St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer

Serious Representation For Serious Truck Accidents

Semitrucks, 18-wheelers and other types of commercial vehicles seem to fill the roadways in Missouri at any time of the day or night. The demands trucking companies place on drivers can create dangers on Missouri and Illinois roads. Drivers are often on the road trying to meet deadlines.

Truckloads may be unstable or oversized, which can cause or contribute to serious accidents. Innocent motorists, passengers in vehicles and others in the vicinity of a truck can suffer catastrophic injuries in an accident.

What Are The Most Common Types Of Truck Accidents In St. Louis?

St. Louis! Our beloved gateway city known for its Arch, blues, and baseball. Yet, intertwining with its vibrant life are the busy roads, and where there’s traffic, there’s a propensity for mishaps. Especially when it comes to those behemoths: trucks. Let’s shed some light on the most recurring types of truck accidents in the area:

1. Jackknife Accidents: Ever tried folding a paper in a hurry and ended up with a crease not quite where you intended? Well, imagine that, but with a massive truck. Jackknifing happens when the trailer skids, swinging out to form a sharp angle with the truck’s cab. It’s a chilling sight, often resulting from abrupt braking or slippery conditions.
2. Rollovers: Remember those nerve-wracking movie scenes where everything slows down as a truck tips over? That’s a rollover for you. Influenced by factors like speed, sharp turns, or sudden maneuvers, these are both dramatic and destructive.
3. Blind Spot Accidents: Think of the mammoth size of trucks and then imagine the shadows they cast – spots where they just can’t see. These are the truck’s blind spots, and they’re much larger than your average sedan’s. It’s no surprise, then, that smaller vehicles often get caught in these, leading to accidents.
4. Rear-end Collisions: Trucks can’t stop on a dime. Thanks to their sheer size and weight, their braking distance is much longer than that of smaller vehicles. Mix in a little distraction, and you’ve got a recipe for rear-end collisions.
5. Underride Accidents: Ever heard of these? They’re pretty harrowing. It’s when a smaller vehicle ends up sliding under the rear or side of a larger truck. Structural differences and braking disparities often play a part here.
6. Wide Turn Accidents: Ever watched a truck take a turn and thought, “That looks tricky”? It is! Trucks often need to swing wide to complete a turn, and in doing so, they might inadvertently trap or hit other vehicles.

Traversing the streets of St. Louis requires keen awareness, especially around large trucks. These common accident types aren’t just statistics; they’re reminders for all of us to exercise caution and share the road responsibly. And if you ever find yourself in such an unfortunate situation, always remember: St. Louis has professionals who can help navigate the aftermath.

What Are The Most Common Types Of Truck Accident Injuries?

Life in St. Louis unfolds like a story with its chapters of joy, community, and sometimes, unexpected twists. Among those unexpected turns are the echoes of truck accidents, and with them, a spectrum of injuries. It’s a gritty reality, but awareness can be our shield. Let’s dive deep into the most common injuries stemming from these incidents:

1. Whiplash: Imagine the abrupt shake of a Polaroid picture, but it’s your neck. Whiplash is a testament to how fragile the human body can be in the face of sudden force. It’s characterized by neck pain, stiffness, and sometimes even headaches. Often, it’s the aftermath of a rear-end collision, and though it might seem minor at first, its effects can linger.
2. Broken Bones: The sheer force exerted during a truck collision is enough to make our robust bones surrender. From simple fractures to complex breaks, bone injuries can range in severity and recovery time. And it’s not just about the pain; it’s the cascade of lifestyle changes that follow.
3. Cuts and Lacerations: We’re not talking about paper cuts here. Broken glass, twisted metal, or scattered debris from an accident can leave individuals with deep cuts. Besides the immediate physical pain, there’s the emotional trauma of scars that tell tales.
4. Concussions: Our brains, despite being safely tucked inside our skulls, are vulnerable. A sudden jolt, a fierce bump, and it can ricochet inside, leading to a concussion. Symptoms? Think dizziness, nausea, or even temporary memory loss. It’s a silent injury that demands utmost attention.
5. Spinal Injuries: The spine, our central pillar of support, isn’t immune to the wrath of a truck accident. From herniated discs to more severe spinal cord damage, the repercussions can be life-altering. Mobility issues, chronic pain, or even paralysis could be on the cards.
6. Internal Injuries: Not all wounds are visible. The force of a collision can cause internal organs to suffer or bleed. These hidden injuries can be insidious, manifesting hours or even days after the accident.
7. Burns: Rare, but not unheard of. In the unfortunate event of a fire or explosion post-collision, victims might sustain burns. Depending on the degree, recovery can be prolonged, coupled with the challenge of emotional healing.

