accident Attorneys will explain your rights and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (253) 383-4500 today to discuss your case.

On This Page

Types of Truck Accidents

Causes Of Truck Accidents

Types Of Injuries Sustained from Truck Accidents

Who Could Be Liable for A Truck Accident?

Potential Compensation in Truck Accident Lawsuits

Filing A Truck Accident Lawsuit or Insurance Claim

Bringing A Truck Accident Wrongful Death Claim

A Lawyers Role in An Insurance Claim or Lawsuit

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Proven Success in Truck Accident Cases

Types of Truck Accidents

A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and at highway speeds that mass produces forces that passenger vehicles cannot absorb. The type of truck, how the crash happened, and who was operating the vehicle all affect who can be held liable and what compensation may be available to you. How a crash happens directly affects how liability is established and what your case is worth, and Freeman Law Firm's Tacoma truck accident attorneys have handled cases across every type.

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife accident happens when a truck's trailer swings outward while the cab continues forward, creating a folding angle that puts the trailer across one or more lanes of traffic. Sudden braking, slippery roads, and brake system failures are the most frequent causes, and the resulting crash can sweep multiple vehicles into the collision path.

Liability in a jackknife case can extend beyond the driver. Under RCW 46.37.010, trucking companies have a duty to keep their vehicles in safe operating condition, and a brake failure that contributes to a jackknife can expose the company to direct liability alongside the driver.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents happen when a truck tips onto its side or roof, with high speeds on curves and improperly loaded cargo as the leading causes. RCW 46.61.655 requires that cargo be secured so nothing shifts, leaks, or escapes during transit, and when an unsecured or unbalanced load contributes to a rollover, both the driver and the trucking company can be held liable for the resulting damages.

Rear-End Collisions

A truck that follows too closely, gets distracted, or fails to adjust speed for poor weather conditions can slam into the vehicle ahead with little or no warning. RCW 46.61.145 requires drivers to maintain a following distance that is reasonable and prudent for conditions, and when a truck driver fails to do so, that violation becomes direct evidence of negligence in your case.

Blind Spot Accidents

A commercial truck's blind spots extend up to 20 feet in front of the cab, 30 feet behind the trailer, and across entire lanes on both sides, and a driver who changes lanes or turns without accounting for those zones can crush a passenger vehicle that was never visible to them. RCW 46.61.305 requires drivers to confirm lanes are clear before any lane change or turn, and RCW 46.37.400 mandates mirrors that meet specific field-of-view requirements. A violation of either statute strengthens your case that the driver's failure to see you was a breach of a duty they were required by law to meet.

T-Bone Accidents

When a truck runs a red light or fails to yield at an intersection and strikes the side of another vehicle, the force of impact is absorbed almost entirely by the door panel and frame closest to the point of contact. RCW 46.61.050 requires drivers to obey all traffic control devices, and RCW 46.61.180 governs right-of-way obligations, and a violation of either can be used as direct evidence of negligence in your case.

Under-Ride Accidents

An under-ride accident occurs when a smaller vehicle slides beneath the rear or side of a truck, and the result is frequently fatal because the truck's frame shears off the top of the passenger compartment. Federal regulations require trucks to have under-ride guards, and RCW 46.37.517 mandates reflective tape and lighting on trailers to make trucks visible in low-light conditions. When a guard is missing, damaged, or non-compliant, or when a trailer lacks required lighting, the trucking company's failure to meet those standards becomes central to your case.

Head-On Collisions

A head-on collision between a truck and a passenger vehicle is one of the deadliest crash types on the road, with the combined speed of both vehicles multiplying the force of impact. Wrong-way driving, overcorrecting, driver fatigue, and impairment are the most frequent causes, and RCW 46.61.150, which prohibits driving on the wrong side of the road, provides a direct statutory basis for establishing negligence when a truck crosses the centerline and strikes an oncoming vehicle.

