No matter how carefully you drive in Florissant, Missouri, an accident with a large truck can happen in the blink of an eye. When an 18-wheeler is involved in a crash, the results are often catastrophic, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities.
The sheer size and weight of these vehicles make any collision far more dangerous, especially for those in smaller passenger cars. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a semi-truck, it’s crucial to seek help from an experienced Florissant 18-wheeler accident lawyer who can guide you through the complexities of your case.
Imagine that after meeting friends for dinner at Mattingly’s Sports Bar & Grill, you’re driving along Hwy 67 when an 18-wheeler’s tire blows out due to excessive cargo, causing a serious accident.
Or perhaps you are visiting Florissant and are on your way to the Taille de Noyer House and you are hit by an 18-wheeler on I-270 whose driver fell asleep at the wheel.
While these are hypothetical situations, in both instances, the expertise of an experienced 18-wheeler accident attorney in Florissant, Missouri, could make a world of difference in securing the compensation you need for your recovery.
Accidents like these often involve multiple contributing factors, making them complex cases to navigate. Trucking companies and their drivers are subject to strict regulations designed to keep roads safe, but these rules are sometimes ignored in favor of profit, putting everyone at risk.
Why Are There So Many Trucks and 18-Wheelers in Florissant, Missouri?
Missouri’s central location within the U.S. makes it a vital hub for trucking, with major cities like St. Louis serving as key transit points for goods being transported across the country.
Florissant, positioned near highways such as I-270 and Hwy 67, sees a significant amount of 18-wheeler traffic as products like agricultural goods, machinery, and manufacturing materials are hauled through the region.
Florissant is also not far from the Port of Metropolitan St. Louis, which plays a crucial role in the shipment of goods, providing an essential link between railways and roadways, and contributing to the high volume of truck traffic throughout the region.
Its importance as a transportation hub further explains the presence of so many 18-wheelers on Missouri’s roads.
Given the increased risk of accidents due to the heavy truck traffic, it’s important to consult with an experienced Florissant 18-wheeler accident lawyer if you or someone you know has been involved in a crash.
How Often Do 18-Wheeler Accidents Happen in Florissant, Missouri?
Accidents involving 18-wheelers are a growing concern in Missouri, including in Florissant. Large commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) play a critical role in transporting goods, but their size and weight make accidents involving them particularly dangerous.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), fatalities in CMV-involved accidents have been on the decline in recent years. Between 2019 and 2023, Missouri saw a decrease in fatal CMV accidents, with the fatality rate dropping from 1.27 to 1.13 per 100 million CMV vehicle miles traveled.
In 2023 alone, there were 25 fewer fatalities involving CMVs compared to 2022, which is a significant improvement, but the number of accidents remains a pressing issue.
Data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) shows the widespread nature of these accidents. In 2023, there were 5,427 total crashes involving CMVs in Missouri, with 135 of them being fatal. These crashes resulted in 125 fatalities and over 2,100 injuries. Such staggering numbers highlight the significant risk that 18-wheelers pose on Missouri’s roads.
For anyone involved in such an accident, the importance of contacting a skilled Florissant 18-wheeler accident attorney from Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers cannot be overstated. An attorney can help victims navigate the legal process, which often involves multiple parties and complex liability issues.
What Are Some Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Florissant, Missouri?
Accidents involving 18-wheelers can occur in various ways, each presenting unique dangers and challenges. Understanding these types of accidents is crucial when seeking compensation for injuries or damages.
Some of the common types of 18-wheeler accidents include:
- Jackknife Accidents: A jackknife accident occurs when an 18-wheeler’s trailer swings out, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab, often caused by sudden braking or loss of traction. In Missouri alone, there were 161 jackknife crashes in 2021. These incidents can lead to devastating multi-vehicle accidents and significant roadway disruptions.
- Truck Rollovers: When a driver loses control of the vehicle, particularly during sharp turns or at high speeds, a rollover can occur. These accidents are especially hazardous on busy roads, such as I-270, where multiple cars may be involved.
- Tire Blowouts: Poor truck maintenance or overloading can lead to tire blowouts. When a tire bursts, it can cause the driver to lose control, putting nearby vehicles at significant risk. These accidents can result in severe injuries and extensive property damage.
- Wide Turn Collisions: Large trucks require more space to make turns. In a wide turn, when the truck swings left to make a right turn, it can trap other vehicles or pedestrians if the driver is unaware of their surroundings.
- Blind Spot Crashes: Due to the sheer size of 18-wheelers, they have large blind spots known as “No Man’s Land.” When a truck driver fails to see a vehicle in these blind spots while changing lanes, it can lead to serious accidents.