For those facing the aftermath of a St. Louis Truck accident, remember St. Louis is home to medical and legal professionals who stand ready to assist.

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In St. Louis?

St. Louis, with its rich heritage and iconic landmarks, hums to the rhythm of modern life. But every metropolis has its challenges, and here, among the bustling streets and highways, truck accidents sometimes cast a shadow on our daily stories. Let’s pull back the curtain and delve into the root causes behind these unfortunate events:

1. Driver Fatigue: Imagine pushing through a marathon of your favorite series late into the night. Now, imagine doing that and then driving a mammoth truck. Sounds scary, right? Truckers often grapple with long hours, and when weariness sneaks in, the risk of an accident escalates. It’s the silent villain on the roads, claiming more victims than we realize.
2. Distracted Driving: It starts innocently. Maybe it’s a text ping, a quick glance at a billboard, or fiddling with the radio. But in that split second of diverted attention, lives can change forever. It’s the modern age’s curse, making even experienced drivers vulnerable.
3. Speeding: Remember the adrenaline rush of sledding down a hill as a kid? Now, scale that up to a truck barreling down the highway. The thrill might be intoxicating, but speeding trucks are like ticking time bombs, reducing reaction times and amplifying potential devastation.
4. Improper Cargo Loading: Picture trying to balance a stack of books in one hand. Wobbly, isn’t it? That’s the challenge trucks face when their cargo isn’t loaded right. It’s not just about weight, but how it’s distributed. A slight imbalance can make a truck unstable, particularly around bends.
5. Equipment Malfunction: Machines, as much as we rely on them, have their off days. Whether it’s brake failure, tire blowouts, or engine issues, equipment malfunctions can instantly turn a routine journey into a nightmare.
6. Impaired Driving: There’s a sinister side to our nightlife, where some choose to mix driving with alcohol or drugs. The consequences? A hazy judgment, slowed reflexes, and a trail of accidents.
7. Weather Conditions: St. Louis isn’t a stranger to moody weather. From slippery roads post-rain to fog curtaining the streets, trucks navigating these conditions face heightened risks. It’s nature’s wild card, unpredictable and often merciless.
8. Inadequate Training: Driving a truck isn’t child’s play. It requires specialized skills, and sometimes, drivers hit the road without adequate training. It’s like diving into deep waters without learning to swim, and the results can be tragic.

MO Truck Accident Compensation

Ah, the Show-Me State! Missouri, with its rolling hills, bustling cities like St. Louis, and tranquil countryside, is a tapestry of life’s diverse experiences. But woven into this fabric are the unfortunate incidents on the road involving trucks. When these happen, it’s natural to wonder about compensation. Let’s embark on a journey to understand the financial aspects that come into play:

