Missouri 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers

Get Legal Help After an 18-Wheeler Collision

When out on the state’s highways, the majority of drivers are typically extremely cautious when in the vicinity of an 18-wheeler truck – and for good reason. A slight slip in concentration could lead to a devastating collision, whether it’s a side swipe or a rear-ender. Even if a collision was to take place at a relatively low speed, significant injuries, such as broken bones and brain injuries, could take place if the impact was great enough.

Traffic accident statistics reveal that approximately 20 percent of truck accidents result in a fatality and it’s often forgotten that the serious injury rate is much higher.

Fortunately, in Missouri, when an individual is involved in a collision with an 18-Wheeler, s/he may file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver and his/her truck company. However, in order to file a fair claim for injuries it is necessary to hire a St. Louis trucking accident attorney who will gather together sufficient information to ensure a just claim is made.

To get started on your potential claim after a collision, contact Page Law for a free evaluation. Call (314) 322-8515 today.

What Causes an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident?

Big trucks, such as 18-wheelers, are rarely owner-operated. They are commonly a part of a large fleet of similar vehicles and, as with many businesses, there are always competitors and each company is always on the lookout at getting the lion’s share of the haulage market. This often leads to trucking companies not always following safe operation protocols, such as adhering to regular maintenance programs, hiring sufficiently trained drivers, and not checking on hours logged by their drivers.

Many 18-wheeler accidents are due to driver error, which has been listed as the most common cause of collisions. Truck drivers are often put under pressure to perform and push the truck to its limits. Drivers commonly drive when fatigued and are unable to concentrate. This is the most dangerous position for other road users, since when a driver loses control of the 18-wheeler and is involved in a collision, serious damage and devastating injuries could take place.

Full Attention is Necessary to Avoid a Serious Crash in Missouri

Driving an 18-wheeler requires far more concentration than a passenger vehicle. 18-wheelers typical carry a variety of different freight. Normally, this is for commercial reasons, which means tight delivery deadlines have to be met. This puts pressure on the driver to keep going while often tired and hungry. These are distractions in themselves, so truck drivers simply can’t afford any further distractions, such as texting or talking on their cell phone.

Both federal and state government has laws banning 18-wheeler drivers from talking and texting on their cell phones while behind the wheel of their trucks. This doesn’t necessarily stop them, particularly if they have to spend long stretches away from their families and are driving hour after hour alone in their cabs.

What are Federal Truck Regulations?

Truck companies have to follow federal regulations, which are strict, but competition from other companies drives them to adopt certain strategies, such as overloading the vehicle, pushing drivers to their limits and using cheap parts for repairs.

On rare occasions, road conditions can lead to an 18-wheeler accident. This may mean that the organization responsible for maintaining the stretch of road where the
collision took place could be held responsible for any accidents and subsequent injuries.

Truck drivers could lose their licenses and jobs and trucking companies risk losing their trading license if they flout the federal rules but this doesn’t seem to stop the negligent drivers and employers from taking risks just to chase that extra dollar.

If you have been a victim of an 18-wheeler crash, don’t think you have to pay your medical expenses on your own. It is your legal right in Missouri and many other states in the U.S. to file a personal injury claim against the person who caused your collision. In order to receive the best possible outcome for your claim, contact an experienced St. Louis 18-wheeler accident attorney. With Page Law’s on your side, you can be sure your rights are protected every step of the way.

Additional Information

• What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident
• How to Receive Compensation After an 18-Wheeler Accident