Metier Law Firm Personal Injury Blog

A massive multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 80 near Evanston, Wyoming shut down one of the state's most heavily traveled freight corridors on Wednesday afternoon, February 18, 2025, killing two people and injuring 22 others. Three victims were so severely hurt they were airlifted to medical centers in Utah.

The Wyoming State Patrol confirmed the crashes happened around 3 p.m. at mile marker 18, just east of Evanston, with incidents occurring simultaneously in both eastbound and westbound lanes. The scale of the westbound crash was staggering: 20 semi trucks and 12 passenger vehicles were involved. The eastbound lane saw a separate but related pileup involving multiple semis and passenger cars.

Both directions of I-80 were completely blocked. Troopers worked through the night alongside Uinta County Sheriff's Office, Uinta County Fire, EMS, and the Red Cross to rescue survivors, treat the injured, and clear the wreckage. All wreckers from Evanston were deployed, with additional units called in from Lyman. Uninjured survivors were transported to the Evanston machine shop for shelter via school buses.

Injuries ranged from broken legs and ribs to neck injuries and severe bruising. Twenty-two people were transported to Evanston Regional Hospital.

The Wyoming State Patrol's initial investigation points to traveling too fast for weather and road conditions as a primary contributing factor. The investigation is ongoing.

Wyoming's I-80 corridor through Uinta County is no stranger to dangerous winter conditions. High winds, sudden whiteout conditions, and rapidly changing road surfaces make this stretch one of the most hazardous for commercial truck traffic in the region. Federal regulations under 49 CFR Part 392.14 require commercial drivers to recognize hazardous conditions and reduce speed or stop when conditions make it unsafe to proceed. When that doesn't happen, the results can be catastrophic, as this crash made devastatingly clear.

If you or someone you love was injured in this crash or a similar Wyoming truck accident, you may have legal options. Speed-related commercial truck crashes often involve violations of federal safety regulations, and victims deserve to know their rights. If you or a loved one was injured in a crash with a commercial truck, call us at 866-377-3800 or schedule a free consultation at www.metierlaw.com.

Our thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives and with everyone still recovering from this tragedy.

‍

Disclaimer: Past results discussed should not be considered a guarantee of your results as the factors of every case are individually unique. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney from Metier Law Firm regarding your individual situation for legal advice.

‍

At least four people are dead and multiple others injured following a massive multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 25 near Pueblo this morning. Colorado State Patrol reports that as many as 30 vehicles were involved in the pileup, which occurred around 10:00 a.m. on the south end of Pueblo.

The crash has forced the closure of a three-mile stretch of I-25 in both directions. Early images from the scene show the devastating scale of the collision, with a pickup truck, a U-Haul, at least one semi-truck, and numerous passenger cars involved. Troopers on scene confirm additional injuries beyond the four fatalities, though exact numbers are not yet available.

High Winds May Have Played a Role

While investigators have not released an official cause, meteorologists report wind gusts reaching approximately 60 miles per hour in Pueblo at the time of the crash. With I-25 running north-south, these perpendicular crosswinds can create particularly dangerous conditions for high-profile vehicles like semi-trucks and commercial trailers.

We've seen firsthand how quickly weather conditions can turn deadly on Colorado highways. Strong crosswinds can push large trucks into adjacent lanes, reduce visibility during sudden dust storms, and make emergency braking nearly impossible when multiple vehicles are traveling at highway speeds.

What Happens Next

CDOT has not provided an estimated reopening time for the affected section of I-25. Officers are urging drivers to avoid the area entirely while crash reconstruction teams work the scene.

For families affected by this tragedy, the coming days will bring difficult questions about liability, insurance claims, and legal rights. In crashes involving commercial trucks, multiple parties may share responsibility, including trucking companies, truck drivers, maintenance providers, and even vehicle manufacturers.

Our hearts go out to all of the people involved in this terrible tragedy, and we wish law enforcement well in trying to determine all of the reasons why this crash happened.

If you or someone you love was involved in this crash or any serious truck accident, we're here to help. Call Metier Law Firm at 866-377-3800 or visit www.metierlaw.com to schedule a free consultation.

