St. Louis Truck Accident Attorneys

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

When a truck accident occurs due to negligence, the party (or parties) responsible may be held liable for any resulting damages. Negligence, in legal terms, is the failure to exercise reasonable care to prevent harm to others. In the context of truck accidents, this means that if a truck driver, trucking company, or any other associated party fails to act responsibly and that failure leads to an accident, they can be held accountable for damages like medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.

Common forms of negligence that can lead to truck accidents include:

• Driver fatigue. Truck drivers often face long and demanding hours on the road, pushing the limits of their physical and mental endurance. Fatigue impairs a driver's ability to concentrate, slows reaction times, and reduces decision-making capabilities, greatly increasing the risk of an accident. Regulations are in place to limit driving hours, but tight delivery schedules or even direct pressure from their employers sometimes compel truck drivers to neglect these rules.
• Distracted driving. With the proliferation of smartphones and in-cab technologies, distracted driving has become a significant hazard. Distractions come in various forms, including texting, using a GPS, eating, or adjusting the radio. Any activity that diverts a driver's attention from the road can result in a loss of control over the vehicle.
• Impaired driving. Operating a truck under the influence of alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous and a clear form of negligence. Impairment impacts a driver's judgment, reflexes, and coordination, significantly increasing the likelihood of an accident. Even prescription medications that cause drowsiness or impair cognitive function can pose serious risks if drivers are not careful.
• Inadequate vehicle maintenance. Trucks require regular maintenance to remain safe on the road. Neglecting crucial upkeep tasks like brake inspections, tire replacements, and engine checks can lead to mechanical failures. A sudden malfunction can cause a driver to lose control of the truck, endangering not only the driver but also others on the road.
• Improperly loaded cargo. Properly loading and securing cargo is vital for the safe operation of a truck. Unbalanced or unsecured loads can shift during transit, leading to rollovers or making the truck difficult to control. This oversight is often due to inadequate training or carelessness.
• Speeding and reckless driving. Some truck drivers engage in speeding to meet tight deadlines, disregarding speed limits and road conditions. This reckless behavior diminishes the driver’s ability to control the vehicle, especially in poor weather or heavy traffic. 

Injuries Commonly Sustained in Truck Accidents

Due to the size disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles, injuries sustained in truck accidents are often severe, including:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
• Broken Bones and Fractures
• Internal Injuries
• Severe Burns and Lacerations
• Fatal Injuries

Victims may face long-term medical treatment, rehabilitation, and significant lifestyle changes.

Dangerous Roads and Intersections for Truck Accidents in St. Louis

Truck drivers pass through many areas in and around St. Louis. However, some roads and intersections are known hotspots for vehicular collisions. 

Some of the most dangerous roads and intersections in and around St. Louis include:

• Highway 36
• Interstate 70
• Interstate 64 and Grand Boulevard
• Missouri Route 100 and Old State Road

Determining Liability for a Truck Accident

Truck accident cases are notoriously complex due to the multitude of parties involved and the intricate factors contributing to each incident. Determining liability demands thorough and prompt investigations, as the responsible party is not always readily apparent. Multiple elements, such as vehicle maintenance, driver behavior, and cargo handling, can all influence liability. 

Our attorneys at Sedey Harper Westhoff can accurately identify all liable parties by promptly gathering and evaluating evidence, including eyewitness accounts, accident scene data, and vehicle inspection reports. We know what to look for when investigating and can help you hold the responsible parties accountable through personal injury litigation. 

Depending on the circumstances, one or more of the following parties could be liable for a truck accident:

• The truck driver. The truck driver may be held liable if reckless behavior, such as speeding, distracted driving, or operating under the influence, caused the accident. Drivers must adhere to strict regulations concerning hours of service, vehicle inspections, and safe operation of their vehicles.
• The trucking company. Companies that employ truck drivers may be liable for an accident if they engage in negligent hiring practices, fail to provide adequate training, or pressure drivers to exceed safe driving hours. They are also responsible for maintaining their fleet. 
• The truck manufacturer. If a defect in the truck's manufacturing contributed to an accident – for example, if faulty brakes or steering systems caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle – the manufacturer may be liable. 
• Cargo loaders. Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can lead to accidents, making the party responsible for loading liable. This includes instances where the cargo shifts, leading to a loss of vehicle control, or when overloading violates regulations, impacting the truck's handling.
• Maintenance contractors. Contractors tasked with the upkeep of the truck may be liable if their failure to properly maintain a vehicle leads to mechanical failures that cause an accident. 

Recoverable Damages in a Missouri Truck Accident Lawsuit

A successful truck accident claim allows you to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are the tangible financial losses you suffered due to the accident, while non-economic damages are meant to encompass the more intangible impacts of the crash.

Our St. Louis truck accident lawyers can fight to obtain full and fair compensation for all economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Emotional distress
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium

If the defendant’s conduct was especially outrageous, the court may decide to reward punitive damages, as well. Punitive damages are not specifically meant to compensate you but are instead designed to punish the defendant and discourage similar behavior in the future. Note that Missouri typically places limits on punitive damages. 

Why Choose Sedey Harper Westhoff for Your Truck Accident Case?

Truck accident cases are often more complex than standard car accident claims due to the number of parties involved and the federal regulations governing commercial trucking. Our experienced  St. Louis trucking attorneys:

• Understand Trucking Laws: We are well-versed in both Missouri traffic laws and federal regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• Investigate Thoroughly: Our team conducts comprehensive investigations to uncover negligence and liability.
• Handle Insurance Companies: We negotiate aggressively with insurers and trucking companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Fight for Maximum Compensation: From medical bills to lost wages and pain and suffering, we work tirelessly to recover the full value of your truck accident claim.

Contact St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyers at Sedey Harper Westhoff

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t face the legal battle alone. At Sedey Harper Westhoff, we are committed to standing up for victims and ensuring they receive fair compensation. Contact our St. Louis truck accident lawyers today for a free consultation. Let us fight for the justice and recovery you deserve.

Give us a call at (314) 819-0963 or contact us online to speak with a trucking lawyer near you.

Truck Accident FAQs

How are truck accident cases different from car accident claims?

Truck accident cases often involve multiple liable parties, federal regulations, and complex evidence, such as driver logs and vehicle maintenance records. Our team specializes in handling these intricate cases.

Can I sue the trucking company after an accident?

Yes, trucking companies can be held liable if the driver was negligent, improperly trained, or if the accident was caused by poor vehicle maintenance or overloading.

What is the statute of limitations for truck accidents in Missouri?

In Missouri, you generally have five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. For wrongful death cases, the limit is three years.

How much compensation can I expect for my truck accident claim?

The amount depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and the degree of negligence. Our attorneys work to maximize your recovery.

What if the truck driver denies fault?

We conduct thorough investigations, including reviewing traffic camera footage, driver logs, and witness statements, to establish fault and hold the responsible parties accountable.