Portland and Beaverton Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer

A collision with a semi-truck can instantly change your life. These massive vehicles—also called tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers—can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, which is 20 to 30 times heavier than an average passenger vehicle. When semi-trucks collide with smaller vehicles, the results are often devastating. In fact, in fatal two-vehicle crashes involving a passenger car and a large truck, 96% of those killed are occupants of the passenger vehicle, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Victims may suffer catastrophic injuries, permanent disability, or even death. In addition to the physical and emotional toll, the legal aftermath of a semi-truck accident is often complex, involving federal regulations, commercial insurance carriers, and multiple responsible parties.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash involving a semi-truck in Portland, Beaverton, or elsewhere in Oregon, you need an experienced attorney who understands the unique legal and investigative challenges these cases present.

Legal Help for Victims of 18-Wheeler and Tractor-Trailer Accidents in Portland, Beaverton, and Across Oregon

Why Semi-Truck Accidents in Portland and Beaverton Are So Dangerous

Semi-trucks are among the largest and most dangerous vehicles on the road. Their size, speed, and weight make them especially lethal in a crash. Unlike delivery vans or box trucks operating primarily in urban settings, semi-trucks often travel long distances on highways, making high-speed collisions more likely.

Some of the factors that make these crashes particularly dangerous include:

• Size and Weight Disparity: A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 40 tons (80,000 pounds)—about the weight of 20 average vehicles.

• High-Speed Impact: Many semi-truck crashes occur on interstates such as I-5 and I-84 that run through or near Portland and Beaverton, where traffic moves at 60 mph or more.

• Limited Maneuverability: These vehicles require up to 40% more stopping distance than passenger cars and have large blind spots ("no-zones") that can hide entire vehicles.

• Cargo Hazards: Improperly loaded or shifting cargo can lead to rollovers, jackknife crashes, and falling debris that endanger everyone on the road.

The Dangers of Underride Accidents

One of the most catastrophic types of semi-truck collisions is an underride accident, which occurs when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a trailer. These crashes often result in the entire upper portion of the passenger vehicle being crushed or even sheared off, potentially killing or severely injuring occupants.

According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, hundreds of people are killed each year in underride crashes, and those numbers are probably underreported. Rear underride guards are required by law, but they are not always strong enough—or present at all—to prevent fatal outcomes. Side underride guards, while proven to save lives in testing, are not yet mandated, and their absence contributes to the high fatality rate.

Underride accidents can happen in many ways, including:

• A truck suddenly crossing traffic or making a wide turn

• Poor visibility or insufficient rear lighting on the trailer

• A sudden stop on a highway, giving the following vehicle no time to react

Victims of underride crashes often suffer catastrophic injuries or fatal trauma. Investigating whether underride protection devices were in place and met federal standards can be critical to determining liability.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents in Oregon

Accidents involving semi-trucks often result from negligence, regulatory violations, or unsafe corporate practices. Common causes include:

• Driver Fatigue and Hours-of-Service Violations: Federal regulations limit the number of hours truckers can drive, but these rules are sometimes ignored to meet tight deadlines.

• Distracted Driving: Texting, adjusting GPS systems, or other distractions can impair a truck driver’s ability to respond to road conditions.

• Substance Use: Impairment by drugs or alcohol remains a serious concern in the trucking industry.

• Poor Maintenance: Worn brakes, tire blowouts, or other mechanical failures can lead to loss of control.

• Negligent Hiring or Supervision: Some motor carriers fail to properly screen drivers or provide adequate training.

• Improper Loading: Overloaded or unbalanced trailers can increase the risk of jackknifing or tipping.

Legal Challenges in Portland and Beaverton Semi-Truck Crash Cases

Unlike a typical car accident, a semi-truck crash may involve:

• Multiple Liable Parties: These may include the driver, the trucking company, the vehicle owner, the maintenance contractor, or the cargo shipper.

• Commercial Insurance Policies: Semi-truck operators are typically covered by large policies that are aggressively defended by insurers.

• Federal and State Regulations: Motor carriers must comply with regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), including rules on driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, and hours of service.

• Out-of-State Defendants: Many motor carriers are based in other states, complicating jurisdiction and discovery.

Early investigation is critical. Trucking companies may repair or discard key evidence. Our office acts quickly to preserve evidence, obtain records, and protect your rights.

What Should I Do If I've Been Injured In A Semi-Truck Accident In Portland or Beaverton?

If you’re involved in a collision with a semi-truck, the steps you take afterward can be critical to protecting your health and any potential legal claim you may have. The following list offers general suggestions, but remember, every situation is different, and always prioritize your safety. Additionally, every driver involved in a motor vehicle collision involving bodily injury must comply with the duties set forth in ORS 811.705 and ORS 811.745.

1. Stop Immediately – Immediately stop at the scene of the collision or as close to it as possible without obstructing traffic more than necessary. ORS 811.705.

2. Call 911 – If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck accident, call emergency services (911) immediately. Accidents occurring on a highway or upon premises open to the public resulting in injury or death must be reported to the police. ORS 811.745.

