01
Experienced on Both Sides of Courtroom
We believe that seeing both sides of cases helps us achieve better results for our clients.
02
A Track Record of Excellent Results
Excellent results in high-stake cases: We have recovered over $5 million in verdicts & settlements since 2019.
03
Speak Directly With an Attorney Today
You will talk directly to Ben or Bryan when you call us or have questions.
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We Know Insurance
Company Tactics
For decades we have been hired by insurers, so we know what factors help injured parties achieve the best recovery.
Portland Truck Accident Lawyer
When a standard passenger car collides with a 80,000-pound commercial tractor-trailer, the physical and financial consequences are almost always catastrophic. At Dawson Law Group, we understand that recovery involves far more than simply filing an insurance claim. It requires holding powerful trucking companies accountable and securing the financial support you need to rebuild your life. If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries on Oregon roadways, working with an experienced Portland truck accident lawyer ensures your rights are protected from day one.
Since 1999, our legal team has fought for injury victims across Portland, West Linn, and surrounding communities. We combine deep trial experience with an intimate knowledge of federal transportation regulations and local court systems. Unlike high-volume personal injury firms where clients are passed off to legal assistants, we take a hands-on, strategic approach to every case. When you partner with us, you speak directly with attorneys Bryan Dawson or Ben Larson, ensuring your claim receives the focused, high-level advocacy it deserves.
Why Commercial Truck Collisions Demand a Unique Legal Approach
Truck accident claims are fundamentally different from typical passenger vehicle crashes. The sheer physical size differential means that passenger car occupants absorb the vast majority of impact force, frequently leading to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple fractures, or wrongful death. However, the legal complexity of these claims extends far beyond the physical damage.
Commercial trucking is governed by a dense web of state statutes and federal safety codes. Establishing liability requires a detailed investigation into driver behavior, corporate hiring practices, vehicle maintenance history, and cargo loading protocols. Furthermore, multi-million-dollar commercial insurance policies mean that motor carriers dispatch rapid-response defense teams to the crash site within hours. To protect your claim, our legal team steps in just as quickly to secure crucial evidence before it can be altered, overwritten, or destroyed.
Our Advantage: Former Defense Perspective Working for You
At Dawson Law Group, we bring a distinct tactical edge to commercial vehicle litigation. Our lead attorneys have decades of background representing both plaintiffs and insurance companies. Having spent years on the defense side of the courtroom, we know exactly how trucking companies, risk managers, and defense counsel evaluate claims, attempt to minimize payouts, and delay proceedings.
We leverage this insider knowledge to dismantle defense strategies before they are fully deployed. We anticipate insurance company tactics, accurately calculate the lifetime value of complex medical claims, and negotiate from a position of absolute strength. If a commercial insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, our proven trial record signals that we are fully prepared to take your case to a jury.
Critical Evidence: Preserving EDR, ECM, and Black Box Data
One of the most critical aspects of investigating a tractor-trailer collision is securing the vehicle’s electronic data recorder (EDR) or electronic control module (ECM), commonly referred to as the truck’s “black box.” This onboard technology records vital telemetry data in the seconds leading up to, during, and immediately following a crash.
Our team acts aggressively to draft and serve formal Spoliation Letters on the trucking company, driver, and insurer. This legal document mandates that the motor carrier preserve all physical, mechanical, and digital evidence related to the crash. Critical evidence we extract and analyze includes:
- Vehicle Speed and Braking: Precise readings showing how fast the semi-truck was traveling and exactly when the driver applied the brakes prior to impact.
- Engine RPM and Throttle Position: Technical indicators revealing whether the driver was accelerating, coasting, or attempting evasive maneuvers.
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Records: Digital records tracking driver hours to identify Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Hours-of-Service violations and driver fatigue.
- GPS and Telematics Data: Precise route tracking, real-time location data, and historic driving behavior patterns.
- Dashcam Footage: Forward-facing and cab-facing video recordings capturing road conditions, traffic flow, and driver attentiveness.
Trucking companies are legally permitted to overwrite or routine-purge certain electronic records after specific timeframes unless a formal legal demand is served. Retaining a dedicated Portland truck accident lawyer immediately after a collision ensures this digital evidence is forensically extracted and preserved for trial.
