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Experienced truck accident attorney in Idaho and Montana. Get the compensation you deserve. Call Powell Law Firm for a no-cost case evaluation today.
At Powell Law Firm, we understand the complexities and challenges that arise from trucking accidents. Since 1997, we have substantial experience in truck accident litigation. Powell Law Firm handles major car accident and truck accident cases and has recovered millions of dollars on behalf of injured clients. Mr. Powell successfully represented the most seriously injured survivor of one of the worst semi-truck accident in history of the State of Montana, which occurred on Interstate 90 (I-90) near Superior, MT in 2018.
Bryce Powell is a nationally recognized trial attorney featured by major media outlets such as CNN, ABC News, CBS News, NBC News, Fox News, the New York Times, LA Times, Chicago Tribune, Boston Globe, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, the Guardian, the New Zealand Herald, AP, the Washington Post, Reuters, the BBC, USA Today and others. Recognized among America’s Top 100 Attorneys® in the field of personal injury law. Less than one-half percent (0.5%) of active attorneys in the United States receive this honor.
Powell Law Firm has offices located in Sandpoint, Idaho and Bozeman, Montana. Licensed in Idaho since 1997 and Montana since 1999.
For car accident or truck accident lawyers in Montana or Idaho, contact Powell Law Firm. The top name in trucking accident law.
“Semi-truck,” “big rig,” “tractor-trailer,” and “18-wheeler” are all terms commonly used to describe large commercial trucks. On average, truck drivers travel many more miles than drivers of passenger cars, and a larger proportion of those miles are on interstate highways. Idaho and Montana share major trucking routes. Trucks are dangerous to share the road with because they have a cargo weight of more than 80,000 pounds and need twice the stopping distance of a car. In the U.S. approximately 9% of all vehicles involved in fatal traffic crashes are large trucks.
Semi-trucking accidents can result in severe injuries, medical bills, lost wages, property damage, suffering and emotional distress. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), large trucks were involved in approximately 5% of all fatal motor vehicle crashes in 2023, highlighting the need for truck accident attorneys. In 2021 5,788 people were killed and an estimated 154,993 people were injured in traffic crashes involving large trucks. The car accident and truck accident lawyers of Powell Law Firm represent victims injured in large truck collisions throughout Idaho and Montana.
Trucking companies haul a tremendous amount of goods throughout the U.S. In 2022, commercial truckers moved 72.6% of the nation’s freight, by weight with 14.3 million single unit and combination trucks traveling over 330 billion miles.
In recent years, there have been approximately 100,000 to 150,000 truck accidents reported annually in the U.S. resulting in over 5000 fatalities and 73,000 injuries. Of fatal injuries 66% were passenger vehicle occupants while only 17% of these deaths were truck occupants. The remaining 16% were pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycles. 87% of large truck crashes are attributable to driver error.
In 2022, Idaho reported 1496 large truck accidents, accounting for 3% of all vehicle crashes. The economic cost of crashes involving commercial motor vehicles was over $627 million, which was 13% of the total cost of Idaho crashes.
The number of fatalities resulting from truck accidents in Idaho varies but has been reported to be between 20 and 40 fatalities per year. In 2022, 11.4% of vehicles involved in fatal traffic accidents were large trucks.
Contact the experienced Idaho car accident and truck accident attorneys at Powell Law Firm, in Sandpoint, Idaho.
In 2023, Montana had 711 large truck accidents including 693 non-fatal accidents and 18 fatal accidents. There were 27 fatalities in Montana from large truck accidents.
In 2022, Montana was among the states with the highest percentage of large trucks involved in fatal crashes at 14.5%.
An astonishing 9 of 10 fatal crashes in Montana happen on rural roadways.
Contact the experienced Montana car accident and truck accident attorneys at Powell Law Firm in Bozeman, Montana.
Crashes caused by semi-truck drivers result in some of the worst motor vehicle accident injuries in the U.S.. Truck accidents are generally more dangerous and likely to cause serious catastrophic injuries for several reasons:
Commercial trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. Large trucks often weight 20-30 times as much as passenger vehicles. The sheer mass of a truck means that in a collision, the force of impact is much greater, leading to more severe damage and injuries.
