Portland Truck Accident Lawyer
Fighting for Maximum Justice Against Commercial Vehicle Giants
Over 15 Years Serving Multnomah County
Portland Experience
Why You Should Talk To A Lawyer Who Understands Portland's Trucking Landscape
Deep knowledge of freight corridors, federal regulations, and Multnomah County courts
A truck accident on I-5 near the Rivergate Industrial District is fundamentally different from a typical car crash. The stakes are higher, the laws are more complex, and the defendants have virtually unlimited resources to fight your claim. We understand the intricacies of Portland's commercial trucking environment.
There are many aspects to a Portland trucking accident case you may not consider. We can help you explore your options during a free consultation. We build strong cases because we understand:
- • Portland's Major Freight Corridors: We investigate accidents on the most dangerous trucking routes, including I-5, I-84, I-205, and surface streets like N Columbia Boulevard and NE Marine Drive—roads that are part of Portland's High Crash Network where 62% of traffic deaths occur on just 8% of city streets.
- • Industrial Zones & Loading Areas: We know the hazardous truck traffic patterns around the Rivergate Industrial District, Swan Island, and the Columbia Corridor, where massive vehicles navigate tight spaces and create constant conflicts with passenger cars.
- • Federal Trucking Regulations: We're well versed in Hours of Service rules, weight limits, mandatory rest periods, and electronic logging devices (ELDs) that often reveal crucial evidence of driver fatigue or company pressure to violate safety rules.
- • Multnomah County Courts: We navigate the specific procedures of the Multnomah County Circuit Court, where your injury claim will be filed—a completely different venue with specific local rules and experienced judges who understand complex commercial vehicle litigation.
We don't just practice law in Portland; this is our home. We are committed to making I-5, I-84, and our surface streets safer by holding negligent trucking companies accountable for their dangerous practices.
Understanding Portland's Deadly Truck Accident Landscape
Where freight traffic meets urban density
The High Crash Network & Truck Traffic
Portland's position as the Pacific Northwest's primary freight hub creates a perfect storm of danger. Our city sits at the intersection of three major interstate highways, handles cargo from the Port of Portland, and serves as the distribution center for the entire region. This means our roads are saturated with massive commercial vehicles—and ordinary drivers pay the price.
Portland's data-driven High Crash Network identifies the 30 most dangerous streets and intersections in our city. Many of these deadly locations involve truck traffic:
- • Interstate 5 Corridor: The backbone of West Coast freight traffic, carrying over 150,000 vehicles daily through Portland, with trucks making up 15-20% of the volume during peak freight hours
- • I-84 Through the Columbia River Gorge: The primary route for freight heading east, with steep grades, sharp curves, and frequent weather hazards
- • I-205 Bypass: Heavily used by trucks avoiding downtown Portland, creating dangerous merging conflicts at the I-5 interchanges
- • N Columbia Boulevard: A surface street that functions as a truck highway, connecting the industrial zones to the interstate system
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents don't just happen—they're caused by specific, preventable failures that we can prove in court. We investigate all contributing factors:
Driver Fatigue & Hours of Service Violations
Federal law limits truck drivers to 11 hours of driving in a 14-hour period, but companies often pressure drivers to violate these rules. We subpoena Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data to prove violations.
Aggressive Driving & "Schedule Pressure"
Portland's congested freeways create intense pressure to make delivery deadlines. We prove that trucking companies incentivize dangerous speeding, following too closely, and unsafe lane changes.
Equipment Failures & Poor Maintenance
Brake failures, tire blowouts, and inadequate lighting are often the result of trucking companies cutting corners on maintenance to maximize profits.
Overloading & Improper Cargo Securement
Portland's industrial economy means many trucks carry hazardous materials, oversized loads, or improperly secured cargo that can shift and cause loss of control.
Immediate Action
What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident in Portland
Critical steps to protect your health and legal rights
Call 911 Immediately
Report the accident and request police and medical assistance. Portland Police Bureau's Major Crash Team (MCT) responds to all serious truck accidents.
Get Emergency Medical Care
Accept ambulance transport to a hospital, even if you feel okay. For serious injuries, you'll likely go to OHSU Hospital (3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road) or Legacy Emanuel Medical Center (501 N Graham Street)—both Level I Trauma Centers.
Document Everything
If you're able, use your phone to photograph the truck, trailer, DOT numbers, license plates, the scene, your vehicle damage, and any nearby landmarks like the Vista Bridge or Pioneer Courthouse Square.
Get Driver & Company Information
Obtain the truck driver's commercial driver's license (CDL), the trucking company name, DOT number, insurance information, and the truck's license plate numbers.
Identify Witnesses
Get names and contact information from other drivers, pedestrians, or workers who saw the accident.
Do NOT Talk to Trucking Company Representatives
Trucking companies dispatch investigators and adjusters to accident scenes immediately. Do not give any statements, sign anything, or accept any offers. These representatives are trained to gather evidence against you.