‍

TL;DR - Key Takeaways

●  Colorado law allows specific family members to pursue motorcycle wrongful death claims when a rider is killed due to someone else's negligence

●  For motorcycle accidents, families have two years from the date of death to file, or four years in vehicular homicide hit-and-run cases

●  Non-economic damages are capped at $2,125,000 under Colorado law effective January 2025

●  Surviving spouses, children, parents, and now siblings can file claims under certain circumstances

●  Colorado's comparative negligence rules mean families can still recover damages even if the rider was partially at fault, as long as they were less than 50% responsible

When a motorcyclist dies on Colorado roads, the aftermath hits families like a freight train. You're dealing with grief, funeral arrangements, and financial uncertainty all at once. Meanwhile, insurance companies are already building their defense.

Motorcyclists account for 15% of all traffic fatalities nationwide according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, despite representing only 3% of registered vehicles. Behind each statistic is someone's father, mother, son, daughter, or friend whose life ended too soon.

"Every motorcycle fatality represents a devastating loss that tears families apart and leaves them searching for justice. Our job is to hold negligent drivers accountable while helping families navigate one of the darkest chapters of their lives," says Patrick DiBenedetto, Partner at Metier Law Firm and an experienced motorcycle rider who has spent over two decades representing injured bikers and their families across Colorado.

If you've lost a family member in a fatal motorcycle accident, understanding your legal rights under Colorado law can help you seek accountability and secure your family's future.

What Is a Motorcycle Wrongful Death Claim in Colorado?

A wrongful death claim Colorado allows surviving family members to pursue compensation when someone dies due to another party's negligence. In motorcycle crashes, these claims typically arise from situations like distracted drivers failing to see riders, impaired motorists crossing center lines, dangerous road conditions officials ignored, or defective motorcycle parts that caused the crash.

Under Colorado law, if your loved one would have had grounds for a personal injury case had they survived, you now have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim Colorado on their behalf.

Who Can File a Motorcycle Wrongful Death Claim?

Colorado law got more specific about this starting January 1, 2025. According to Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-201, eligible parties include the deceased rider's spouse or designated beneficiary in the first year after death. If there's no spouse, the children or parents may file.

Here's where things changed recently. If there's no spouse, designated beneficiary, children, or parents, siblings or heirs of siblings can now pursue the claim in certain circumstances. This expansion recognizes that family structures vary, and justice shouldn't depend on traditional relationships alone.

These surviving family members can seek both economic damages and non-economic damages for their losses.

Types of Compensation in Motorcycle Wrongful Death Claims

We know that no settlement can replace the person you lost. But compensation serves two purposes: holding the negligent driver accountable and providing financial security for those left behind.

Economic Damages

These cover quantifiable financial losses like funeral and burial expenses, which often exceed $10,000 in Colorado. Medical bills from treatment before death can add up quickly, especially with emergency care and ICU stays. Lost income and employment benefits represent what your loved one would have earned to support the family. Loss of financial support to dependents accounts for the ongoing contributions they would have made.

Non-Economic Damages

These address the human toll that can't be measured in dollars. Loss of companionship and emotional support, loss of guidance and parental care for children, and the profound grief experienced by survivors all fall under this category.

Colorado law caps non-economic damages at $2,125,000 for motorcycle wrongful death claims filed on or after January 1, 2025 under HB24-1472. There's an exception: this cap doesn't apply in cases involving felonious killing.

Insurance companies routinely try to minimize these losses, particularly in cases involving riders. They'll argue the victim would have earned less or lived a shorter life. Having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who understands both the law and the riding community makes a difference.

If you've been hurt in a motorcycle crash and need answers, call us at 833-4MOTO-LAW (833-466-8652) or schedule a free consultation at www.metierlaw.com.

Colorado's Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Wrongful Death

Time limits matter in these cases. For motorcycle wrongful death claims in Colorado, the statute of limitations in Colorado is two years from the date of death under CRS § 13-80-102 This applies specifically to motor vehicle accidents.

However, if the death resulted from vehicular homicide combined with leaving the scene of the accident, the deadline extends to four years under CRS § 13-80-102.

