Welcome to Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler

Tacoma Truck Accident Lawyers

We Provide Skilled Legal Guidance to Victims of Personal Injury

Highways and roads in the United States are filled with large trucks carrying heavy cargo. These semi trucks must necessarily share the roadways with people driving their passenger cars. When a large truck such as a semi truck, logging truck, tractor trailer or cement mixer causes an accident, the likelihood of serious injury or death is greatly increased. The lawyers at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, L.L.P. have extensive experience representing people who have died or suffered serious injuries in accidents involving large trucks that have left them with life long consequences and care needs.

Trucking Laws

Because of the increased danger that comes with the size (and potentially hazardous cargo) of large trucks, there are additional laws and regulations that govern their operation. For example, the requirements for obtaining a license to drive a semi are much more stringent that those for obtaining a regular driver’s license. Additionally, federal laws dictate the maximum number of hours an operator may be on the road without a break (known as Hours-of-Service Regulations) and require that drivers/trucking companies keep a log detailing that data. Federal laws also dictate the level and record keeping of maintenance performed on large trucks.

It is important to note that there are some exceptions to the trucking laws established by the federal government. For trucks and drivers that operate only intrastate (within a particular state), the state is allowed to modify some of the requirements. The state of Washington, for example, allows individuals aged 18 and over (rather than 21 and over) to obtain a license to drive a large vehicle.

Accidents and Liability

Common factors in accidents caused by large trucks include driver fatigue, reckless driving or excessive speed, and equipment failure. The first two are often symptoms of an unrealistic delivery time set by the trucking company or receiving party. The latter may result from a failure to adhere to safety standards in initial construction, a lack of appropriate maintenance, or improperly loaded cargo. Accidents involving these vehicles may also be the result of driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In any of these situations, the victim of an accident caused by a large truck is entitled to compensation. In some of these situations, there may also be a basis for a criminal case against the driver or the trucking company/truck manufacturer.

In addition, in some cases the truck driver may have acted appropriately, but the tractor, trailer, brakes or other component parts may have been defectively designed, manufactured or installed. In those circumstances, the product manufacturer or designer may be liable. See our Products Liability page for more information.

Prompt investigation of the accident by experienced attorneys and their experts is important to preserving the evidence necessary to prove fault for the accident. Establishing the contributing factors to the accident frequently involves investigating the scene of the accident, inspecting the truck, and interviewing witnesses to the accident. Many times expert witnesses must be hired to perform these tasks. An attorney experienced in handling large truck accident cases can do this for you. Because many of the relevant records (e.g., driving logs) may only be kept for a few months, you should consider seeking qualified legal counsel as soon as reasonably possible after an accident. The attorneys at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, L.L.P. have the experience, expertise and access to highly qualified expert witnesses to skillfully handle large truck accident cases in Tacoma, Pierce County, and throughout the State of Washington.

Contact an Experienced Washington Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or someone you know has suffered from an accident involving a semi truck or other large truck, contact Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, L.L.P. at 253.777.4799. We promptly respond to internet inquiries. Our initial consultation is free of charge, and if you decide to retain us, we only get paid for our services if you receive monetary compensation.