Trucks have a higher center of gravity compared to cars, making them more prone to rollovers during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. Rollovers can lead to catastrophic injuries for occupants of both the truck and other vehicles involved.
Trucks require a 40% longer distance to come to a complete stop due to their weight. This can be particularly dangerous in emergency situations where quick stopping is necessary to avoid a collision.
Due to their size, trucks have larger turning radii and limited visibility. This can make it difficult for truck drivers to navigate safely in tight spaces or react quickly to sudden obstacles.
Truck drivers often work long hours and spend days on the road, subject to hours of service (HOS) regulations. Fatigue can cause shortfalls in driving performance impairing reaction times and decision-making, and thus increasing the likelihood of accidents.
If cargo is not loaded correctly, it can shift during transit, affecting the truck’s balance and handling. Overloaded trucks can also exceed weight limits, further complicating braking and maneuverability.
Some truck drivers may lack sufficient training in handling large vehicles, especially in adverse conditions. Inexperienced drivers may make errors that lead to serious accidents.
Trucking companies often transport hazardous materials. In the event of an accident, these substances can leak, creating additional dangers such as fires, explosions, or toxic exposure.
The kinetic energy involved in a collision with a truck is much greater than with a standard passenger vehicle. This increased force can result in catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputation, organ damage and multiple bone fractures.
Semi-trucks have a higher risk of causing multi-vehicle accidents due to their sheer size and weight. Coupled with the high speed of Idaho and Montana interstate highway travel and decreased stopping distance.
Limited visibility in semi-trucks, often referred to as “blind spots,” significantly increases the risk of accidents because it prevents truck drivers from seeing other vehicles or pedestrians around them. This can make it difficult for semi drivers to react to potential hazards, resulting in collisions.
Some trucking companies may prioritize profit over safety, leading to violations of regulations regarding driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and safety protocols. Which can increase the likelihood of injury accidents. Truck accident lawyers thoroghly examine trucking company records for regulatory compliance issues.
These factors contribute to the heightened risks associated with truck accidents, often resulting in serious catastrophic injuries for those involved, including car passengers, pedestrians, motorcyclists and even other truck occupants.
If you have been injured in a car accident or trucking accident in Idaho or Montana contact us for a FREE consultation
Personal injury attorneys play a crucial role in helping victims seek justice and fair compensation for their injuries and losses. Choosing the right legal representation after a car accident or trucking accident is vital to success. Since 2000 Powell Law Firm has litigated many trucking accident cases in Idaho and Montana, securing seven-figure settlements and millions of dollars in compensation for victims. Here are compelling reasons to choose Powell Law Firm:
Extensive Experience
Powell Law Firm has handled a multitude of motor vehicle and trucking accident cases. As a state prosecutor, private defense and plaintiff’s personal injury attorney, Bryce Powell has extensive courtroom-based experience from every side of motor vehicle accident litigation. Mr. Powell successfully represented the most seriously injured driver in a 5 truck pile-up in 2018 which was one of the worst truck accidents in Montana's history.
Our attorneys are well-versed in federal and state trucking regulations, including the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines. This deep knowledge allows us to identify potential violations that may strengthen your case. Bryce Powell is recognized among America's Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys®. Only 0.5% of active attorneys in the United States receive this honor.
Comprehensive Investigations
We conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding your accident, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, consulting with accident reconstruction experts, and reviewing trucking company records to ensure no detail is overlooked.
Understanding of Liability
In truck accidents, liability can be complex due to multiple potential defendants (e.g., the truck driver, the trucking company, vehicle manufacturers). An experienced attorney can analyze the situation to determine who is at fault and hold them accountable. Since 1997, Powell Law Firm has vast experience litigating auto accidents, causation and legal liability in Idaho and Montana.
Tailored Legal Strategies
Every case is unique. We develop customized legal strategies tailored to the specific details of your accident, ensuring that we address your individual needs and objectives. Having handled thousands of cases in courtrooms throughout Idaho and Montana, Powell Law Firm has the experience to employ effective legal strategies customized to the facts and circumstances of your case.
