Washington DC Truck Accident Lawyer

At Cohen & Cohen, we’ve helped many clients recover after life-altering truck accidents. We know how overwhelming it can be when a large commercial vehicle causes serious damage in just a few seconds. You may be facing medical expenses, time away from work, and long-term health concerns. Our team understands the pressure you’re under and how quickly the aftermath can become more than one person—or family—can manage alone.

Truck Accident Lawyer Washington DC

Compared to regular vehicle collisions, truck accidents often lead to more serious outcomes. Due to their size, weight, and blind spots, commercial trucks can cause substantial damage even at lower speeds. Injuries sustained in these accidents are frequently more severe, ranging from multiple fractures to traumatic brain injuries. Some victims may also be dealing with emotional trauma or permanent disability.

What makes these incidents especially challenging is that multiple parties might be involved—drivers, employers, freight companies, or manufacturers of faulty equipment. Knowing who is responsible and how to proceed takes more than filing a standard insurance claim.

Common causes in these cases often include:

• Fatigued or distracted driving
• Mechanical failures or poor maintenance
• Unsafe lane changes or improper turns
• Overloaded or unsecured cargo

Truck companies are required to follow federal and state regulations, but those rules don’t prevent every crash. Sometimes, a simple violation—like skipped brake maintenance or falsified logs—can lead to tragedy. In those situations, legal support is crucial for gathering the facts and seeking fair compensation.

Working With Someone Who Can Help You Take Action

As a Washington DC truck accident lawyer, our role is to represent those who’ve been harmed by preventable commercial vehicle accidents. We start by reviewing key evidence—like police reports, witness statements, and black box data. From there, we help build a case that reflects the true impact of your injuries, both now and into the future.

When trucking companies or their insurers try to limit what they owe, we’re prepared to push back. You deserve full consideration for all your losses—physical, financial, and emotional.

Here are some types of damages we can help clients pursue:

• Emergency and ongoing medical care
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Rehabilitation and assistive devices
• Pain and suffering, both mental and physical

Why Our Team Is The Right Fit For Your Case

Clients consistently turn to us for personalized service and direct attention. We don’t treat your accident like a number—we get to know the details that matter most. Our past work includes serious crash cases involving major trucking firms and difficult liability questions. In one notable case, we helped a client secure compensation after a semi-truck made an illegal turn and caused lasting injury. That case involved both the driver and the company that employed them, and our team worked quickly to gather key evidence before it disappeared.

We’ve been recognized for our courtroom skills, but more importantly, we’ve earned the trust of clients who need both guidance and results.

Speak With A Team Who Can Represent Your Needs

If you’ve been hurt in a truck crash, don’t wait to protect your legal rights. At Cohen & Cohen, we’re here to discuss your situation and explain your options clearly. Reach out to schedule a confidential consultation today. Let’s talk about how we can help you move forward with strength and support.

Types of Truck Accident Cases We Handle

Truck accidents come in many forms, and each presents unique challenges for those affected. At Cohen & Cohen, we’ve worked with clients in a range of serious crash scenarios, helping them take meaningful steps toward recovery. From collisions with commercial rigs to highway pileups involving multiple vehicles, we understand the urgency these cases bring and the toll they take—physically, emotionally, and financially.

Whether you’re the victim or representing a loved one who was injured or killed, knowing what kind of accident occurred is the first step in pursuing a fair outcome. Below are the key types of truck-related incidents we handle, with attention to the specific conditions and causes that tend to arise in each.

Rear-End Crashes Involving Trucks

Due to their size and weight, trucks require a longer distance to come to a stop. When a truck driver fails to maintain a safe following distance, a rear-end crash can result in catastrophic damage, particularly when passenger vehicles are involved. These crashes often occur on congested roads or at high speeds, leaving little time to react.

Jackknife Accidents

When a trailer swings outward at an angle from the cab, it forms a “V” or L-shape known as a jackknife. This type of crash typically happens when a truck brakes too hard or too fast, often due to slippery conditions or poor load distribution. Jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes and cause chain reactions involving several vehicles.

Underride and Override Collisions

In underride crashes, a passenger vehicle slides under the rear or side of a trailer. These incidents are among the most deadly, often due to roof crush injuries. Override collisions occur when a truck drives over a smaller vehicle, typically in traffic slowdowns or sudden stops. Both cases highlight the importance of safety features that are sometimes absent or defective.

Tire Blowouts and Equipment Failures

We also represent clients injured due to equipment malfunctions, especially tire blowouts, which can cause trucks to veer out of their lanes or lose control. In these cases, we look into whether the issue stemmed from poor maintenance, manufacturing defects, or overloaded cargo contributing to strain on the tires.

