Truck Accident

A wreck with a large truck on a Portland freeway or arterial is often more than a bigger two-car crash. When a for-hire carrier hauls ordinary, non-hazardous property across state lines, in a vehicle whose gross weight rating is at least 10,001 pounds, the public-liability minimum is $750,000 under 49 CFR 387.9, with higher tiers for hazardous loads the table describes. Federal hours-of-service limits in 49 CFR 395.3 can become evidence if fatigue is in issue. Photograph the name on the door and any number on the cab or trailer, if it is safe to do so.

Oregon’s two-year period in section 12.110 and comparative fault under section 31.600 still apply. A commercial truck may not be the vehicle that supplies PIP, so ask about household coverage as well. Our truck guide walks through the federal floors and the hours rules.