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Settlement received by Dawson Law Group
“The state will pay … the largest settlement in Department of Corrections history … The settlement amount is unprecedented.”
The Oregonian, October 14, 2020
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Our Results
$2.3 mil
18-Wheeler Accident
Settlement for policy limits after multiple semi-trucks collided on an Eastern Oregon highway.
$1.5 mil
Commercial Truck Case
Policy limits settlement after a speeding commercial truck struck multiple vehicles in North Portland.
$1.1 mil
Semi-Truck Accident
Recovery for our client who suffered serious injuries after striking a jackknifed semi-truck during a winter storm on I-84.
$1.1 mil
Truck Accident
Policy limits recovery for our client whose vehicle flipped in a trucking crash, despite the trucking company denying liability.
$1.3 Mil
Auto Accident
Victim of an auto accident vs. drunk driver and bar that served a visibly intoxicated patron.
$2.5 mil
Personal Injury
Recovered amount for a client injured in an industrial accident.
Meet
the Lawyers
Principal Attorney Bryan Dawson—an AV-Rated Super Lawyer with nearly 30 years in the courtroom—has tried or arbitrated 100+ cases and recovered millions for Oregon injury victims, giving clients instant leverage at the negotiating table. Working beside him, Ben Larson, an Oregon native practicing since 2009, takes a creative, collaborative approach and is known for clear, thorough client communication. Together they blend deep trial experience with fresh strategic thinking to handle everything from complex truck-accident and wrongful-death claims to everyday motor-vehicle injuries. When you partner with Dawson Law Group, you get a team that pairs proven results with the personal attention every client deserves.
Meet Our Attorneys Bryan Dawson & Ben Larson
Bryan Dawson - Principal Attorney
With nearly 30 years of trial experience, Bryan Dawson is the visionary Principal Attorney leading Dawson Law Group. A highly respected advocate, Bryan has dedicated his career to securing millions in compensation for clients across Oregon in personal injury, wrongful death, and complex litigation cases. His strategic approach, combined with an approachable style and deep legal knowledge, ensures clients receive both exceptional representation and clear, consistent communication, earning him a reputation as a trusted advocate for both plaintiffs and defendants.
- Core Expertise: Specializing in serious injury, wrongful death, and complex litigation, with extensive experience in car accidents, civil rights, employment law, construction defect disputes, and patent infringement.
- Extensive Trial Record: Successfully tried over 100 cases to verdict or arbitration, including arguments before the prestigious Federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Bryan has been the Principal Attorney at Dawson Law Group since 1999, building the firm's legacy of success after honing his skills at Cooley Godward in California.
- Professional Achievements: Dawson has been recognized as a Super Lawyer (2018–2025), earned an AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, and holds a 10/10 Avvo Rating. He was also honored with the 2018 Marquis Who’s Who Lifetime Achievement Award and frequently serves as a court-appointed arbitrator and CLE instructor—experience that strengthens his ability to take on powerful trucking and insurance companies.
- Dedication to the Community: In addition to representing injury victims, Dawson gives back by mentoring young attorneys, teaching continuing legal education (CLE) courses, and coaching high school mock trial teams—demonstrating his ongoing commitment to justice and leadership in Oregon’s legal community.
- Education & Credentials: Earned his Juris Doctor from UC Berkeley (Boalt Hall), holds an M.A. from the University of Chicago, and a B.A. from Claremont McKenna College. He is an active member of the Oregon State Bar, the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Oregon Association of Defense Counsel.
- Portland Involvement & Personal Life: A proud Portland native, Bryan is deeply rooted in the Lake Oswego community, where he enjoys coaching youth sports, various outdoor activities, and spending quality time with his family. He maintains an active lifestyle, often commuting to work by bicycle.
Ben Larson
Ben Larson brings a creative, collaborative, and highly effective approach to every case he handles at Dawson Law Group. Since 2009, he has diligently recovered damages for clients across a wide spectrum of personal injury and wrongful death matters. Ben's commitment lies in ensuring thorough and proactive communication, empowering clients with clear understanding of their case progress and potential outcomes, so they always feel informed and supported.
- Key Expertise: Highly skilled in representing both plaintiffs and defendants in complex personal injury and wrongful death cases, demonstrating particular aptitude for meticulous case development and strategic negotiation.