Skilled Negotiation
Insurance companies often attempt to settle for the lowest amount possible. Experienced attorneys have strong negotiation skills and know how to advocate for fair compensation that reflects the full extent of injuries and damages. Our legal team is skilled in negotiating with insurance companies and opposing attorneys. We fight for a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs.
Trial-Ready Representation
We prepare every case with the assumption that it will go to trial by jury. While many cases settle out of court, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and are well prepared to call on a jury to award fair compensation for your damages. Mr. Powell has been a practicing trial lawyer since 1997.
Resource Access
Our law firm has access to a network of experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, who can provide valuable insights and testimony to support your case. With many years of experience in Idaho and Montana, we have the proven legal resources to effectively prosecute your case.
No Fees Unless You Win
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we successfully recover compensation for you. This arrangement allows you to pursue your claim without the worry of upfront legal fees. And insures that we have a direct interest in recovering the highest value for your injuries.
Compassionate Client Support
We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a trucking accident can be overwhelming. Our team provides compassionate support throughout the legal process, ensuring you feel informed and empowered every step of the way.
Proven Results
Our firm has a track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients and have secured multi-million-dollar settlements on behalf of trucking accident victims we represent.
Community Focused
As an Idaho-based law firm with extensive family and business ties to Montana, we are deeply rooted in our community. Powell Law Firm cares about clients and their families and works relentlessly to advocate for their rights.
No-Cost Case Evaluation
We offer a no-cost, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case, allowing you to understand your legal options and how we can assist you without any financial pressure. For semi-truck injury accidents in Idaho or Montana, call Powell Law Firm.
Or submit the on-line form and we will reach out to you.
In summary, having an experienced attorney on your side can significantly influence the outcome of car accident or truck accident litigation, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Licensed in Idaho since 1997 and Montana since 1999. Put our extensive experience to work for you.
If you have been involved in a serious trucking injury accident in Idaho or Montana
The transportation of goods is the backbone of the economy in Idaho and Montana. And the trucking industry plays a major role in transporting goods across the country. In Montana, commercial vehicles travel approximately 3.35 million miles per day. In Idaho, the trucking industry employs 44,260 jobs. With many hours on the road, truckers are likely to encounter a multitude of dangerous driving situations. When trucking accidents occur, injuries can be severe. Trucking crashes may lead to catastrophic injuries due to various causes. Here are some common factors that contribute to these serious accidents:
Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving. Activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating or drinking, or adjusting in-cab controls can divert a driver’s attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents. According to NHTSA, an estimated 3308 fatalities were caused by distracted driving.
Speeding
Driving above the speed limit reduces a driver's ability to react to sudden obstacles and increases the severity of collisions, often leading to catastrophic injuries. And semi-trucks have longer stopping distance than passenger cars. Approximately 21-32% of fatal truck crashes involve speed as a contributing factor.
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction times, significantly increasing the likelihood of severe accidents. In 2021 Montana had the highest percentage of alcohol impaired driving traffic fatalities in the country at 44% while Idaho ranked high at 31%.
Aggressive behaviors, such as tailgating, changing lanes without signaling, and road rage, can lead to dangerous situations that result in serious injuries.
Rain, snow, ice, or fog can create hazardous driving conditions. Poor visibility and slippery roads increase the risk of losing control of the vehicle. The vast majority of weather-related crashes occur on wet pavement and during rainfall.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Failing to obey traffic signals can result in high-impact collisions at intersections, often causing catastrophic injuries to occupants of all vehicles involved. Around 700,000 police-reported crashes occur at stop signs annually.
Mechanical failures, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, can lead to loss of control and serious accidents. Poor vehicle maintenance can exacerbate these risks. When vehicle defects are involved, the most common factors are tire problems and brake failure.
New or inexperienced drivers may lack the necessary skills to handle complex driving situations, leading to mistakes that can result in severe accidents. In 2022 teens accounted for 7% of all fatal crashes in the U.S. despite making up only 3.6% of licensed drivers.
Drowsy driving impairs attention and reaction time, similar to driving under the influence of alcohol. Fatigued drivers are more likely to cause accidents.
Failing to check blind spots or signal when changing lanes can lead to collisions with other vehicles, especially on busy highways. Around 530,000 crashes annually are attributed to improper lane changes.
