If you were hurt in a crash with a large truck in Washington state, you may be facing serious injuries, rising medical bills, and time away from work. We know how devastating truck accidents can be, and we’re here to help. At Munley Law, our Washington State truck accident lawyers have spent decades holding trucking companies accountable for the harm they cause.
We are one of the nation’s leading personal injury law firms, known for our work in trucking cases. These accident cases demand strong legal experience and resources, and that’s what we bring. We offer compassionate support while building strong claims that can stand up to insurance companies, trucking carriers, and their lawyers.
Whether your accident occurred on I-5 near Seattle, on U.S. 2 heading into Spokane, or on a rural highway outside Yakima, we’re ready to help you pursue justice.
There is no fee unless we win your case.
What to Know About Truck Accidents in Washington
Washington’s combination of major interstates, port traffic, and rural highways means commercial trucks play a big role in transporting goods across the state. Washington’s economy depends heavily on the trucking industry. With active ports in Seattle and Tacoma, a large agricultural sector in Central Washington, and cross-border shipping with Canada, trucks are everywhere—on I-90, US-12, and rural routes alike.
This level of traffic increases the likelihood of accidents, particularly in areas with winding roads, poor lighting, or heavy rain. Drivers from out-of-state are often unfamiliar with these routes, creating added risks. In particular, areas like Snoqualmie Pass and I-5 through the Puget Sound corridor see frequent collisions due to steep grades and congestion.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets nationwide safety rules, but enforcement often falls to state agencies. The Washington Department of Licensing and State Patrol both monitor commercial vehicle inspections and licensing, but violations still happen. Drivers may skip required rest breaks or companies may cut corners to stay on schedule.
At Munley Law, we regularly uncover violations of:
- Hours-of-service rules: Drivers are only allowed to operate their vehicles for a set number of hours before taking a break.
- Maintenance standards: Commercial carriers must inspect and maintain their vehicles regularly.
- Weight limits: Overloaded trucks increase braking distances and can damage roads.
- Hazmat regulations: Transporting hazardous materials requires special training and routes.
Failure to follow these rules can lead to catastrophic crashes, and our accident lawyers know how to build a case around these violations.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Washington
Truck accidents can happen for many reasons, but most are caused by preventable mistakes or safety violations. Understanding the causes can help reveal who is at fault and how the crash could have been avoided. Some of the most common causes of truck crashes include:
- Driver fatigue: Despite hours-of-service rules, many truckers are pushed to drive long hours without rest.
- Distracted driving: Mobile phones, GPS systems, and dispatch devices often cause driver inattention.
- Speeding: Commercial vehicles need much longer stopping distances than passenger cars.
- Improper maintenance: Bald tires, faulty brakes, and steering issues are all serious risks.
- Overloaded or shifting cargo: Poorly secured loads can throw off a truck’s balance or fall into traffic.
- Severe weather: Heavy rain, snow, or fog can reduce visibility and create slick roads.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Truck Accident in WA?
Unlike most car crashes, liability in a truck accident may involve multiple parties. Understanding who is responsible—and proving it—is key to building a successful claim. Liable parties may include:
- Truck driver: Negligent driving behavior, such as speeding, impairment, or fatigue, can make the driver liable.
- Trucking company: Companies may be responsible for poor training, hiring unqualified drivers, or pushing unsafe schedules. When trucking companies don’t train drivers to handle Washington’s variable weather conditions, disaster can result.
- Vehicle owner: If the truck is leased or owned by someone other than the driver or company, that person or entity may be at fault.
- Cargo company: Improper loading or failure to secure cargo may place liability on a third-party logistics firm.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: If defective equipment or parts contributed to the crash, the company that designed or sold the part can be named.
We review all records, black box data, logbooks, personnel files, and maintenance reports to determine who should be held accountable. In many cases, there are multiple liable parties. Washington’s “pure comparative fault” system allows us to pursue damages from every responsible party, even if one played only a minor role.
What Makes Munley Law Different?
We’re not just any law firm. For over 60 years, Munley Law has led the way in truck accident litigation across the country. Our attorneys have won national recognition for their results, ethics, and expertise.
Our truck accident attorneys have secured some of the largest truck accident verdicts and settlements in the country, and we continue to take on cases others won’t. Our deep knowledge of trucking regulations and strong courtroom experience give our clients a serious advantage. When you work with Munley Law, you’re choosing a team trusted by clients and respected by peers.
We work with accident reconstruction experts, trucking industry consultants, and former commercial drivers to build airtight cases. These partnerships allow us to present a clear and compelling story of how the crash occurred—and why it should have been prevented.