Types of Injuries Sustained from Truck Accidents

Injuries in truck accident cases tend to be categorically different from those in car accidents, with higher rates of permanent disability, traumatic brain injury, and fatalities. Injury severity drives the value of a truck accident case, and the documentation of your diagnosis, prognosis, and projected future medical needs is what translates physical harm into measurable compensation. Freeman Law Firm's truck accident attorneys work with medical experts to build that documentation into a case that reflects the full extent of your losses.

Physical Injuries

One of the most immediate impacts of a truck accident is physical injury. The force of a collision involving a commercial truck can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to fatal.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Bone fractures are common in truck accidents. Whether it's a simple fracture or a compound break, the recovery time and medical costs can be extensive. This can affect your ability to work and carry out everyday activities.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Another severe injury is damage to the spinal cord, which can lead to paralysis in the worst cases. Washington law recognizes the lifelong suffering and costs associated with spinal cord injuries, and you may be entitled to compensation under Washington's personal injury statutes, specifically RCW 4.16.080, which sets the statute of limitations for such cases.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, can result from the violent jolts often experienced in truck accidents. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Cognitive and physical functions could be permanently affected.

Emotional And Psychological Injuries

Less visible but equally damaging are the emotional and psychological injuries that can result from a truck accident.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Accident survivors often experience PTSD, affecting their ability to drive or even ride in a vehicle again. Emotional distress is also recognized under Washington law, and you can claim compensation for psychological treatment.

Anxiety And Depression

The impact of an accident can lead to long-term anxiety and depression, especially when coping with physical injuries or the loss of a loved one. These conditions can require ongoing therapy and medication.

Financial Implications: The Added Burden

Medical bills pile up quickly for truck accident victims when treating these types of severe injuries. Moreover, you may find yourself unable to work, either temporarily or permanently. Washington's wrongful death and personal injury laws allow for the recovery of lost wages and medical expenses.

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Who Could Be Liable for A Truck Accident?

Determining liability in truck accidents can be more challenging than in standard car collisions because negligence may touch multiple parties, including the trucking company. Freeman Law Firm's Tacoma truck accident attorneys identify every party whose negligence contributed to your crash and pursue compensation from each of them.

The Driver

Obviously, the truck driver will be one of the first people to be investigated for liability in a truck accident. Under Washington law, every driver on the road owes a “duty of reasonable care” to others. If a truck driver engages in negligent actions like speeding, driving under the influence, or failing to obey traffic signs, they can be held directly liable for injuries caused.

The Vehicle Manufacturer

In some cases, the truck accident might occur due to a mechanical failure that is no fault of the driver or the trucking company. If a defect in the truck led to the accident, the vehicle manufacturer could be held liable under product liability laws. Washington has adopted product liability laws that allow for the manufacturer to be held responsible if their product is found to be defective and leads to injuries.

Maintenance Providers

If a third-party maintenance provider was responsible for keeping the truck in safe operating condition, they could also be held liable if their negligence led to a mechanical failure that caused the accident.

Other Drivers

In some multi-vehicle accidents involving a truck, other drivers may share some of the blame. Washington honors a “pure comparative negligence” legal theory. This means that even if your actions or inactions contributed to the cause of your collision, you can still pursue damages from others, although your recovery would be reduced by your percentage of fault.

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies can be held liable for the actions of their drivers under the principle of “vicarious liability.” In Washington State, if an employee is acting within the scope of their employment when they cause an accident, the employer could also be found liable. Additionally, trucking companies have specific responsibilities to maintain their fleets and ensure that their drivers are adequately trained. Failing in these areas could make them liable.

Cargo Loaders

Improperly loaded cargo can make a truck unstable and prone to tipping over or shedding its load onto the roadway, causing an accident. The parties responsible for loading the truck could be held liable for any injuries resulting from their negligence in making sure that the cargo was safely and correctly loaded.

