Vehicle Accidents /

Commercial Vehicle Accidents

With major container ports in both Tacoma and Seattle and a number of nationwide firms headquartered in the area, the Puget Sound area sees a tremendous amount of truck traffic on its roads and highways. When accidents occur due to negligent or reckless driving or trucking company negligence, the Washington truck accident lawyers at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC devote their skill and experience to obtaining full and fair compensation for the injured victim, while holding the responsible party fully accountable for the damages that have been caused.

For many reasons, 18-wheelers pose a significant danger of serious injury or wrongful death to other drivers on the road. Due to their enormous size and weight relative to most other vehicles, even a low-speed impact can cause serious harm to the occupants of the smaller automobile. In addition, the limited maneuverability and visibility of big rigs requires that drivers be alert to their surroundings, allow for increased stopping distance, and clearly signal their intentions.

 

DRIVER NEGLIGENCE AND MISCONDUCT

Car drivers may not fully appreciate the risk factors associated with semis and may find themselves involved in a collision if driving aggressively or recklessly around a truck without considering the truck’s limitations regarding visibility and maneuverability. Both the automobile and truck driver are charged with the duty to operate their vehicles with reasonable care.

 

TRUCK DRIVER NEGLIGENCE AND MISCONDUCT

Unfortunately, the nature of the trucking industry encourages truckers to get their load to their destination as quickly as possible. This pressure leads to drivers operating their rigs when they are fatigued, and promotes speeding and reckless or aggressive driving. Truckers may also be tempted to take stimulants to help them stay on the road longer. Whether over-the-counter or illegal controlled substances, the use of stimulants has been shown to decrease alertness and awareness, hampering reaction time and the ability to drive safely. A truck driver who negligently or intentionally drives without due care may be liable for any accidents or personal injuries that occur as a result.

 

TRUCKING COMPANY NEGLIGENCE AND MISCONDUCT

Besides the driver, the trucking company may bear some responsibility as well. The proper loading and balancing of the load may initially be the responsibility of the company. Training the driver and other workers and providing proper inspections and maintenance on the vehicle may also be required. This duty may include supplying the cab with fire extinguishers and other necessary safety equipment, which may help in the event of an accident to reduce injury to the driver and others. If the truck, its parts, or equipment are defectively designed or manufactured, the manufacturer may potentially be held liable in a products liability claim as well.

 

IMPORTANCE AND IMPACT OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS

The law recognizes the dangers and hazards associated with trucking and sets forth extensive regulations designed to increase the safe operation of semis on the nation’s highways and roads. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, an arm of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has promulgated regulations covering everything from length, width, and weight limitations of trucks to inspection, repair, and maintenance.  The law also regulates the maximum hours of service for truck drivers.

The law also requires that records and logs be kept documenting that the driver and trucking company are in compliance with the rules. After an accident, it is important to obtain a copy of these records, as they may provide evidence of negligence on the part of the driver or trucking company. It is not unheard of for such records to be altered or completed after the fact, so these records may need to be carefully scrutinized.

 

SEEK EXPERIENCED LEGAL REPRESENTATION

Truck accident cases are often more complex and more vigorously defended than car accidents. It is important to trust your case to an attorney who is experienced in handling collisions involving commercial vehicles and dealing with trucking companies and their insurance carriers. The law firm of Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC has been handling civil litigation claims and commercial vehicle accidents in Washington State for over 50 years. Our experienced attorneys possess an in-depth knowledge of the laws and regulations covering 18-wheelers and understand the steps necessary to obtain a fair recovery on behalf of clients who have been injured by a dangerous semi truck. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a commercial vehicle accident, contact Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC for sound advice and effective representation.

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At Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC we have the skill and experience to take on a wide range of personal injury cases throughout Washington state. From motor vehicle accidents to workplace injuries – our reputation and success rates keep opposing counsel on edge.

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Winning is when clients get the closure and compensation they deserve. We haven’t settled for less in the last sixty plus years. And we won’t for the next sixty.

$7.0 M
Client was exposed to ammonia gas by a trucking company that wrongfully released the gas. Client suffered injuries to both eyes, reactive airway disease, significant PTSD and severe depression preventing client from returning to his previous employment.
$1.9 M
Client was the victim of medical malpractice when the emergency room failed to diagnose a bowel obstruction, resulting in severe intestine injury and a colostomy.
$1.3 M
Client was bitten by a dog and suffered C-Diff infection and multiple hospitalizations.
$1.2 M
Client was the victim of a defective product when the coupler unit between his tractor and trailer failed, causing his arm to be crushed.
$1.2 M
Client was involved in a traumatic motorcycle accident. Client underwent multiple surgeries for comminuted fractures of his tibia and fibula resulting in limitations to his ability to work.
$1.05 M
Client was involved in a high speed collision on Interstate 5 when a driver of a Box Truck fell asleep and crossed over several lanes pushing her vehicle over an embankment. Client sustained traumatic brain bleed, fractured shoulder, hip and knees requiring over three months of intensive care and hospital admission
$920,000
Client was involved in a truck accident that caused his wrongful death. He was crushed when the truck hit him from behind as he was unloading items from his vehicle.
$875,000
Client was a pedestrian and was struck by a car while crossing in a crosswalk. Client was transported to the hospital but unfortunately died as a result of the injuries.
FAQs

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We have answers to some of the most common Washington personal injury questions. These are resources for injury victims.

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Do I need a lawyer to file a personal injury lawsuit?