Starting your case promptly is crucial because evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and insurance companies may destroy claim files if too much time passes. While two years seems generous when you're grieving, building a strong case takes time. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can preserve critical evidence and start working immediately.

Proving Negligence in a Fatal Motorcycle Crash

Your attorney must demonstrate four elements. First, the responsible party had a duty of care. Every driver has a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely. Second, they breached that duty through actions like texting while driving, running red lights, or failing to check blind spots before changing lanes.

Third, their breach directly caused the motorcycle fatality. This requires showing that but for their negligent conduct, your loved one would still be alive. Fourth, the death resulted in quantifiable damages to surviving family members.

Building a strong case requires comprehensive evidence including Colorado State Patrol accident reports, accident reconstruction analysis, expert testimony from crash investigators, witness statements, medical records, and toxicology reports. Time is critical because evidence can disappear faster than you'd think.

How Colorado's Comparative Negligence Law Affects Your Case

Colorado follows modified comparative negligence rules under CRS § 13-21-111. Even if your loved one bore some responsibility for the fatal motorcycle accident, you can still recover damages if they were less than 50% at fault.

Here's how it works. Any compensation awarded gets reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the deceased rider. For example, if total damages are $1 million but your loved one is found 20% at fault, the recovery would be $800,000. If they're found 50% or more at fault, you can't recover anything.

Insurance companies love to exaggerate the motorcyclist's role in these crashes. They'll claim excessive speed, failure to wear protective gear, or improper lane positioning. Having a motorcycle accident attorney who can counter these tactics with evidence and expert testimony is essential.

Why These Cases Require Specialized Legal Experience

Motorcycle wrongful death claims present distinct challenges. Anti-motorcycle bias influences how law enforcement investigates crashes, how insurance claims get handled, and how juries perceive cases.

Successful representation demands understanding of motorcycle mechanics, riding dynamics, and the unique vulnerabilities riders face on Colorado roads. It also requires advocates who respect the riding community and understand the culture.

At Metier Motorcycle Lawyers, we're riders ourselves. We get it because we live it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a motorcycle wrongful death claim in Colorado?

Colorado law provides two years from the date of death for motor vehicle wrongful death cases under the statute of limitations Colorado. If the death resulted from vehicular homicide where the driver fled the scene, you have four years. Missing these deadlines typically means losing your right to pursue compensation. Consult with a specialized motorcycle accident lawyer promptly.

What if my loved one was partially at fault for the crash?

Colorado follows comparative negligence Colorado rules. You can recover damages even if the deceased rider bore some responsibility. However, if they were 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover. If they were less than 50% at fault, your compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. A motorcycle accident attorney can help challenge inflated fault assignments.

How much is a motorcycle wrongful death claim worth in Colorado?

Every case is unique. Settlement amounts depend on the deceased's age, income, earning potential, number of dependents, circumstances of the motorcycle fatality, degree of negligence, and available insurance coverage. Non-economic damages are capped at $2,125,000 under current Colorado law. A qualified motorcycle accident attorney can assess your specific situation.

Who receives the money from a wrongful death settlement?

Colorado law specifies that proceeds go to surviving family members according to a hierarchy. The surviving spouse or designated beneficiary receives compensation first. If there's no spouse or beneficiary, proceeds go to the children. If no children exist, parents may receive compensation. In some cases, siblings can now file claims.

Will my case go to trial?

Many motorcycle wrongful death claims settle through negotiation without trial. However, being prepared for trial often strengthens your position in settlement discussions. If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation for your losses, taking the case to a jury may be necessary to achieve justice.

We Stand With Families Devastated by Loss

Losing a loved one in a fatal motorcycle accident creates a void that nothing can fill. While a wrongful death claim Colorado cannot bring back the person you've lost, it can provide financial stability for surviving family members and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

The path forward is deeply personal and painful. At Metier Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges families face after a motorcycle fatality. We're not just lawyers who handle these cases. We're riders who respect the community and fight relentlessly for families dealing with unimaginable loss.

