What should you know about truck accidents in Washington?
I-5 between Tacoma and Everett and I-90 across the Cascades carry heavy truck traffic, and winter conditions on Snoqualmie and Stevens passes test drivers' skills. Agricultural freight on I-82 and US-395 through central and eastern Washington adds long-haul trucks.
Washington tip: Write down the carrier name and USDOT number — they identify the company and its insurer.
Who may be responsible for a truck accident in Washington?
Liability in a truck crash can extend beyond the driver to the companies behind the truck. In Washington, that can include the truck driver, the trucking company (motor carrier), the cargo shipper or loader — depending on who caused the crash.
Under Washington's pure comparative fault rule, a share of blame for the truck accident lowers what you can recover but never bars the claim outright. Read Washington car accident laws for the full rule.
How long do you have to file a truck accident claim in Washington?
Generally three years for a lawsuit, counted from the date of the truck accident. Claims involving Washington cities, counties or transit agencies can require written notice much sooner.