It is not necessary to retain a lawyer to file your personal injury lawsuit. You should base your decision to involve an attorney on a reasonable assessment of the pros and cons. Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC is a highly reputable personal injury law firm that has served Washington since 1959. We deliver value to our clients that far outweighs the fees we collect. But before you retain any attorney, you have to be satisfied that the benefits exceed the costs. We offer these points for your consideration.

 

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What is the statute of limitations in Washington for personal injury?

A statute of limitations is state law; throughout the country, different states set different time limits for identical causes of action. Within each state, different causes of action have different time limits. In Washington, for personal injury lawsuits, the statute of limitations is three years.

 

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How much does a personal injury lawyer cost?

The great advantage of filing a personal injury lawsuit is that most attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. That means that rather than charging upfront legal fees or an hourly rate, the attorney works without compensation until the case resolves through a jury verdict or settlement. At that time, the attorney takes a percentage of the award. The contingency fee arrangement helps plaintiffs who could not otherwise afford the costs of civil litigation to pursue just compensation without worrying about expenses. It also means that your ability to retain an excellent lawyer does not depend on your ability to pay, but rather on the attorney’s assessment of the strength of your case, or the importance of delivering justice to someone in your particular circumstances.

 

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How do I file a personal injury lawsuit in Washington state?

At Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC, we want our clients to have an accurate picture of what a personal injury lawsuit entails. The process is rarely quick and easy; defense counsel and insurance companies often employ delay tactics to wear a plaintiff down. We offer this page as a primer for anyone who has a cause of action and is considering a personal injury lawsuit.

 

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The change you want to see happens when your story goes beyond the courtroom and makes an impact after the case is closed.

  • Our experience with Dan Kyler and Vern Harkins was excellent from the beginning and we were very satisfied with the end results.
  • Dan Kyler and Mike Fisher were professional and dedicated throughout the entire process. I would recommend this law firm to anyone.
  • Vern Harkins perseverance and hard work made it possible to get the maximum settlement from the insurance company. I know he had my interest in mind as demonstrated by his actions.
  • Dan Hannula’s hard work helped to settle my auto accident case.
  • Michael was outstanding. He was always professional, prepared, available for questions, and on top of my case. I highly recommend him and will always consider him to be my first choice for legal matters I need resolved.
  • Mr. Fisher has helped me in the past and is very trustworthy and sincere. I would recommend Michael and of course anyone else at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler.
  • My father was sick and dying, I needed assistance and I need it fast. With a single call to Mr. Fisher’s office, I was warmly welcomed, swiftly assisted and free of the concerns... I am forever grateful to Mr. Fisher for his exquisite services in my time of need.
  • The office staff were courteous, pleasant and kept me informed as to what was going on throughout the whole ordeal.
  • I am extremely satisfied with the service I experienced with this firm and I would recommend them to anyone that needs legal representation. Michael Fisher and his staff are great people.
  • John Wilson demonstrated his professionalism by keeping us current on our case, explaining our options, giving us realistic expectations and demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity beyond reproach. We have the highest confidence that we were well represented.
  • I have been a client of Dan Kyler’s since 1996. Having had numerous car accidents, I rely upon the Tacoma auto accident attorneys at RHHK to help me through them. The most obscure questions have been answered and help is given on all levels.
  • Mr. Fisher has helped me in the past and is very trustworthy and sincere. I would recommend Michael and of course anyone else at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler.
  • Our experience with Dan Kyler and Vern Harkins was excellent from the beginning and we were very satisfied with the end results.
  • The office staff were courteous, pleasant and kept me informed as to what was going on throughout the whole ordeal.
  • Having a motorcycle accident was bad enough, let alone dealing with insurance companies. John Wilson and his staff made everything easy to understand and hassle free.
  • John Wilson demonstrated his professionalism by keeping us current on our case, explaining our options, giving us realistic expectations and demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity beyond reproach. We have the highest confidence that we were well represented.
  • Michael was outstanding. He was always professional, prepared, available for questions, and on top of my case. I highly recommend him and will always consider him to be my first choice for legal matters I need resolved.
  • Mr. Fisher is an outstanding lawyer. He’s knowledgeable, responsive, and kept me informed at all times. I would definitely recommend him to anyone in need of a good attorney.
  • My father was sick and dying, I needed assistance and I need it fast. With a single call to Mr. Fisher’s office, I was warmly welcomed, swiftly assisted and free of the concerns... I am forever grateful to Mr. Fisher for his exquisite services in my time of need.
  • Mike Fisher is an example of a quality attorney who sets high standards in servicing his clients in the highest regard as an attorney and he is part of a great firm.
  • Vern Harkins perseverance and hard work made it possible to get the maximum settlement from the insurance company. I know he had my interest in mind as demonstrated by his actions.
  • I am extremely satisfied with the service I experienced with this firm and I would recommend them to anyone that needs legal representation. Michael Fisher and his staff are great people.
  • Having a motorcycle accident was bad enough, let alone dealing with insurance companies. John Wilson and his staff made everything easy to understand and hassle free.
  • Dan Hannula’s hard work helped to settle my auto accident case.
  • John Wilson demonstrated his professionalism by keeping us current on our case, explaining our options, giving us realistic expectations and demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity beyond reproach. We have the highest confidence that we were well represented.
  • I have been a client of Dan Kyler’s since 1996. Having had numerous car accidents, I rely upon the Tacoma auto accident attorneys at RHHK to help me through them. The most obscure questions have been answered and help is given on all levels.
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