Whether you're in Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, or anywhere across Colorado, if you've lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash caused by a negligent driver, we're ready to fight for you. Call Metier Motorcycle Lawyers at 833-4MOTO-LAW (833-466-8652) or schedule your free consultation today at www.metierlaw.com.

‍

Disclaimer: Past results discussed should not be considered a guarantee of your results as the factors of every case are individually unique. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney from Metier Law Firm regarding your individual situation for legal advice.

‍

Rev Up for 2026: Your Pacific Northwest Motorcycle Event Season Awaits!

TL;DR

• Washington Motorcycle Events in 2026 include major gatherings like the Spokane Motorcycle Show, Oyster Run in Anacortes, Hog Wild in Ocean Shores, and multiple Seattle-area rallies and charity rides.
• Riders can enjoy custom bike showcases, dealership-hosted shows, poker runs, ADV meetups, and scenic rides across the Cascades, Puget Sound, and Eastern Washington.
• Oregon Motorcycle Events feature top shows like The ONE Moto Show in Portland, Cherry City Classic in Salem, Maupin Madness, and regional rallies across the state.
• From spring kickoffs to fall coastal rides, the Pacific Northwest offers a full season of motorcycle events for cruiser, sport bike, ADV, touring, and vintage enthusiasts.

    Calling all riders across the Pacific Northwest! Whether you're cruising on a vintage chopper, carving corners on a sport bike, or touring on your trusty bagger, 2026 is packed with incredible motorcycle events from Spokane to the Oregon coast.

Pacific Northwest Spring Motorcycle Events:

• March 13-15 - Spokane Motorcycle Show (Spokane, WA)
• March 21 - Cascade Motorcycle Safety New Rider Day at MOHAI (Seattle, WA)
• March 21-22 - The Cherry City Classic (Salem, OR)
• April 11 - Eastside Harley Davidson Motorcycle Show (Bellevue, WA)
• May 1-3 - The ONE Moto Show (Portland, OR)
• May 17 - Sky Valley Motorcycle Show (Monroe, WA)
• May 17 - The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (Seattle & Portland)

     From the early season kickoff at the Spokane Motorcycle Show in March to the massive Oyster Run gathering in Anacortes come fall, our region offers something for every rider. Experience world-class custom bike showcases like The ONE Moto Show in Portland, test your skills at beginner-friendly events like the Cascade Motorcycle Safety New Rider Day, or join thousands of fellow enthusiasts at legendary rallies like The Pac-West Motorcycle Show, Hog Wild in Ocean Shores and the Cherry City Classic in Salem.

Pacific Northwest Summer Motorcycle Events:

• June 11-14 - Maupin Madness (Maupin, OR)
• July 18-19 - The Pac-West Motorcycle Show (Independence, OR )
• July 24-26 - Hog Wild Ocean Shores (Ocean Shores, WA)
• Aug 1 - Rally in the Valley (Tacoma, WA)
• Aug 15 - Hot Pipes (Bend, OR)
• Aug 15 - Riders Remembered Memorial Ride (Concrete, WA)
• Aug 29 - Northwest Motorcycle Show and FXR Rally (Enumclaw, WA)

    The PNW riding community is more than just events on a calendar, it's about the people, the rides, and the camaraderie we share on two wheels. Whether you're into vintage customs, modern performance machines, or just love being around bikes and good people, you'll find your tribe at these gatherings.

2026 Pacific Northwest Fall Motorcycle Events:

• Sep 27 - Oyster Run (Anacortes, WA)
• Oct 10 - Thee Invitational (Lacey, WA)

Stay Connected: This list is just the beginning! Your local motorcycle dealers, riding clubs, and chapters are constantly organizing rides, charity events, swap meets, and impromptu gatherings throughout the year. Follow your favorite dealerships on social media, connect with local ABATE chapters, H.O.G. groups, and riding clubs to stay in the loop on rides and events happening in your area.

     The best rides aren't always the ones on the calendar. Sometimes they're the   spontaneous Sunday morning coffee runs or the sunset cruise someone posts about on Thursday night.

See you on the road!

 FAQ: Washington and Oregon Motorcycle Events

What are the biggest Washington Motorcycle Events in 2026?