3. Don't Move – You should not move yourself or anyone else who may be injured in a semi-truck accident unless you are in immediate danger or it is necessary to prevent further harm (e.g., a fire or imminent danger of another collision). Let trained medical professionals assess the situation and handle the transportation of injured individuals. They have the expertise and equipment to move people safely and provide necessary medical care.

   If you are taken to the hospital in an ambulance, the police should conduct an investigation and document the scene. After the police arrive at the scene, you should provide them with all the facts you can remember. The officer will make a police report, which can later be used as evidence if you pursue a personal injury claim.

4. Safety At The Scene – If it is safe to do so, move vehicles off the road to a safe place without blocking or endangering other traffic. Turn off your engine, turn on hazard lights, stay off the road, and ensure you are visible to other drivers. Have someone check for possible fuel leaks, and do not smoke at the scene.

5. Render Aid – Oregon law requires drivers to render reasonable assistance to any person injured in the collision. ORS 811.705. Depending on the circumstances, this could include actions like calling for an ambulance. Remember, never move injured people carelessly. In many cases, they should not be moved at all except by emergency personnel or someone trained in first aid. If someone is killed or unconscious, the driver must remain at the scene until a police officer arrives. Source: Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services, Collision Reporting and Responsibilities.

6. Document The Scene – If you are not taken by an ambulance to the hospital and are physically able, take photos and videos of the accident scene, including things like the damaged vehicles, any company logos on semi-trucks, license plates, any skid marks, and the surrounding area.

7. Document Any Visible Injuries – Take photos and videos of any visible injuries such as cuts, bruises, etc.

8. Exchange Information – Exchange names, addresses, insurance information, and other required details with the involved parties. ORS 811.705.

9. Obtain Witness Information – If you can, get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.

10. Seek Medical Treatment – If you're not taken by an ambulance to the hospital, you should still seek medical attention right away. The severity of some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be apparent right away, especially with the adrenaline and stress an accident can cause. Prompt medical attention is critical not only to protect your health but also to document your injuries for any future legal claim.

11. Contact An Experienced Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer – If you've been injured in a semi-truck accident, contacting an experienced lawyer as soon as possible is vital. Starting an investigation quickly in semi-truck accident cases is crucial, as evidence can disappear quickly, and witness memories can fade. An experienced semi-truck accident lawyer can also reach out to the insurance companies involved and help you promptly obtain Personal Injury Protection insurance benefits, such as payment of medical bills and lost wages.

12. Submit An Accident Report To DMV – You are required to submit an Oregon Traffic Collision and Insurance Report to DMV within 72 hours of a motor vehicle collision. If you've already retained an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer, they can help you complete this process. Source: Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services, Collision Reporting and Responsibilities.

13. Notify Your Insurer – Promptly notify your insurance company about the accident, as per the terms of your policy. If you've already retained an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer, they can do this for you.

    Key Evidence in a Semi-Truck Accident Case

    To build a strong case, we work to secure vital records and data, including:

    • Electronic Control Module (ECM) data (also known as the "black box")

    • Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records documenting hours driven

    • Driver Qualification Files (DQFs)

    • Pre- and post-trip inspection reports

    • Drug and alcohol test results

    • Maintenance and repair logs

    • Bills of lading and weight records

    • Police reports

    • Dashcam footage

    We often send a spoliation letter immediately to prevent the destruction of this evidence.

    Injuries Often Seen in Oregon Semi-Truck Crashes

    Because of the force involved, injuries in semi-truck accidents tend to be severe. Semi-truck accident victims often face:

    • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

    • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis

    • Amputations

    • Complex fractures and orthopedic trauma

    • Internal organ damage

    • Fatal injuries

    We understand the long-term impact of these injuries on our clients and their families, and we fight to obtain the full compensation they deserve.

    Why Choose Our Office?

    When you choose the Law Office of Benjamin B. Grandy, you're choosing an office committed to you and your case. Here's what sets us apart:

    • Thorough Investigations: Our office will work tirelessly to gather evidence, analyze crash details, and thoroughly prepare your case.

    • Experience: We have over 30 years of legal experience and have handled numerous cases involving semi-trucks and commercial carriers.

    • Proven Results: We have recovered millions of dollars for clients in complex vehicle accident cases.

    • Personalized Attention: Every case we take is personally handled by our lead attorney, from intake through resolution. We understand that every client's situation is unique and provide tailored legal strategies to meet your needs.

    • Trial-Ready Representation: We prepare every case as if it will go to trial.

    • No Fee Unless We Win: When we take a case, we make our legal services available on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no legal fee unless we win your case and obtain compensation on your behalf. With a contingency fee, you can seek justice without fearing financial ruin.

    Contact a Portland and Beaverton Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Today

    A serious accident involving a semi-truck can leave you facing medical bills, lost income, and uncertainty about the future. You don't have to face it alone. At the Law Office of Benjamin B. Grandy, we are here to help you hold negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable.

    We serve clients in Portland, Beaverton, and throughout Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, and surrounding counties in Oregon. Call us today at 503-626-6221 for a free consultation.

    Last Updated: 04-12-2025