Rollover Incidents

Truck rollovers can happen when a driver misjudges a curve, speeds on an incline, or loses control on a slick surface. In urban settings or narrow roads, these accidents can be especially dangerous to nearby drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. We investigate road conditions, truck speed, and cargo weight to determine where things went wrong.

Driver Fatigue and Long-Haul Accidents

Federal regulations limit how many hours truck drivers can spend behind the wheel, but violations are not uncommon. When a driver pushes beyond those limits or falsifies logbooks, fatigue sets in and reaction times slow. These long-haul cases often involve commercial carriers and call for a thorough review of employer practices.

Moving Forward with a Trusted Team

As a Washington DC truck accident lawyer, we at Cohen & Cohen take pride in our commitment to every case we accept. No matter the cause of the crash, we approach the investigation with clarity and focus. We examine vehicle records, driver logs, eyewitness accounts, and expert assessments to build a case grounded in facts.

Washington DC Truck Accident Law Infographic

7 Steps Our Lawyer Recommends After a Crash

A truck accident can be one of the most jarring experiences anyone goes through. In a matter of seconds, your life may change due to a crash involving a commercial vehicle that weighs tens of thousands of pounds. The shock is often followed by confusion, pain, and frustration—especially when fault is unclear or serious injuries are involved. At Cohen & Cohen, we understand the aftermath and the urgency to take the right steps quickly. The decisions made in those first hours and days can impact your recovery and any legal claim.

Check for Injuries and Get Medical Help

Health should always be the first priority. If you’re able, check on yourself and anyone else involved. Even if injuries don’t seem severe at the time, internal injuries, concussions, and soft-tissue damage can worsen over time. Medical records will also play a vital role later in supporting your claim.

Contact the Authorities

Calling the police is essential. The official accident report provides documentation of the scene, witness statements, and preliminary findings about how the crash occurred. Make sure to give your version of events clearly and stick to the facts without speculating or assigning blame.

Take Photos and Preserve the Scene

If it’s safe to do so, take detailed photographs of the vehicles, any visible injuries, skid marks, road conditions, and signage. This visual evidence can support your case later, especially if truck size, damage, or environmental factors come into question.

Gather Contact and Insurance Information

Exchange details with the truck driver, including name, license number, company name, truck registration, and insurance carrier. If there were witnesses, politely ask for their contact information too. Their statements can be helpful if liability becomes disputed.

Avoid Speaking With Insurance Adjusters Alone

After the accident, you may receive a call from a claims representative asking for a recorded statement. It’s best not to engage without legal representation. Insurance companies are trained to minimize claims and may use your words against you. Let a qualified professional handle communication on your behalf.

Keep Track of Expenses and Missed Work

Document every expense related to the accident—ambulance fees, medical bills, prescriptions, lost wages, and any damage to your vehicle. These records will be critical in determining the value of your case. Organizing this information early can make the legal process smoother and reduce stress later on.

Reach Out to a Legal Advocate

Truck accidents often involve multiple parties—drivers, trucking companies, and insurers. These cases require a strong understanding of both federal trucking regulations and local traffic laws. Working with a team that knows how to investigate thoroughly and advocate effectively is key. Our Washington DC truck accident lawyer at Cohen & Cohen can guide you through each step and help you focus on your recovery while they handle the legal side.

If you’ve been in a truck accident, don’t wait. The earlier you take action, the better your chances of recovering full compensation. Contact Cohen & Cohen today to discuss your case in a free consultation. We’re here to listen, evaluate, and take the next steps with you.

Washington DC Truck Accident FAQs

What is a truck accident lawyer, and when should I consider hiring one?

A truck accident lawyer is a legal professional specializing in cases related to accidents involving commercial trucks. These accidents can be complex due to the size and weight of trucks, often resulting in severe injuries and significant property damage. You should consider hiring a truck accident lawyer if you’ve been involved in a collision with a commercial truck and need assistance navigating the legal complexities to ensure fair compensation for your losses.

What makes truck accident cases different from other types of accidents?

Truck accident cases differ from other accidents primarily due to the unique factors associated with commercial trucks. These factors include federal regulations governing the trucking industry, multiple parties involved (such as the truck driver, trucking company, and possibly others), and the severity of injuries and damages. Truck accident lawyers are well-versed in these complexities and can provide tailored legal representation.

What role does a truck accident lawyer play in the legal process?

A truck accident lawyer plays a crucial role in guiding you through the legal process. They investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court. Their expertise ensures that all aspects of your case are thoroughly examined, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

How do I choose the right truck accident lawyer for my case?

