When you’re just trying to get to work or get your kids to school in Spokane Valley, you know how packed I-90 can be during your morning commute. Worse yet, there’s a wide variety of different vehicles that you have to share the road with, and none are more dangerous than a semi-truck.
One person was injured in such an accident on Wednesday morning, January 3, 2024. This is according to a story from KHQ, which occurred near South Freya Street on Interstate 90 at around 7:45 a.m. Washington State Patrol (WSP) responded to the scene, where they found a two-vehicle collision between a semi-truck and passenger vehicle. According to WSP crews, the driver of the passenger vehicle was trapped inside, but was safely removed. The driver was then transported to a local hospital with injuries.
The collision closed that stretch of I-90, causing significant delays from Thor Street to Argonne Street.
Is a Truck Driver Liable For Your Injuries in an Accident?
Each truck accident is unique, even the ones like in the story above. In terms of liability, it hinges on the specific causes and circumstances surrounding the incident. Despite their typically greater severity, truck accidents are treated similarly to other vehicle accidents in Spokane. Liability is established based on negligence, determining:
- Who acted negligently and caused the accident and resulting injuries.
Potential parties liable in a truck accident include:
- The truck driver
- The truck driver’s employer
- The truck manufacturer
- The company responsible for truck maintenance
- The company handling the truck’s cargo loading
- The owner of the truck
- The manufacturer of specific truck parts that failed
Whether or not the truck driver is liable depends on the circumstances around the accident. If they were distracted or speeding, they could be held liable, along with their employer. Along the same lines, if the truck’s parts failed or it wasn’t loaded properly, the mechanic or cargo company could share some of the blame.
Once liability is established, seeking support and benefits through an injury claim becomes crucial. This can be done through either:
- An insurance claim
- A personal injury lawsuit
The aim of the claim process is to secure financial support, known as “damages.” Depending on your accident’s specifics, these damages may cover:
- Your medical expenses and treatment costs
- Any lost wages or income from not being able to work
- Pain and suffering associated with the accident, as well as emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of your life or personal relationships
- Funeral or burial expenses if the accident is fatal
Dealing with a truck accident claim, along with health complications and emotional distress, can be overwhelming for you to handle alone. Our team takes pride in our approach to ease this burden on you and your family. We are committed to making sure you receive the deserved treatment after a truck accident.
Contact CCD Law After a Spokane Truck Accident
For guidance after a truck accident in Spokane, turn to our team of truck accident lawyers at CCD Law. Facing such a situation can be overwhelming and isolating, especially considering the potential for serious injuries and various recovery outcomes. You may also be dealing with substantial medical bills impacting your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to seek our help–contact us today for a free consultation.