Driving While Intoxicated by Prescription Medications
Certain medications can impair driving abilities, and combining them with alcohol can further increase risks. Prescription drugs are the most prevalent of all drugs found in drugged drivers involved in fatal crashes (47%).
Poorly maintained roads, potholes, lack of signage, and inadequate lighting can contribute to accidents, particularly for drivers who are unaware of the hazards. Around 20% of heavy truck crashes were caused, in part, by poor road quality.
If you have been injured in a car accident or large truck accident in Idaho or Montana
Victims of trucking or car crashes in Idaho and Montana may recover a variety of damages depending on the specifics of the case. Here are the primary categories of damages that can typically be pursued:
Current and Future Medical Costs: In Idaho and Montana, medical expenses from car accidents are calculated by adding up all reasonable and necessary medical bills incurred due to the accident. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and ongoing medical treatment.
Income Loss: Victims can seek compensation for wages lost during their recovery period, including any potential future earnings if they are unable to return to work due to their injuries. Idaho and Montana court decisions require damages to be formulated in present value.
Compensation for Physical Pain: This non-economic damage accounts for the physical pain and discomfort endured as a result of the accident and injuries. Insurance companies sometimes use a “multiplier” of economic damages to assess value to pain and suffering.
Mental Health Impact: Victims may also claim damages for emotional suffering, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by the accident. Assessing the value of damages depends on factors such as the nature of the impact, duration of emotional distress and impact on quality of life.
Impact on Relationships: This refers to the loss of companionship, affection, guidance and support experienced by the victim’s spouse or family members due to the victim’s injuries.
Property Damage
Vehicle Repairs or Replacement: Compensation for the cost of repairing or replacing the vehicle damaged in the accident, as well as any personal property that was damaged or lost. Fair market value assessments are often based on information from sources such as Kelley Blue Book.
For Gross Negligence: In cases where the trucking company or driver acted with gross negligence, recklessness, malice or willfull or wanton disregard to the safety of others, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the offender and deter similar behavior in the future. Idaho law and Montana law limit the amount and availability of punitive damages.
Restoring Function and Long-term Care Needs: In a car accident case, “rehabilitation costs” refer to the expenses incurred for medical treatments like physical, occupational or other therapies to restore s person’s functionality after an accident. If the victim requires ongoing rehabilitation services, home care, or assistive devices, these costs can be included in the claim.
Future Income Loss: If injuries impact the victim’s ability to work in the future or limit career opportunities, they may claim damages for loss of earning capacity. To calculate future lost income from a car crash injury, you need to analyze past earnings, project future earning capacity without the injury and subtract projected post-injury earning capacity, considering a number of factors.
Other Related Costs: Can include travel expenses for medical appointments, home modifications, and any other out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the motor vehicle accident. These damages are considered “economic damages” and can be included in a personal injury claim if necessitated by the injury.
Each case is unique, and the specific damages recoverable will depend on the circumstances surrounding the accident, the extent of injuries, and the impact on the victim’s life. Consulting with an experienced Montana and Idaho car accident and trucking accident lawyer can help victims understand the full range of damages they may be entitled to pursue.
If you have been injured in a semi-truck accident in Idaho or Montana
A “wrongful death” is one caused by wrongful action such as negligence, carelessness, intentional action or criminal conduct. Wrongful death is the basis for a lawsuit (wrongful death action) against the party or parties who caused the death filed on behalf of members of the deceased’s family. In cases of wrongful death resulting from car accidents or trucking accidents in Idaho or Montana, the damages that may be recoverable typically include the following:
Funeral and Burial Expenses
Costs for Final Arrangements: This includes expenses related to the funeral service, burial or cremation, and any associated costs such as transportation of the body or memorial services.
Medical Expenses Prior to Death
Costs Incurred Before Passing: Any medical expenses incurred by the deceased prior to their death as a result of the accident, including hospital bills, surgeries, and medical treatments.
Loss of Income
Future Earnings: Compensation for the income the deceased would have earned had they lived, including lost wages and benefits, as well as any potential future earnings based on career trajectory.
Loss of Companionship
Emotional Loss for Survivors: This includes the loss of love, companionship, and support that family members experience due to the death of a loved one.