1. Medical Expenses: It’s akin to that sinking feeling when the hospital bills start rolling in post-accident. From the initial ER visit to long-term rehabilitation, these costs can quickly escalate. The good news? Compensation often covers these, ensuring that injuries don’t leave a lasting dent in one’s finances.
2. Lost Wages: Imagine missing out on a concert because you’re under the weather. Now scale that to missing work because of an accident. The financial implications of lost wages can be daunting. But rest easy, as this aspect often finds its way into the compensation framework.
3. Property Damage: It’s not just about the dents and scratches; it’s about the memories tethered to your vehicle. Compensation aims to cover the repair or replacement costs, helping individuals get back on the road.
4. Pain and Suffering: The physical scars might heal, but emotional wounds can linger. Quantifying pain and suffering isn’t straightforward, yet it’s a crucial component. After all, the aftermath of an accident isn’t just skin deep.
5. Loss of Consortium: Families often bear the brunt of accidents. The dynamics change, roles shift, and relationships strain. When a loved one can’t provide the same companionship, care, or love due to their injuries, compensation seeks to address this poignant aspect.
6. Punitive Damages: Think of this as a lesson the universe imparts to wrongdoers. In cases where the responsible party’s actions were egregiously negligent or malicious, punitive damages serve as a financial penalty. It’s a way of saying, “That was way out of line!”
7. Future Earnings: Sometimes, the implications of an accident ripple into the future. If injuries impede one’s ability to work or pursue their career, compensation considers potential future earnings. It’s a nod to the dreams and aspirations that face roadblocks.

Deciphering compensation in Missouri isn’t a mere numbers game; it’s about understanding individual stories, hopes, and challenges. And while money can’t turn back time, it offers a semblance of justice and support.

A Skilled St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer And Legal Team Who Are Ready, Willing And Able To Serve You

When truck accidents occur, the trucking companies often launch a full-scale investigation to minimize their exposure. Trucking accidents are complex and require a sophisticated investigation and legal response. Our St. Louis truck accident lawyers have served Missouri for 60 years with integrity, respect and a focus on our clients. We have the resources, experience and dedication to results to take on the trucking industry and insurance companies.

Motorists, passengers in cars, as well as pedestrians and bystanders can suffer catastrophic injuries in a commercial vehicle, heavy equipment or truck accident. Trucking companies and the semitruck drivers have a duty to operate their trucks in a safe and responsible manner. Oversized loads, unsafe driving and negligent practices put innocent passengers and drivers like you in danger.

We team with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals and other experts who can present evidence to build a solid case to maximize compensation for trucking accident injuries.

We have the resources and experience in all types of truck and commercial vehicle crashes, including:

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents

At Wilbers Law Firm, we have been helping Missouri’s injured for more than 60 years. We will help you through each step of your truck accident case, making sure you understand both your rights and your options.

Below are answers to frequently asked questions about Missouri truck accidents. If you have other questions, call our St. Louis office at 314-667-4586 to schedule a free consultation, or contact us online.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim after a Missouri truck accident?

The statute of limitations (time you have to file) is typically five years from the date of the accident.

Who can I sue for damages if I was hit by a negligent truck driver?

This is a more complicated question because we must determine negligence and liability. So, the answer will depend on your specific circumstances. There are a few possibilities including the driver, if your injuries were a direct result of the driver’s negligence; the owner of the vehicle, if the vehicle was not adequately maintained; the owner of the freight; the driver’s employer if the driver was pushed to break laws to keep their job or schedule; or a third party.

Your case may also involve the driver and owner of another vehicle that may have caused the truck to react, resulting in the accident, or the manufacturer of the other vehicle if there was a defect that led to the collision or accident.

What types of damages can I pursue after a truck accident?

Again, what is pursued will depend on the details of the accident and your injuries. Typically, as with car accidents, we may pursue the costs of medical treatment and rehab, present and future damages, pain and suffering, and lost current and future income.

Why are truck accidents more complex than most Missouri car accident cases?

There are several reasons that injury claims from accidents with semis or commercial vehicles are extremely complicated:

1. The most significant reason is injuries are typically more severe (or even fatal) in a collision between a car and a truck. Commercial drivers and the companies that employ them must therefore carry larger amounts of insurance.
2. Commercial drivers must undergo more training and are held to different safety standards than other vehicle drivers.
3. Many facets of evidence will be reviewed in a truck accident, including time logs, the police report, the truck’s maintenance and parts, accident reconstruction, the “black box” (or electronic control module called an ECM) that keeps track of a drivers driving time, the driver’s actions, any drug or alcohol use, and how much sleep that driver had as well as evidence that pertains to your particular accident.

Can I still file a personal injury claim if I was partially at-fault for the truck accident?