Who is at Fault for a Truck Wreck?
Truck accident cases are rarely limited to one responsible party. Your Eugene truck accident attorney identifies every potential defendant and hold them accountable through the legal system. Some of the most common examples of at-fault parties include the following.
Truck Drivers
The driver may be at fault for negligent behavior such as speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, or impaired driving. Federal and state regulations limit driving hours and require proper licensing, and violations can support a claim.
Trucking Companies
The company that owns or operates the truck may also be liable due to careless hiring or training practices. A company may also be responsible for failing to maintain the vehicle properly or for violating safety regulations. In some cases, the truck company is liable simply by employing the driver who caused the crash.
Manufacturer
If a mechanical failure contributed to the crash, the manufacturer of the truck or one of its components may be responsible. Defective brakes, tires, or steering systems can all lead to loss of control and serious accidents.
Time Limits for a Truck Accident Lawsuit
In Oregon, you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you wait until this deadline expires to act, the court could end your case and bar you from receiving the compensation you deserve.
There are limited exceptions that might give you more time to file, but they are not widely available. For example, juveniles usually have more time to file a lawsuit than adults. Missing these deadlines can prevent you from pursuing any recovery, regardless of how strong your case may be.
It is also important to act early to preserve evidence in your case. Over time, witnesses forget what happened, and other evidence is lost. An experienced Eugene truck accident attorney can help gather and preserve critical evidence before it disappears. The sooner you get started, the stronger your case may be.