Loss of Consortium
Impact on Spousal Relationship: Specifically for spouses, this refers to the loss of affection, intimacy, and partnership due to the death of the spouse.
Pain and Suffering of the Deceased
Compensation for Suffering: In some jurisdictions, damages may be sought for the pain and suffering experienced by the deceased from the time of the accident until their death. Idaho specifically excludes pain and suffering while Montana may allow some recovery through a "survival action."
Loss of Guidance and Support
Parental Guidance: For children who lose a parent to wrongful death, compensation may be sought for the loss of guidance, mentorship, and support that the parent would have provided.
Punitive Damages
For Reckless Behavior: In cases where the semi-truck driver or trucking company’s actions were particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded as a form of punishment and deterrence.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Other Related Costs: This can include any other expenses incurred due to the wrongful death, such as costs for counseling services for family members coping with the loss.
Estate Administration Costs
Legal and Administrative Fees: Costs associated with administering the deceased's estate, including attorney fees and court costs related to the wrongful death claim.
Each wrongful death case is unique, and the specific damages recoverable will depend on various factors, including the deceased’s age, earning potential, relationship with survivors, and the circumstances surrounding the accident. Consulting an experienced car accident and truck accident lawyer can help families understand their rights and the damages they may be entitled to pursue.
If a loved one has been killed in a fatal trucking accident in Idaho or Montana
After a personal injury trucking accident, it’s important to take the following steps:
Ensure Safety
First, make sure everyone is safe. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further accidents or injuries.
Call Emergency Services
Contact the police and medical personnel if there are injuries. A police report can be essential for insurance claims.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if injuries seem minor, it's crucial to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some medical injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Adhere to the treatment plan provided by your healthcare professional and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper recovery.
Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Identify sources of surveillance camera or cell phone footage that may have captured the car accident. Note the time, date, and weather conditions.
Collect insurance policy details and contact information from all parties involved, including witnesses. This information is vital for accident reports and insurance claims.
Avoid Admitting Fault
Do not discuss the details of the motor vehicle accident or admit fault at the scene. Fault determination can be complicated and is best left to attorneys, insurance companies, experts and authorities.
Notify Your Insurance
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, providing them with the necessary details and documentation. Provide the claim number and insurance adjuster contact information to your lawyer and let them handle claim settlement negotiations.
Keep Records
Maintain a record of all medical treatments, expenses, and any correspondence related to the motor vehicle accident. This documentation will be important for insurance claim settlement or legal actions including lawsuits.
Gather Insurance Information
Gather your own health and auto insurance information, as well as Medicare or Medicaid details. Auto insurance policies often include no-fault medical pay provisions, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Health insurance companies or government benefit programs may initially pay for accident-related injuries subject to a right to be reimbursed from proceeds of settlement.
Contact a Lawyer
An experienced truck accident attorney can help gather accident and medical information, negotiate with insurance companies, navigate the legal complexities of your case, reach settlement and recover damages for you. Contact the Idaho & Montana personal injury lawyers at Powell Law Firm. The sooner you reach out the more effective our accident attorneys can be.
Recover Damages
Once retained, Powell Law Firm will begin work immediately to recover economic damages on your behalf. We will notify the insurance company of our representation and undertake all further contact. Whether through a negotiated or mediated settlement with the insurance company, or through a jury trial, verdict and judgment. Our truck accident lawyers work to maximize recovery and get you back on your feet.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website is for general information purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Visiting this site or contacting Powell Law Firm through this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.
Powell law firm handles personal injury, car accidents and truck accidents in Montana and Idaho. Statewide practice in serious car accident and trucking accident cases with offices in Sandpoint, ID and Bozeman, MT.
For detailed information about service areas in Montana and Idaho:
At Powell Law Firm, we believe that every victim of a car accident or trucking accident deserves justice and to recover as fully as possible. If you have been injured in a car or truck accident or lost a loved one to a fatal accident in Idaho or Montana, please contact us immediately.
Call today at 208.263.3531 or submit our online form to schedule your free consultation. Powell Law Firm works on a contingent fee, receiving compensation only when we recover damages for you. Together, we will attain the justice and compensation you deserve.
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