Washington County, OR (February 27, 2025) – An accident early Thursday morning claimed the life of 62-year-old Daniel Pfeiffer of Newberg after his vehicle crashed into a semi-truck backing onto a road in Washington County.
Accident Details: According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred just before 4 a.m. on Bald Peak Road and Southwest Elsinore Lane. A westbound semi-truck was backing onto Elsinore Lane and Pfeiffer was driving east on Bald Peak Road. They collided. Pfeiffer was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities do not believe impairment was a factor in the crash. They ask anyone with information about the collision to contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: Crashes like this raise serious safety concerns and liability questions. Investigators will likely examine several critical factors, including:
- Truck Driver’s Maneuver & Roadway Safety. Semi-trucks require extra caution when backing up, especially onto active roads. Was the truck driver using spotters, hazard lights, or warning signals to alert other drivers? Investigators will also assess whether Pfeiffer and the truck driver had enough time to see each other and react safely.
- Trucking Regulations & Safety Procedures. Federal trucking regulations require specific protocols for backing maneuvers. Investigators should reconstruct the accident from surveillance, the truck’s electronic data recorder, and witness statements.
If the investigation reveals that another party was negligent, Pfeiffer’s family may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim.
I extend my deepest condolences to Daniel Pfeiffer’s family and loved ones. I hope they find the support they need.
Source: KATU 2 ABC