Major Washington Motorcycle Events in 2026 include regional bike shows in Spokane and Seattle, charity poker runs, dealership-hosted rallies, and large ADV gatherings across the Cascades. Riders can expect everything from custom motorcycle showcases to scenic backcountry rides throughout the Puget Sound and Eastern Washington regions.

What Oregon Motorcycle Events should riders attend in 2026?

Top Oregon Motorcycle Events in 2026 include premier motorcycle shows in Portland, regional coastal rallies, and organized adventure rides through scenic mountain and desert terrain. Whether you ride sport bikes, cruisers, or ADV machines, Oregon offers community-driven events throughout spring, summer, and fall.

When is motorcycle event season in Washington and Oregon?

The Washington and Oregon motorcycle event season typically begins in early spring and runs through late fall. Most large rallies, bike shows, and organized rides take place between April and September, when mountain passes and coastal highways offer ideal riding conditions.

‍

‍

Calling all riders across Colorado and Wyoming! Whether you're cruising on a vintage chopper, carving corners on a sport bike, or touring on your trusty bagger, 2026 is packed with incredible motorcycle events from the Front Range to the mountain passes.

TL;DR

• Colorado Motorcycle Events in 2026 span spring through winter, featuring major shows, rallies, poker runs, and Supercross races across the state.
• Top highlights include the Colorado Super Show & Swap Meet, AMA Supercross in Denver, IMRG Durango Rendezvous, and the Salute to American Veterans Rally.
• Wyoming Motorcycle Events include statewide rides like Tour de Wyoming and the Wyoming State CMA Rally in Lander.
• Riders of all styles — vintage, sport, touring, ADV, and custom — will find community, racing action, and scenic mountain rides throughout the year.

‍

COLORADO SPRING MOTORCYCLE EVENTS:

March 21-22 - Colorado Super show and Swap Meet (Colorado Springs, CO)

May 2 - AMA Supercross (Denver, CO)

From the early season kickoff at the Colorado Supers how and Swap Meet in Colorado Springs in March to legendary fall gatherings, our region offers something for every rider. Experience world-class racing action at AMA Supercross in Denver, test your skills at scenic mountain rallies like the IMRG Durango Rendezvous, or join thousands of fellow enthusiasts at events like the Salute to American Veterans Rally in Cripple Creek and the Realities Ride & Rally in Loveland.

COLORADO SUMMER SUMMER MOTORCYCLE EVENTS:

June 8-14 - IMRG Durango Rendezvous (Durango, CO)

June 27 – High Country Hell Run

June 20 - Pikes Peak Supercross (Colorado Springs, CO)

July 12-17 – Tour de Wyoming (Statewide)

July 18 – The Colorado Clambake(Lakewood, Co)

July 30-Aug 2 – Wyoming State CMA Rally (Lander, WY)

Aug 21-22 - Salute to American Veterans Rally (Cripple Creek, CO)

Late August - Realities Ride & Rally (Loveland, CO)

The Colorado and Wyoming riding community is more than just events on a calendar. It's about the people, the rides, and the camaraderie we share on two wheels. Whether you're into vintage customs, modern performance machines, or just love being around bikes and good people, you'll find your tribe at these gatherings.

COLORADO FALL MOTORCYCLE EVENTS:

Sep 19 - CVMA Poker Run (Thunder Mountain Harley-Davidson, CO)

Dec 6 - Children's Hospital Toy Run (Aurora, CO)

TBD 2026:

• Douglas County Supercross (Colorado)
• Pueblo Supercross (Colorado)
• Sun Harley-Davidson Toy Run (Colorado)

Stay Connected: This list is just the beginning! Your local motorcycle dealers, riding clubs, and chapters are constantly organizing rides, charity events, swap meets, and impromptu gatherings throughout the year. Follow your favorite dealerships on social media, connect with local ABATE chapters, H.O.G. groups, and riding clubs to stay in the loop on rides and events happening in your area.

The best rides aren't always the ones on the calendar. Sometimes they're the spontaneous Sunday morning coffee runs or the sunset cruise someone posts about on Thursday night.

See you on the road!

‍

FAQ: Colorado and Wyoming Motorcycle Events.

