Truck accidents are typically much more serious than other motor vehicle collisions. This is because commercial trucks are heavier, larger, and capable of inflicting significantly more damage. If you were involved in a wreck with a semi-truck—whether you were driving your own car, walking across the street, or riding a motorbike—you could be entitled to financial compensation for any injuries you sustained.
Let our team of dedicated personal injury attorneys review your specific case to determine your available legal options. An experienced St. Louis truck accident lawyer at our firm is prepared to fight for your rights and hold the responsible party accountable for their reckless actions.
Common Causes of Truck Wrecks
Determining the reason a tractor-trailer crash occurred is critically important. Not only does it explain what happened, it is a key part of any legal claim against a negligent party. Semi-truck collisions are commonly caused by truck driver negligence while operating their cab, but several other factors could also contribute to an accident. Frequent causes of large commercial vehicle wrecks include:
- Intoxicated truck drivers
- Drivers who are working overly long hours
- Exhausted driving and falling asleep at the wheel
- Distracted driving through phones, videos, apps, and more
- Following too closely to others on the road
- Defective truck parts and equipment
- Violating traffic or safety laws
- Failing to check a truck’s blind spots
Any of these negligent actions, along with many others, may be the basis for a personal injury claim against a truck driver, company, or affiliated third-party. Recoverable damages may be available from those parties, their employers, and insurance companies.
When Accidents Are Caused by the Trucking Company
While drivers are often the direct cause of the accident, trucking companies may also bear responsibility. Companies are often held vicariously liable for the actions of their employees. The law permits an injured individual to seek compensation from the company that employs the driver as well as the driver themselves. This opens up the asset pool from which the injured person may collect their damages.
Trucking companies are often directly liable for the accident because of their negligent actions or omissions. This means that the lawsuit seeks payment directly from the company, rather than through the actions of the driver. These situations commonly include:
- Improperly loading the trailer of the truck
- Items that fall off of the trailer or flatbed
- Improper or defective maintenance of parts or trucks
- Improper training of drivers or staff
- Lack of supervision that leads to an accident
- Encouraging or requiring violations of Hours of Service rules by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
This kind of misconduct by a truck company can result in severe injuries and a hefty lawsuit against them. Though, large companies will fight hard to avoid paying out a claim, even when it is clear they are responsible for the accident. That is why having help from a seasoned St. Louis truck crash attorney could be critical.
Recoverable Damages in St. Louis Semi-Truck Collision Cases
A truck accident case may entitle an injured person to both economic and non-economic damages, which could include:
- Lost wages
- Loss of future income
- Medical expenses
- Property damages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish and emotional hardship
- Loss of enjoyment of life
While all these damages and many others may be recoverable, a comprehensive financial award is contingent on showing another party’s negligence directly caused the injury leading to such losses. A proactive and committed truck accident lawyer in St. Louis could help an injured person collect the evidence necessary to prove someone else’s fault and obtain fair compensation.
Reach Out to a St. Louis Truck Accident Attorney to Start Your Claim
You deserve quality and competent representation to help you with your legal claim. Truck companies will likely deny liability to see if they can save money or may even attempt to convince you to take a lower settlement offer. Do not be pressured into accepting less than you deserve.
A capable St. Louis truck accident lawyer is ready to assist you with your claim. Call now to get started.
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