Commercial Truck Accidents in Missouri

Commercial truck accidents are a serious concern on Missouri's highways and roads. These accidents often result in severe injuries, fatalities, and significant property damage due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. If you've been involved in a commercial truck accident in Missouri, it's crucial to understand the facts, laws, and your rights. This blog post will provide essential information about commercial truck accidents in Missouri and highlight the importance of seeking legal representation.

The Occurrence of Commercial Truck Accidents in Missouri

Commercial trucks, also known as semi-trucks, big rigs, or 18-wheelers, play a vital role in Missouri's economy. However, they also pose significant risks on the road. Despite making up only about 5% of vehicles on the road, commercial trucks were involved in a disproportionate number of serious crashes and fatalities in recent years. Here are some key statistics and facts about commercial truck accidents in Missouri:

• According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there were 15,005 total truck accidents in 2022. This represents a substantial number of accidents involving large trucks and other commercial vehicles.
• The toll of these accidents in 2022 was severe: 119 people lost their lives in commercial vehicle crashes and 2,756 people were injured.
• The most frequent types of commercial truck accidents in Missouri include:

-Rear-end collisions

-Jackknife accidents

-Rollover accidents

-Underride collisions

These statistics highlight the disproportionate impact of commercial truck accidents on road safety in Missouri. Understanding the causes and consequences of these accidents is crucial for both prevention and legal recourse.

Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents in Missouri

Several factors contribute to commercial truck accidents in Missouri. Some of the most frequent causes include:

1. Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to drowsiness and reduced reaction times.
2. Distracted driving: Use of mobile devices, eating, or other distractions can take a driver's attention off the road.
3. Speeding and aggressive driving: Pressure to meet delivery deadlines can lead to reckless behavior.
4. Poor vehicle maintenance: Neglecting to maintain brakes, tires, and other critical components can lead to mechanical failures.
5. Improper loading: Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can cause balance issues and increase the risk of accidents.
6. Weather conditions: Missouri's diverse weather patterns, including snow, ice, and heavy rain, can create hazardous driving conditions.
7. Inadequate training: Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers may not be equipped to handle the challenges of operating a large commercial vehicle.

Understanding these causes is essential for both preventing future accidents and determining liability in the event of a crash.

Missouri Commercial Vehicle Laws and Regulations

Missouri has specific laws and regulations governing commercial vehicles to ensure road safety. Some key aspects of Missouri commercial vehicle law include:

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) requirements: Operators of commercial vehicles must obtain and maintain a valid CDL.
• Hours of Service regulations: These rules limit the number of hours a commercial driver can operate their vehicle without rest.
• Vehicle weight and size restrictions: Missouri imposes limits on the weight and dimensions of commercial vehicles to protect road infrastructure and safety.
• Regular vehicle inspections: Commercial vehicles must undergo regular safety inspections to ensure they meet state and federal standards.
• Drug and alcohol testing: Commercial drivers are subject to strict drug and alcohol testing requirements.

Violations of these laws and regulations can be used as evidence of negligence in the event of an accident. In Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer we help victims understand how these laws apply to their specific case.

The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation

If you've been involved in a commercial truck accident in Missouri, seeking legal representation from Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer is crucial. Here's why:

1. Complex liability issues: Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and cargo loaders. Determining liability can be complex and requires thorough investigation.
2. Federal and state regulations: Commercial trucking is governed by both federal and state laws. An experienced attorney will understand how these regulations apply to your case.
3. Severe injuries and damages: Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents often result in catastrophic injuries and significant property damage. An attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.
4. Insurance company tactics: Trucking companies and their insurers often have teams of lawyers working to minimize their liability. Having your own legal representation levels the playing field.
5. Preservation of evidence: A skilled attorney will know how to obtain and preserve critical evidence, such as driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, and black box data.
6. Statute of limitations: In Missouri, there is a limited time frame to file a lawsuit after a truck accident. An attorney can ensure you meet all necessary deadlines.

Steps to Take After a Commercial Truck Accident in Missouri

If you're involved in a commercial truck accident in Missouri, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your potential legal case:

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don't think you're seriously injured.
2. Call the police and ensure an official accident report is filed.
3. Gather information from all parties involved, including names, contact details, and insurance information.
4. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
5. Obtain contact information from any witnesses.
6. Avoid making statements about fault or giving recorded statements to insurance companies.
7. Contact Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer law firm as soon as possible to discuss your case.

Compensation in Commercial Truck Accident Cases

Victims of commercial truck accidents in Missouri may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Rehabilitation costs
• Loss of consortium
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Commercial truck accidents in Missouri are complex and often devastating events. Understanding the facts, laws, and your rights is crucial if you or a loved one has been involved in such an accident. By seeking representation from Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Remember, the aftermath of a commercial truck accident can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. If you've been involved in a commercial truck accident in Missouri, don't hesitate to seek legal advice. We, as experienced lawyers, can guide you through the legal process, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and fight for your rights, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

At Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer we can help you understand the full extent of damages you may be entitled to and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.

Remember that knowledge and proper legal representation are your best defenses in the event of a commercial truck accident.