Proven Track Record of Results
The stakes are high after a trucking accident, especially when someone’s life has been permanently altered. You want a legal team that has delivered results in the most serious cases. Some of our recent victories include:
· $26 million for a truck accident victim with a traumatic brain injury
· $8 million for a client injured in a commercial vehicle collision
· $6.9 million for a family who lost a loved one in a fatal truck crash
· $3.97 million for a victim of a garbage truck collision
· $2.25 million after a tractor-trailer caused serious injuries
These outcomes speak for themselves. But beyond the numbers, they represent real people whose lives were changed by our work. Our team approaches every case with the same determination, regardless of whether your damages are $100,000 or $10 million.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
A truck accident can impact every part of your life. A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. When that much weight collides with a passenger vehicle, the results can be catastrophic.
These massive vehicles pose serious risks when drivers or trucking companies act carelessly. That’s why personal injury cases allow victims to seek full and fair compensation. Getting the right legal help can make the difference between a low settlement and the maximum compensation you deserve.
Depending on your truck accident case, your compensation may cover:
· Medical costs: Emergency care, surgeries, rehab, medications, and future treatment.
· Lost wages: Time missed from work, reduced hours, or loss of earning ability.
· Pain and suffering: Physical pain, mental anguish, trauma, and emotional distress.
· Loss of enjoyment: Activities, hobbies, and quality of life lost due to injury.
· Permanent disability: Long-term impairment or disfigurement.
· Wrongful death damages: Loss of companionship, funeral costs, and lost financial support.
Insurance companies may try to settle fast and for far less than what your claim is truly worth. That’s why we advise injured people to speak with a lawyer before accepting any offer. We calculate every cost—past, current, and future—so your financial future stays protected.
Washington State Laws That May Affect Your Case
Washington has specific rules and deadlines for truck accident cases. These laws can affect your ability to recover compensation if you don’t act in time. Key laws to take note of:
- Statute of limitations: In Washington, you typically have three years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit.
- Comparative fault: Washington follows a “pure comparative fault” rule. This means your compensation may be reduced if you were partly at fault. But you can still recover damages even if you were 99% responsible.
- Truck safety laws: In addition to federal trucking regulations, Washington enforces state-level rules on vehicle weight, hazardous materials, and driver licensing.
Failing to file a truck accident claim on time, or missing key evidence tied to local laws, can weaken your case or eliminate your right to recover fair compensation. That’s why having early legal help matters.
What If a Loved One Died in a Truck Crash?
Losing someone in a truck accident is one of the hardest experiences a family can face. It changes a family forever. In addition to the emotional toll, the financial impact can be crushing.
Children may lose a parent’s guidance and support. A spouse may face sudden expenses and lost income. Grief alone is difficult—having to worry about bills and paperwork at the same time is overwhelming.
At Munley Law, we have helped grieving families recover the compensation they need to begin rebuilding their lives. We help surviving family members bring wrongful death claims to hold negligent parties accountable.
Wrongful death cases may include compensation for the following:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of future income and benefits
- Loss of companionship and support
- Medical expenses before death
- Mental anguish
These cases often require detailed financial and emotional assessments. We work closely with families to understand the full scope of their loss—both measurable and intangible. That includes lost earning potential, loss of companionship, guidance, and support.
These truck accident cases often involve intense grief and financial strain. We handle the legal side with sensitivity while making sure your voice is heard. We also offer support through every step of the legal process, explaining each stage clearly and answering every question along the way.
Our goal is to handle the legal work so you can focus on healing. We represent families across Washington State with the care they deserve. Call us today for a free consultation.
Why Acting Quickly Matters in a Truck Accident Case
Truck accident evidence doesn’t last forever. The trucking company may begin building its defense immediately after a crash. That’s why it’s important to have someone working on your side just as quickly.
Here’s why timing matters:
- Black box data: Most commercial trucks have electronic control modules that record speed, braking, and more—but this data can be overwritten in days or weeks.
- Logbooks: Driver logs can show signs of hours-of-service violations, but records may be altered or lost.
- Surveillance footage: Traffic and security camera footage is often deleted unless preserved quickly.
- Witness memories: The sooner we talk to witnesses, the better the quality of their statements.
We send letters of preservation to trucking companies immediately to prevent the destruction of critical data. This fast response can mean the difference between a strong case and one with missing links.
Let the Truck Accident Attorneys at Munley Law Help You
If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident in Washington State, don’t try to handle the case alone. Insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. You deserve a team that’s working just as hard for yours.
We represent truck accident victims throughout Washington State—from Seattle to Spokane, Everett to Olympia, Vancouver to Walla Walla. Whether your accident occurred in a busy city or a remote area, our team is prepared to help. Our proven track record speaks for itself.
At Munley Law, our truck accident attorneys treat every client with respect, compassion, and personal attention. We will keep you informed every step of the way, discuss your legal options, and advocate on your behalf for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Our lawyers are ready to investigate your case, preserve evidence, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf. If a fair offer isn’t made, we’ll be ready to go to court. You won’t pay anything unless we recover money for you.
Truck accident victims across Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and smaller communities deserve justice. We’re here to help you get it. Call Munley Law today to speak with a trusted Washington State truck accident lawyer and schedule your free consultation.