- Strong Credentials: Earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Oregon School of Law after completing his Bachelor’s in Political Science at the University of Oregon. He is admitted to practice before both the Oregon Bar and Federal Court.
- Client-Centric Approach: Known for his focus on clear, proactive communication that keeps clients fully informed, coupled with creative problem-solving techniques designed to achieve optimal results and secure maximum recovery.
- Personal Pursuits: A lifelong Portland native, Ben embraces Oregon's diverse outdoor lifestyle, enjoying activities such as traveling, ski touring, biking, camping, and climbing. His global perspective is enriched by his studies abroad in both Israel and Spain.
Awards & Memberships
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents in Portland
If I was injured in a Portland truck accident, what compensation can I expect?
The compensation for a personal injury claim resulting from an accident with a commercial truck in Portland depends on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life moving forward. Several factors will influence the value of your claim, including:
- Past medical expenses
- Future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
How long do personal injury claims from truck accidents typically take to resolve, and when will I receive compensation?
Our Portland personal injury attorneys work to maximize compensation for our clients as quickly as possible, allowing them to focus on recovery. Most cases are resolved in a few months without going to trial. However, if a trial is necessary to secure fair compensation, we are fully prepared to take the case to court. We have a proven track record in securing results for our clients. Learn more.
What does it cost to consult with a truck accident lawyer in Portland, Oregon?
At Dawson Law Group, we handle personal injury cases on a contingency basis. This means you only pay legal fees if we secure compensation for you. For a detailed explanation, visit our Contingent Fees page. Our consultations are free and fully confidential. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Portland, contact us at 503-656-0400. We’re here to listen to your story, explain your legal options, and help you navigate the personal injury claims process.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Truck Accidents in Oregon?
In Oregon, the statute of limitations for filing a claim after a Portland truck accident is two years from the date of the accident, as outlined in Oregon Revised Statutes, section 12.110. This applies to personal injury claims, meaning you’ve got that window to take legal action. Acting sooner rather than later is smart, though—it gives your attorney more time to dig into the details and strengthen your case.
Does Oregon cap damages in truck-accident cases?
Economic damages are uncapped. A former $500k cap on noneconomic damages has been relaxed by recent Oregon Supreme Court rulings—ask your attorney for the latest precedent. Learn more about economic and non-economic damages in Portland.
How is black-box (ECM) data preserved after a crash?
Your lawyer can send a spoliation letter within days to compel the carrier to image ECM, ELD, and Qualcomm data before it’s overwritten (often 30–60 days). Learn more about black box data here.
Have more questions? Contact us for a free consultation with a trusted Portland truck accident injury lawyer.
How an experienced attorney can help with
Trucking Accidents in Portland
Local Knowledge: Portland’s High-Risk Freight Corridors
Navigating commercial vehicle claims in the Pacific Northwest requires a clear understanding of local traffic patterns, topography, and seasonal weather challenges. Portland serves as a major logistical hub for the Pacific Rim, funneling heavy freight through dense urban corridors and complex mountain passes. Our firm routinely handles complex trucking litigation arising from crashes on key regional routes, including:
- Interstate 5 (I-5): The primary West Coast freight artery, frequently congested through downtown Portland, the Marquette Bridge, and the Rose Quarter bottleneck. High traffic density combined with sudden slowdowns frequently leads to devastating rear-end truck collisions.
- Interstate 84 (I-84): Running east through the Columbia River Gorge, this corridor exposes commercial haulers to high crosswinds, sudden freezing rain, and steep grade changes, often leading to jackknife incidents and loss-of-control crashes.
- US Route 26 (Sunset Highway): Connecting Portland to the coast and high-tech corridors, heavy commuter traffic mixes with large timber and freight haulers, creating severe hazard zones around the Sylvan Pass.
- US Route 30 and Industrial Areas: High commercial traffic serving the Port of Portland, Northwest Industrial District, and Rivergate Industrial Park, where frequent turning maneuvers lead to side-impact and blind-spot collisions.
Navigating Complex Liability and Multiple Defendants
In a standard motor vehicle collision, liability usually rests with one negligent driver. In a commercial trucking crash, however, multiple corporate entities may share legal responsibility for your injuries. Our legal team conducts exhaustive corporate background investigations to identify all potential defendants, ensuring we pursue maximum compensation from every available insurance policy.