Government Entities

Although less common, in some circumstances, government entities could be held responsible for a truck accident. If the accident was caused by poorly maintained roads, lack of adequate signage, or other failures of infrastructure, a government entity could be liable under Washington’s Tort Claims Act. However, claims against government entities are subject to strict filing deadlines and other procedural requirements.

Filing A Truck Accident Lawsuit or Insurance Claim

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Washington State, you’re likely going through physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Whether you’re considering filing a personal injury claim or a wrongful death claim relating to a truck accident, our team will support you through every step and work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.

Consult With an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

One of the first steps to take after a truck accident is to consult with a qualified personal injury attorney who is well-versed in Washington State law. Lawyers can assess your case, guide you through the process, and help you understand whether it’s better to file an insurance claim or go straight to a lawsuit.
Statute of Limitations: RCW 4.16.080
Under Washington law, you have a specific timeframe, known as a statute of limitations, within which you must file your lawsuit. According to RCW 4.16.080, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim.

Collect Vital Evidence

The evidence you collect is important for both insurance claims and lawsuits. Police reports, medical records, and photographs of the accident scene can significantly impact your case’s outcome. If possible, gather testimonies from eyewitnesses, as they could prove useful later.
Mandatory Reporting: RCW 46.52.030
Washington law, under RCW 46.52.030, mandates that drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury or death must report the incident to the appropriate law enforcement agency. These reports may serve as critical evidence in your case.

Filing An Insurance Claim

After a truck accident in Washington, you’ll likely start by filing an insurance claim by contacting your insurance provider and providing them with the evidence and details of the accident. Insurance companies will typically try to settle, but don't accept any offer without consulting your attorney, as the initial offer is often far less than what you’re entitled to.
RCW 48.18.545
Washington State requires insurers to settle claims promptly and fairly. When they fail to do this it can be considered bad faith, which could make the insurance company liable for more than just the claim amount.

Preparing For a Lawsuit

If you can’t reach an agreement through the insurance claim process, or if your damages far exceed what an insurance claim can cover, then a lawsuit may be your next course of action. One of the first steps your attorney will take will be drafting a complaint to outline your allegations and the damages you’re seeking. This complaint is then filed with the appropriate court to initiate the lawsuit.

Legal Process and Trial

Once the lawsuit is filed, both parties engage in a discovery process to exchange evidence. Negotiations often continue in parallel to see if a settlement can be reached before trial. If no agreement is reached, the case goes to trial, where both sides present their arguments and evidence. The judge or jury will then decide the outcome, including the compensation amount, if any.
RCW 4.44.090: How a Jury Decides Your Case in a Trial
In Washington, according to RCW 4.44.090, jurors in a civil case like a personal injury lawsuit are typically instructed to determine the facts based on a “preponderance of the evidence,” which means it’s more likely than not that your allegations are true.

Hiring the Right Tacoma Truck Accident Lawyer

Understanding Washington State law can be intimidating when you’re already dealing with the impact of a truck accident. From understanding the statutes of limitations to knowing where to file your lawsuit, each step carries its own set of challenges. Hiring a qualified Tacoma truck accident attorney can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve and it's best to consult a Washington truck accident lawyer as soon as possible following your accident.

Bringing A Truck Accident Wrongful Death Claim

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If you’ve lost a loved one in a truck accident, the emotional and financial toll can be devastating. You’re not alone. In Washington State, you may have the option of bringing a wrongful death claim to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The following explains the specifics of filing a wrongful death lawsuit in Washington State, particularly relating to truck accidents. 

What Constitutes Wrongful Death?

In Washington State, wrongful death is defined under RCW 4.20.010. According to this law, when a person’s death is caused due to the wrongful act, neglect, or default of another person, a personal representative of the deceased may bring a legal action against the responsible party. This lawsuit is to recover economic and noneconomic damages sustained by the beneficiaries of the deceased. The law applies regardless of whether the death was caused under circumstances that amount to a felony.