Preserve Evidence
Do not repair your vehicle until it's been thoroughly photographed and inspected by your attorney's experts. Truck accident cases often benefit from accident reconstruction specialists.
File Required Reports
In Oregon, you must file an Oregon Traffic Accident and Insurance Report with the DMV within 72 hours if anyone is injured or property damage exceeds $2,500.
Call a Portland Truck Accident Lawyer Immediately
Time is critical. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and trucking companies begin building their defense immediately.
Legal Process
Navigating Portland's Legal System After a Truck Accident
Complex federal regulations and multiple jurisdictions
Truck accident cases in Portland involve multiple jurisdictions and complex federal regulations. Experience helps.
Court Jurisdiction
Multnomah County Circuit Court (1200 SW 1st Avenue): This is where we file your personal injury lawsuit against the trucking company. These cases are heard by experienced judges who understand complex commercial vehicle litigation.
Critical Legal Deadlines
- • Statute of Limitations: You have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in Oregon. However, truck accident cases benefit from extensive investigation, so don't wait.
- • Government Entity Claims: If the accident involved a government vehicle (like a TriMet bus or city truck), you must file a tort claim notice within 180 days—a much shorter deadline.
- • Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations: Trucking companies are required to preserve certain records for specific periods. We must act quickly to prevent destruction of crucial evidence.
Time-Sensitive Evidence Preservation
Trucking companies are only required to keep certain records for limited periods. ELD data may be overwritten in as little as 6 months. Driver qualification files might be destroyed after 3 years. We must act immediately to preserve this evidence through legal process before it disappears forever.
Proven Results
Fighting for Maximum Compensation
Recent Portland truck accident settlements
Complex Portland Truck Accident Cases We Handle
Comprehensive experience with federal regulations and Portland's trucking challenges
Hours of Service Violations
Federal law limits truck drivers to 11 hours of driving in a 14-hour period. We subpoena Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data to prove fatigue-related violations and company pressure to break the law.
Commercial Driver License Violations
We investigate whether drivers had proper CDL endorsements for their cargo, valid medical certificates, or histories of traffic violations that should have disqualified them from commercial driving.
Equipment Failure & Maintenance Neglect
Brake failures, tire blowouts, defective lighting, and inadequate trailer maintenance. We prove trucking companies cut corners on safety inspections to maximize profits.
Overweight & Improperly Secured Cargo
Portland's industrial economy means many trucks carry hazardous materials, oversized loads, or improperly secured cargo that shifts and causes loss of control on I-5 and I-84.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Violations
We investigate violations of federal trucking regulations including driver qualification standards, drug and alcohol testing failures, and inadequate safety management systems.
Multi-Vehicle Chain Reaction Crashes
Complex accidents involving multiple vehicles on Portland's congested freeways where trucks cause chain reactions due to following too closely or failing to adjust for traffic conditions.
Portland Truck Accident FAQs
Common questions from truck accident victims
How much is my Portland truck accident case worth?
Truck accident settlements are typically much higher than car accident cases due to the severity of injuries and higher insurance coverage. Factors include your medical costs (including ongoing care at places like OHSU's Rehabilitation Center), lost wages, pain and suffering, and the degree of the trucking company's negligence. We've secured settlements ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars.
What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?
Trucking companies always try to blame the other driver. We investigate thoroughly, often hiring accident reconstruction experts to prove fault. Oregon follows "modified comparative negligence" rules—you can still recover damages as long as you were less than 51% at fault.
The accident happened on I-5 near Rivergate. Does the location matter?
Absolutely. Rivergate is Portland's primary industrial zone with constant truck traffic. We understand the traffic patterns, the typical cargo being transported, and the specific hazards of that area. This local knowledge helps us build a stronger case.
What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?
Hazmat trucks are subject to additional federal regulations. If hazardous materials spilled or leaked, it can create additional liability and environmental damages. We work with specialized experts to investigate these complex cases.
Can I sue the trucking company or just the driver?
Usually both. Under federal law, trucking companies are liable for their drivers' actions. We also investigate whether the company was negligent in hiring, training, or supervising the driver, or whether they pressured the driver to violate safety rules.
How long will my case take to resolve?
Truck accident cases are more complex than typical auto accidents and often take 1-3 years to fully resolve. The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries, the complexity of the investigation, and whether the trucking company is willing to negotiate fairly. We won't rush your case—we'll take the time needed to maximize your recovery.
What if the trucking company's insurance calls me?
Do not speak with them. Trucking company insurers have teams of experienced adjusters whose job is to minimize their payout. They may try to get you to make statements that hurt your case or accept a lowball settlement. Refer all calls to your attorney.
Do I really need a lawyer, or can I handle this myself?
Truck accident cases are among the most complex in personal injury law. Trucking companies have teams of lawyers and investigators working against you from day one. Studies show that truck accident victims who hire experienced attorneys receive settlements that are, on average, 3-4 times higher than those who negotiate alone.