‍
What are the biggest Colorado Motorcycle Events in 2026?

Some of the largest Colorado Motorcycle Events in 2026 include the Colorado Super Show & Swap Meet in Colorado Springs, AMA Supercross in Denver, IMRG Durango Rendezvous, Pikes Peak Supercross, and the Salute to American Veterans Rally in Cripple Creek. These events feature everything from professional racing and custom bike shows to scenic group rides and charity rallies.

What Wyoming Motorcycle Events are happening in 2026?

Top Wyoming Motorcycle Events in 2026 include Tour de Wyoming, a statewide multi-day ride, and the Wyoming State CMA Rally in Lander. Riders can expect scenic mountain routes, strong riding community participation, and a mix of touring, adventure, and rally-style gatherings throughout the summer.

When does the Colorado and Wyoming motorcycle event season start?

The 2026 Colorado and Wyoming motorcycle event season kicks off in March with the Colorado Super Show & Swap Meet and continues through fall and winter charity rides. Most major rallies and races take place between May and September, when mountain passes and scenic highways are fully accessible.

‍

‍

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

• Truck accident cases are not like typical car vs. car accidents, since ruck crash cases involve complex federal regulations (FMCSA Parts 391, 392, 396) and could have multiple defendants including motor carriers, shippers, maintenance providers, and manufacturers
• Truck accident lawyers send spoliation letters as quickly as possible to preserve critical evidence like black box data, Electronic Logging Device records, and maintenance files before trucking companies destroy them
• NBTA Board Certification and CDL credentials separate elite truck accident attorneys from general personal injury lawyers who handle these cases like car accidents
• Commercial trucking insurance policies range from $750,000 to $5+ million, requiring specialized knowledge to identify all available coverage
• The best truck accident lawyers work with reconstruction experts, medical specialists, and industry insiders to prove liability and maximize compensation

‍

‍

When an 80,000-pound commercial truck crashes into a passenger vehicle, the results are catastrophic. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, over 5,375 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes in 2023, with over 160,000 injuries. What makes these numbers even more sobering is that 82% of fatalities involve people who were not in the truck. If you were hurt in a collision with a semi-truck, big rig, or tractor-trailer, you need to understand what a truck accident lawyer actually does beyond what you see in advertisements.

Most personal injury firms handle truck crashes the same way they handle fender benders, but Metier Law Firm takes a different approach. Across Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Wyoming, and Nebraska, the firm focuses specifically on commercial truck accident cases, bringing credentials that most attorneys simply don't have. Founding partner Tom Metier holds NBTA Board Certification in Truck Accident Law, the first and only American Bar Association-accredited board certification specific to truck crashes. This credential requires attorneys to dedicate at least 30% of their practice to trucking litigation and pass a comprehensive written exam. Managing Partner Mike Chaloupka brings another rare qualification to the table: a Class A Commercial Driver's License. "I've actually driven the same rigs involved in these crashes," Chaloupka explains. "I understand federal trucking regulations from both sides of the windshield, which gives our clients an advantage when trucking companies try to hide behind technical excuses."

Sending Spoliation Letters Is Step One

The first thing a truck accident lawyer does after taking a case is send spoliation letters to every party involved in the crash. This legal notice demands that the trucking company, motor carrier, maintenance provider, and any other potentially liable parties immediately preserve all evidence related to the accident. Spoliation letters must go out within days of the crash because critical evidence disappears fast.

Trucking companies know that black box data, Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records, maintenance logs, driver qualification files, dispatch communications, and inspection reports can prove negligence. Without a spoliation letter on file, companies can legally destroy these records after short retention periods. Once a formal preservation demand is served, destroying evidence becomes spoliation, which courts take seriously.

Spoliation letters also identify specific categories of evidence that must be preserved. For commercial truck accidents, this includes the truck's Electronic Control Module (ECM) data, which records speed, braking, engine performance, and hours of service information. ELD records show whether the driver violated federal hours of service regulations before the crash. Maintenance records reveal whether the trucking company skipped required inspections or ignored known mechanical issues. Driver qualification files show whether the company properly vetted and trained the driver.