Choosing the right Washington D.C. truck accident lawyer is essential for a successful outcome. Look for a lawyer with experience in handling truck accident cases, a track record of successful settlements or verdicts, and positive client reviews. Additionally, consider their communication style, accessibility, and commitment to your case.

What damages can I recover in a truck accident case?

In a truck accident case, you may be entitled to various damages, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. A skilled truck accident lawyer will assess the specifics of your case and pursue all available avenues for compensation.

How long does it take to resolve a truck accident case?

The duration of a truck accident case varies based on factors such as the complexity of the case, negotiations with insurance companies, and the need for litigation. While some cases may be resolved through settlements relatively quickly, others may take several months or even years. Your lawyer will keep you informed about the progress of your case and provide realistic expectations regarding the timeline.

Will I have to go to court if I hire a truck accident lawyer?

Not necessarily. Many truck accident cases are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies, leading to a settlement without going to court. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court to ensure your rights are protected.

If you were hurt in a truck accident, schedule a meeting with a Washington D.C. truck accident lawyer to discuss your case. At Cohen & Cohen, we want to help you get justice.

How long after an accident with a commercial truck do I have to file a lawsuit?

There is a time limit for filing a lawsuit for personal injury cases, commonly known as the statute of limitations. Generally speaking, there is a three-year limit in Washington DC, meaning that personal injury claims must be filed or otherwise resolved within three years of the incident where the injury occurred. Exceptions to this rule may be made based on external factors. If you were recently involved in an accident with a commercial truck, speak with a qualified lawyer who specializes in truck accident-related cases. A lawyer will be able to explain how the statute of limitations pertain to your specific situation.

What factors imply liability on behalf of the trucking company?

Most commercial trucking companies are responsible for planning the routes of their drivers and providing the truck itself for use by the driver. That being said, in some cases the trucking companies are only sometimes liable for their drivers actions, regardless of evidence of negligence on behalf of the driver.

The commercial trucking company may also be found to be liable if they own the truck that the driver was operating, and are also responsible for maintenance. When the trucking company fails to properly maintain their trucks, and an accident happens as a result of said lack of maintenance, they will likely be found to be liable for the accident and resulting damages.

What is the goal of a truck accident lawsuit?

Generally the goal of a lawsuit against a trucking company following an accident that resulted in damages to personal property, serious injury, and fatalities, is to obtain financial compensation for damages that were sustained. Filing a lawsuit effectively serves as a viable option to aid in making the long and costly road to recovery less impactful.

What should I do if I am offered a settlement following a truck accident?

Insurance companies that cover commercial trucking businesses will likely attempt to offer a settlement to victims of the accident in an attempt to avoid further legal proceedings. Although a settlement is in many cases the easier option, such settlements are usually far lower than the amount that victims could obtain by means of a personal injury lawsuit. If you were offered a settlement after an accident with a commercial truck, arrange to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

How do I proceed if the truck accident resulted in my passengers’ fatality?

If the accident resulted in fatality to a passenger in your vehicle you may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim. A lawyer who specializes in truck accidents will be able to advise you on the best course of action for the unique needs of your case.

Washington Truck Accident Law Statistics

According to data collected by the Washington State Department of Transportation

• 42 fatal crashes in Washington State involving commercial trucks
• 7k collisions involving heavy trucks in Washington State
• 95 serious injury collisions Involving Semi-trucks and 1,422 minor injury collisions.

Cohen & Cohen Washington Truck Accident Lawyer

1730 Rhode Island Avenue, NW, Suite #410 Washington, DC 20036

Washington Truck Accident Lawyer Google Review

“My experience with Cohen &Cohen was beyond my expectations. Jill did an amazing job with negotiating on my behalf and got me way more money than I anticipated. Thank you for having my back.” L. P.

Why We’re the Right Team for You

Truck accidents can have life-altering effects, but with Cohen & Cohen by your side, you’re not alone. Our commitment to clients means we’re always just a call away, ready to answer questions and keep you informed. We take pride in offering empathetic, effective legal representation to truck accident victims in Washington, DC. Our founding partner, Wayne Cohen, is regularly appearing in the press. He discussed courtroom lawyers’ use of AI on CNBC, How Law Firms Are Using Artificial Intelligence in Their Practices on US News, Holiday Injuries on Newsweek and more.

We understand the unique complexities and serious consequences that come with truck accident cases. As experienced truck accident lawyers based in Washington, DC, we are dedicated to guiding you through this difficult time with compassion and expertise.