Types Of Damages You Can Recover

In Washington State, you can claim both economic and noneconomic damages. Economic damages include tangible costs such as medical bills and loss of income. Noneconomic damages pertain to intangible losses, like pain and suffering, loss of love and companionship, and loss of emotional support.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim?

According to RCW 4.20.010, the personal representative of the deceased person is authorized to bring a wrongful death action. The economic and noneconomic damages are then distributed to the beneficiaries listed in RCW 4.20.020. These beneficiaries may include the deceased person’s spouse, children, or parents if the deceased is a minor.

Death Of a Child: Special Considerations

If the deceased is a child, RCW 4.24.010 provides specific rules for filing a wrongful death claim. A parent or legal guardian who has regularly contributed to the child’s support or had significant involvement in the child’s life may bring or join a wrongful death claim. “Significant involvement” is defined as providing emotional, psychological, or financial support to the child near the time of death or the incident causing death. This action may be maintained only if the child has no spouse, state-registered domestic partner, or children.

The Role of a Truck Accident Lawyer

Why You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer in Washington State

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you may face numerous challenges, including legal issues and potential disputes with trucking companies or insurance providers. Your attorney will help you get through all of this with expertise and compassion.

Gathering Evidence: The Groundwork for A Solid Claim

Building a truck accident case starts with a thorough investigation, pulling accident reports, eyewitness accounts, black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records to establish what caused the crash and who bears responsibility. Washington's comparative negligence law under RCW 4.22.005 allows fault to be divided among multiple parties, and if you were to be found partially at fault, your compensation would be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies: The Art of The Deal

Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, and their adjusters are trained to minimize payouts from the first contact. Without an attorney, a settlement offer can look reasonable while falling well short of covering your long-term medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Freeman Law Firm's truck accident attorneys counter those tactics by building a documented case for the full value of your losses before any number is put on the table, which changes the negotiating dynamic entirely.

The Medical Side of Your Case

Freeman Law Firm's truck accident attorneys work with medical professionals to assess the full scope of your injuries, including long-term impact and projected future medical expenses, because compensation for future care depends on how thoroughly your diagnosis and prognosis are documented and presented. Incomplete medical evidence is one of the most common reasons truck accident victims recover less than their injuries actually warrant.

Drafting Legal Documents: Putting It All in Writing

Once the information is gathered and negotiations are underway, your lawyer will draft the necessary legal documents. These can range from initial demand letters to the insurance company to filing a formal lawsuit if an amicable settlement isn't reached. Knowing how to draft these documents, in compliance with Washington's civil procedure rules can make or break your case.

If Your Case Goes to Trial

If settlement negotiations don't produce adequate compensation, Freeman Law Firm's truck accident attorneys are prepared to take your case to trial, presenting evidence, expert testimony, and legal arguments to establish the other party's liability before a judge and jury. Washington's three-year statute of limitations under RCW 4.16.080 governs how long you have to file, and missing that deadline forfeits your right to pursue compensation regardless of how strong your case is.

Calculating Damages: What Is Your Claim Worth?

Calculating the true extent of your damages is a difficult process. It includes not just your medical expenses and property damage, but also non-economic damages like pain and suffering. In Washington, there’s no cap on these types of damages, but having an experienced lawyer who understands how to make these calculations can help you get the maximum compensation.

Get the Best Truck Accident Lawyers on Your Side

As your advocate in your claim, a truck accident lawyer in Washington State can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, understand the medical implications, draft essential legal documents, guide you through the court system, and calculate your damages accurately. Given the complicated laws and high stakes involved, working with a good personal injury attorney highly impact the success of your claim.

At Freeman Law Firm, Inc., our experienced truck accident lawyers will be with you every step of the way, from investigating the incident to fighting for you in court. Time is of the essence in accident claims; don’t delay in securing the representation you need to address these legal challenges effectively. Call us today at (253) 383-4500 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Viewing or using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship with Freeman Law Firm, Inc. Case results depend on specific facts and cannot be guaranteed. For legal guidance for your individual situation, contact our office for a consultation.

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