In Washington State, where mountain passes like Snoqualmie and Stevens create hazardous conditions, spoliation letters preserve evidence about brake inspections and chain requirements. In Colorado, where I-70 through the Rockies and I-25 see heavy commercial traffic, these letters lock down data about pre-trip inspections and weight compliance. This evidence becomes the foundation of every strong truck accident case.

Investigating Like Trucking Industry Insiders

After spoliation letters are sent, the best truck accident lawyers immediately secure the physical evidence before it's altered or destroyed. The truck's Electronic Control Module often called the black box, is downloaded to preserve data that can prove speed, sudden braking, or mechanical failures. This device records information that drivers and companies can't dispute.

Electronic Logging Device records track a driver's hours behind the wheel. The FMCSA mandates strict hours of service regulations that limit driving time to prevent fatigue. When companies pressure drivers to ignore these rules, the ELD tells the real story. Metier Law Firm has used ELD data in Oregon and Wyoming cases to prove drivers were hours beyond legal limits when crashes occurred.

Truck accident lawyers in Colorado, Washington, and other western states also examine driver qualification files, pre-employment drug testing records, and training documentation. Federal regulations require specific qualifications before someone can operate a commercial motor vehicle, and shortcuts in hiring or training often lead to preventable crashes.

Speaking the Language of Federal Trucking Regulations

What does a truck accident lawyer do that a general personal injury attorney can't? Specialized attorneys know the difference between Part 391 (driver qualifications), Part 392 (driving rules), and Part 396 (inspection and maintenance requirements) of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. These aren't abstract legal concepts. When reviewing a trucking company's maintenance records or driver qualification files, attorneys with CDL experience know exactly what should be there.

Metier Law Firm's team includes attorneys who are members of the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys (ATAA), and both Tom Metier and Mike Chaloupka frequently teach other lawyers across the country how to handle these complex cases. They're not learning on client cases. They're the ones training other attorneys on what to look for when investigating commercial truck accidents.

If you or a loved one was injured in a crash with a commercial truck, call us at 866-377-3800 or schedule a free consultation at www.metierlaw.com.

Building Cases Against Multiple Defendants

Suing a trucking company is rarely as simple as filing a claim against one driver. The best truck accident lawyers understand the web of liability in the trucking industry. Investigations target the motor carrier, the shipper, the cargo loading company, the leasing company, the maintenance provider, and even the truck manufacturer. In an 18 wheeler accident law firm like Metier, attorneys handle cases where the driver was an independent contractor, but the trucking company still bore responsibility for inadequate training or pushing unrealistic delivery schedules.

The firm has secured multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements by proving systemic failures. Case results include an $11 million verdict for a spinal injury from a truck accident, a $10 million settlement for another spinal injury case, and a $7 million settlement when attorneys demonstrated a trucking company's pattern of safety violations. These outcomes happen because surface-level explanations aren't accepted.

Working with Specialized Experts

Truck accident lawyers in Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Wyoming, and Nebraska need access to experts who understand the unique challenges of western terrain and weather. Metier Law Firm works with accident reconstruction specialists who analyze skid marks, impact angles, and vehicle dynamics specific to heavy commercial vehicles. When a truck jackknifes on black ice in Wyoming or loses its brakes descending from Colorado's mountain passes, engineers explain exactly what happened and why federal regulations or company policies could have prevented it.

The firm also partners with medical experts who understand the catastrophic injuries common in truck crashes: traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and severe orthopedic trauma. These aren't soft tissue claims. When an 80,000-pound vehicle collides with a 4,000-pound car, the physics are brutal. Medical experts quantify lifetime care needs, lost earning capacity, and permanent disability so insurance companies can't lowball settlements.

Navigating Complex Insurance Structures

Commercial trucking policies are nothing like auto insurance. Trucking companies carry policies ranging from $750,000 to $5 million or more, depending on cargo type and interstate operations. What does a truck accident lawyer do when facing these policies? Attorneys identify all available coverage, including the motor carrier's liability policy, cargo insurance, umbrella policies, and even the driver's personal coverage if applicable.

