Truck accidents in Portland are unfortunately common and it is other motorists involved who generally suffer the most serious harm. Our Portland, Oregon personal injury attorneys represent victims and their families in these cases, helping them get the compensation they are entitled to in a claim. The following are four common causes of these crashes and the reasons behind why they often happen.
Common Types of Truck Accidents in Portland And How They Happen
When a truck accident in Portland happens, serious and potentially life-threatening injuries often result. As experienced Portland truck accident attorneys, we investigate these cases and gather the evidence needed to determine who is at fault. Generally, either the truck driver or the trucking company they work for is responsible. Common ways they happen and underlying causes include:
- Passing Truck Accidents
Tanker trucks, semis, and other big rigs can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Their massive height and length mean they have larger blind spots, which typically extend out multiple lanes. These make passing them more dangerous and increase truck accident risks.
Always allow plenty of space when passing a trucker. Avoid driving directly alongside them and look several car lengths ahead to ensure you have adequate room to pass them. Truckers are unable to stop as quickly as other motorists, so avoid cutting them off or causing them to slam on their brakes, which can trigger jackknife accidents.
- Intersection Truck Accidents
Intersection truck accidents are one of the most common types of crashes and are also among the most deadly. They can happen due to distracted driving or running red lights and stop signs. It is important to use caution when approaching side streets as well, as a recent fatal truck accident in Portland shows how important this is.
According to a July 29, 2021 KOIN News report, a local man was killed when he slammed into a truck making a turn from Corvallis Road onto Parker Road. Be aware that truckers typically need additional time and space when navigating and be prepared to slow down or even stop in these situations.
- Rollover Truck Accidents
Another common type of truck accident, rollover crashes, can occur due to going too fast around curves and shifting, uneven, or unsecured loads. When a truck does rollover, it often impacts drivers directly behind them as well as those in surrounding lanes.
- Head-On Truck Accidents
One of the most deadly types of truck accidents, head-on crashes, can happen due to driving distracted or under the influence, either on the part of the truck driver or other motorists involved. KPTV News reported on a recent fatal head-on truck accident that claimed the life of a local man in late July 2021.
Contact Our Team for Help
At the Johnston Law Firm P.C., we provide professional legal representation to victims of truck accidents and their families need to get the compensation they are entitled to. Call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland, OR truck attorney online and request a consultation today.