Potentially Liable Parties in a Commercial Truck Crash:
- The Truck Driver: For negligent behaviors such as distracted driving, speeding, driving while impaired, or violating federal rest-break mandates.
- The Motor Carrier / Trucking Company: For negligent hiring, inadequate driver training, pressuring drivers to exceed legal driving hours, or poor fleet oversight.
- Cargo Loaders and Shippers: For improperly balancing, over-weighting, or failing to properly secure heavy freight, leading to cargo shifts or rollover accidents.
- Third-Party Maintenance Providers: For failing to properly service critical mechanical systems, such as brakes, steering assemblies, or tires.
- Equipment Manufacturers: For design or manufacturing defects in truck components that contributed to mechanical failure.
Understanding Oregon Trucking Regulations and FMCSA Standards
Interstate commercial trucking is strictly regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), alongside regulations enforced by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). When a truck driver or transportation company breaks these safety standards, that violation serves as compelling evidence of negligence in a personal injury claim.
We meticulously cross-reference the facts of your crash against critical regulatory standards, including:
- Hours of Service (HOS) Compliance: Federal rules strictly cap commercial driving limits at 11 hours within a 14-hour duty window following 10 consecutive hours off-duty. We analyze ELD logs to uncover instances where drivers pushed past legal limits due to tight delivery deadlines.
- Medical Certifications and Substance Testing: Drivers must maintain valid DOT medical cards and undergo mandatory drug and alcohol screenings following major collisions or based on reasonable suspicion.
- Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Protocols: Motor carriers must maintain systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance records for every vehicle in their fleet. We review brake inspection logs and tire tread depth records to identify neglected maintenance.
- Oregon Weight and Size Limits: Oregon enforces strict rules regarding weight limits and permit requirements for oversize loads traveling state highways. Overloaded trucks require significantly longer stopping distances and put extreme stress on braking systems.
Immediate Steps to Protect Your Claim After a Collision
The steps you take following a commercial vehicle collision can significantly impact your physical recovery and legal outcome. To help protect your health and preserve your rights, we recommend taking the following actions:
- Seek Immediate Emergency Care: Your health is the absolute priority. Obtain comprehensive medical evaluation at a regional emergency trauma facility, such as OHSU Hospital, Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, or Providence Portland Medical Center. Immediate documentation creates a clear link between the crash and your injuries.
- Document the Scene Thoroughly: If you are physically able and it is safe to do so, take photos and videos of all damaged vehicles, tire skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals, and commercial logos on the truck cab and trailer.
- Gather Driver and Carrier Details: Obtain the truck driver’s license number, commercial driver’s license (CDL) details, USDOT number, MC number, insurance carrier, and employer name.
- Decline Recorded Statements from Commercial Adjusters: Corporate insurance adjusters are trained to contact crash victims quickly, offering fast, low-ball settlements or asking leading questions designed to shift fault. Do not provide a recorded statement or sign medical releases without legal representation.
- Consult a Skilled Legal Team: Contact our office as soon as possible. Entrusting your case to an experienced Portland truck accident lawyer ensures an immediate independent investigation begins while evidence is still fresh.
What Is Your Claim Worth? Recovering Full Compensation
Due to the severe nature of injuries caused by commercial haulers, financial losses can quickly become overwhelming. At Dawson Law Group, we collaborate with treating physicians, vocational experts, and life-care planners to accurately project the lifetime financial impact of your injuries. We fight aggressively to secure full compensation for all damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Full coverage for emergency transport, hospital stays, surgical procedures, specialized medical equipment, prescription medications, and lifetime physical therapy.
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: Compensation for income missed during recovery, as well as loss of future earning potential if your injuries prevent you from returning to your trade.
- Pain and Suffering: Financial recovery for physical pain, chronic suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and post-traumatic stress.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If you have lost a family member in a commercial truck crash, we help surviving relatives seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship under Oregon revised statutes.
Speak Directly with an Experienced Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial vehicle collision, do not face the corporate insurance companies alone. At Dawson Law Group, we provide compassionate, highly focused legal guidance aimed at securing maximum financial recovery for your injuries. Contact our Portland office today at (503) 656-0400 or complete our simple online consultation form to schedule your free, no-obligation case evaluation with our team.
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