What if I can't afford a lawyer?
We handle all truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely no attorney fees unless we win your case. We also advance all case expenses, so there are no upfront costs to you.
Fighting for Your Maximum Recovery
Comprehensive Representation for Truck Accident Victims
Trucking companies carry high insurance coverage—often $1 million or more per accident
This means there's typically sufficient coverage to fully compensate you for all damages:
Economic Damages
- • All medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and future medical needs
- • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- • Property damage to your vehicle
- • Transportation costs and other out-of-pocket expenses
Non-Economic Damages
- • Pain and suffering
- • Emotional distress and mental anguish
- • Loss of enjoyment of life
- • Disability and disfigurement
- • Loss of consortium (for married couples)
Why Truck Accident Settlements Are Higher
Truck accidents typically result in much larger settlements than car accidents for several key reasons:
- • Severe Injuries: The massive size and weight difference means truck accidents often cause catastrophic injuries requiring lifelong care
- • High Insurance Limits: Federal law requires trucking companies to carry minimum $750,000 to $5 million in insurance coverage
- • Corporate Liability: We can often prove the trucking company's own negligence in hiring, training, or pressuring drivers
- • Federal Violations: Violations of federal trucking regulations can significantly increase liability
Punitive Damages: In cases involving willful misconduct or gross negligence, Oregon allows punitive damages to punish the trucking company and deter future dangerous behavior.
Recovery Resources
Portland Medical Resources for Truck Accident Victims
Getting the specialized care you need after a catastrophic truck accident
Truck accidents often cause catastrophic injuries that benefit from immediate access to specialized medical care. Losing your vehicle in the accident creates an additional crisis—how do you get to critical medical appointments and rehabilitation sessions? Portland has specific trauma care resources and transportation assistance programs designed to help truck accident victims.
For immediate trauma care, Portland's Level I Trauma Centers are equipped to handle the severe injuries common in truck accidents:
- • OHSU Hospital (3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road): Oregon's only Level I trauma center with specialized units for traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and complex orthopedic trauma
- • Legacy Emanuel Medical Center (501 N Graham Street): Level I trauma center with burn unit and specialized trauma surgery teams
- • Providence Portland Medical Center (4805 NE Glisan Street): Comprehensive trauma care with specialized neurosurgery and orthopedic services
For ongoing rehabilitation and specialized care:
- • OHSU Rehabilitation Center: Comprehensive rehabilitation for spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and complex orthopedic recovery
- • Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center: Advanced rehabilitation services and pain management programs
- • Physical Therapy Associates: Multiple Portland locations providing specialized trauma rehabilitation
Transportation Assistance Programs
If your vehicle was destroyed in the truck accident, these Portland-specific programs can help ensure you don't miss critical medical appointments:
- • Ride to Care (OHP Members): Free non-emergency medical transportation for Oregon Health Plan members
- • TriMet LIFT: Door-to-door paratransit service for qualifying disabled individuals, including those with temporary disabilities from truck accident injuries
- • Medical Facility Shuttles: Many hospitals and rehabilitation centers offer shuttle services from MAX stations and parking areas
Focus on your recovery while we handle talking with the insurance companies and collecting your medical records. During your free consultation you'll learn how we while we fight to recover maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost vehicle, and other damages. Our goal is to remove every barrier to your complete recovery.
Your Portland Advocates
Fighting Against Corporate Giants
More than just lawyers—we are your neighbors committed to making Portland roads safer
Johnson Law, P.C. is deeply invested in the Portland community and committed to making our roads safer. We understand that I-5, I-84, and our surface streets will always carry heavy truck traffic—but that doesn't mean trucking companies can ignore safety rules or endanger innocent families.
Trucking companies have virtually unlimited resources to fight your claim. They have teams of defense lawyers on retainer, accident response teams that arrive at crash scenes within hours, expert witnesses and accident reconstruction specialists, insurance adjusters trained to minimize payouts, and public relations teams to protect their reputation.
You need equally powerful representation.
When you hire Johnson Law, P.C., you level the playing field. We have the resources, experience, and determination to take on the biggest trucking companies and win.
Our Promise to You
- • We will fight tirelessly for maximum compensation
- • We will treat you with respect and keep you informed throughout the process
- • We will not settle for less than your case is worth
- • We will hold trucking companies accountable for their dangerous practices
- • We will be available when you need us most
When you hire us, you're not just getting a lawyer; you're getting a dedicated local partner who will fight tirelessly for maximum compensation. We handle all truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis—you pay absolutely no attorney fees unless we win your case.
Don't Wait—Trucking Companies Are Already Building Their Defense
Let Experienced Trial Lawyers Fight For You
Available 24/7 • No Fee Unless We Win
Over $50 Million Recovered for Oregon Injury Victims