Insurance adjusters for trucking companies are professionals trained to minimize payouts. They have lawyers on speed dial the moment a crash occurs. By the time victims in Oregon or Nebraska realize they need legal help, the trucking company has already deployed a team to control the narrative. Specialized truck accident lawyers level that playing field immediately.

Understanding State-Specific Challenges

Truck accident lawyers in Washington know that the state's unique regulations around chain requirements and mountain pass restrictions create specific liability issues. In Colorado, attorneys understand how the state's Modified Comparative Negligence rule affects settlements when trucking companies try to shift blame. Oregon's tort laws, Wyoming's sparse highway patrol coverage, and Nebraska's agricultural transport regulations all create nuances that generic personal injury lawyers miss.

When searching for the best truck accident lawyers, credentials matter. NBTA Board Certification isn't something attorneys can buy or claim without proof. The National Board of Trial Advocacy requires documented experience, peer review, and passing a rigorous exam. Only a small percentage of attorneys nationwide hold this credential in truck accident law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a truck accident lawyer and a regular personal injury lawyer?

A specialized truck accident lawyer understands federal trucking regulations, commercial vehicle mechanics, and the complex liability structures of the trucking industry. These attorneys know how to retrieve black box data, interpret Electronic Logging Device records, investigate motor carrier safety histories, and send spoliation letters to preserve critical evidence. General personal injury lawyers handle truck cases the same way they handle car accidents, missing critical evidence and regulatory violations.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim?

The statute of limitations varies by state where your accident occurred. Colorado and Washington allow three years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Oregon requires filing within two years. Wyoming provides four years. Nebraska also provides four years for personal injury cases, but only two years for wrongful death claims. However, these deadlines don't mean you should wait. Critical evidence disappears quickly after a truck crash. Trucking companies can destroy maintenance records, ECM data gets overwritten, and witnesses' memories fade. Contact a truck accident lawyer immediately to preserve evidence through spoliation letters, regardless of which state your accident occurred in.

Can I sue a trucking company if the driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Federal regulations establish when trucking companies can be held liable even if the driver is technically an independent contractor. Attorneys examine dispatch records, equipment ownership, and the degree of control the company exercised over the driver. Many companies try to hide behind independent contractor agreements, but an 18 wheeler accident law firm with experience in these cases knows how to pierce that shield.

What compensation can I recover after a commercial truck accident?

Victims can seek economic damages including medical expenses, lost wages, future care costs, and property damage. Non-economic damages for pain and suffering, loss of quality of life, and emotional trauma are also recoverable. In cases involving gross negligence like hours of service violations or drunk driving, punitive damages may apply. Metier Law Firm's past truck accident settlements and verdicts have ranged from $3 million to over $11 million.

How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?

Metier Law Firm works on a contingency fee basis. Clients pay nothing upfront, and the firm only collects fees if it wins the case through settlement or verdict. This allows victims to access the same level of legal representation that trucking companies use without financial risk.

Why CDL Experience and Board Certification Matter

There's a reason Tom Metier earned NBTA Board Certification and Mike Chaloupka maintains his Commercial Driver's License. These attorneys don't just study truck accidents in law books. They understand them from the inside. When a trucking company claims a driver couldn't have avoided a crash, Chaloupka knows whether that's true based on sight distance, stopping distance, and the performance capabilities of that specific vehicle configuration.

When defense attorneys try to confuse juries with technical jargon about glad hand connections, air brake systems, or tandem axle weight distribution, Metier Law Firm's attorneys can explain these systems in plain English because they've worked with them firsthand. This expertise has helped the firm secure life-changing results for clients across its five-state service area.

The trucking industry is massive, profitable, and well-defended. Victims need truck accident lawyers who are equally equipped. Whether in Denver, Seattle, Portland, Cheyenne, or Omaha, Metier Law Firm has the specialized knowledge and resources to take on commercial motor carriers and their insurers.

Call Metier Law Firm at 866-377-3800 or schedule your free consultation today at www.metierlaw.com.

‍

Disclaimer: Past results discussed should not be considered a guarantee of your results as the factors of every case are individually unique. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney from Metier Law Firm regarding your individual situation for legal advice.

‍