- Rear-End Collisions: The weight and size of an 18-wheeler make stopping quickly difficult. If a truck driver is following too closely or not paying attention, a rear-end collision can result in catastrophic injuries for those in smaller vehicles.
- Underride Accidents: One of the deadliest types of 18-wheeler accidents, an underride occurs when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the truck’s trailer, often resulting in fatalities. These accidents highlight the need for improved safety features on large trucks.
Accidents like these are often life-altering, and determining fault can be complex. If you’ve experienced any of these accidents, reaching out to a skilled and experienced Florissant 18-wheeler accident lawyer is crucial.
What is Causing All These 18-Wheeler Accidents in Florissant, Missouri?
Understanding the causes of 18-wheeler accidents is crucial for preventing them and ensuring safety on the roads. In Florissant, Missouri, several factors contribute to the high number of truck-related incidents.
Driver-Related Causes
Driver behavior plays a significant role in many 18-wheeler accidents. Here are some key issues:
- Fatigue and Drowsy Driving: Truck drivers often face immense pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines, leading to extended hours on the road with insufficient rest. This can result in dangerous levels of fatigue, making it difficult for drivers to remain alert and responsive.
- Impaired and Intoxicated Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious concern. Truck drivers must adhere to stricter BAC limits compared to regular drivers.
- Reckless Driving: Behaviors such as speeding, aggressive maneuvers, and ignoring traffic signals can increase the risk of accidents. Reckless driving can lead to severe injuries and damages, which an attorney can help address.
- Distracted Driving: Distractions, whether from texting, talking on the phone, or even using in-cab devices, can impair a truck driver’s ability to operate safely. This issue is compounded by the large size of trucks, making the consequences of distracted driving particularly severe.
Vehicle Maintenance Issues
Proper maintenance is essential for safe trucking operations. Neglect in this area can lead to:
- Mechanical Failures: Issues such as tire blowouts or brake malfunctions often result from inadequate maintenance. These failures can lead to catastrophic accidents. If a poorly maintained truck causes an accident, our legal team can help you hold responsible parties accountable.
- Improper Cargo Loading: When cargo is not secured properly, it can shift or fall out, creating hazardous conditions on the road.
Road and Weather Conditions
Missouri’s diverse road and weather conditions also contribute to truck accidents:
- Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, construction zones, and confusing traffic signals can increase accident risks. According to recent statistics, in Missouri, there were 1,008 crashes due to road conditions and 5,221 crashes due to poor lighting conditions.
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather can significantly impact driving safety. Missouri saw a substantial number of accidents related to various weather conditions, including:
- Clear: 103,717 accidents
- Rain: 22,513 accidents
- Snow: 17,378 accidents
- Fog or Mist: 4,695 accidents
- Ice/Frost: 4,811 accidents
In summary, these accidents can result from a range of driver-related issues, vehicle maintenance problems, and challenging road and weather conditions.
If you or a loved one is affected by a truck accident, seeking the expertise of a Florissant personal injury lawyer can provide crucial support in navigating these complex situations.
Are There Regulations For 18-Wheelers in Florissant, Missouri?
When it comes to truck accidents, navigating the complex web of regulations is crucial. Understanding both federal and state regulations is essential for anyone involved in these often devastating incidents.
At the federal level, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces strict rules designed to ensure the safety of commercial trucking operations.
These guidelines cover critical aspects such as limiting the number of driving hours to prevent fatigue, mandating rigorous training for drivers, and enforcing zero-tolerance policies for drugs and alcohol. The FMCSA regulations are aimed at minimizing risks associated with the enormous size and weight of these vehicles.
In addition to federal oversight, Missouri has its own set of regulations tailored to maintain road safety. These include specific vehicle safety inspections, driver qualification standards, and operational protocols designed to prevent accidents.
Non-compliance with these rules can make drivers and trucking companies liable for accidents.
Missouri also has specific rules and regulations to further ensure road safety. Key sections of the Missouri Trucking Guide include:
- Vehicle Safety Requirements: This section details how commercial motor vehicles are defined and the standards they must meet for both interstate and intrastate commerce. It also covers vehicle markings and identification requirements.
- Inspection and Maintenance: Comprehensive guidelines for maintaining and inspecting commercial vehicles are outlined here, including requirements for record-keeping and periodic inspections. See page 9 for more details.
- Driver Safety Requirements: This section focuses on the qualifications and documentation required for commercial drivers to ensure they are fit for their roles. For specifics, refer to page 11 of the guide.
Understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial for navigating legal complexities in truck accident cases.
As experienced Florissant 18-wheeler accident lawyers, being well-versed in both federal and Missouri regulations can significantly impact the outcome of your case and ensure that justice is served for those affected by truck accidents.
How is Liability Determined in an 18-Wheeler Accident in St. Louis, Missouri?
Liability in an 18-wheeler accident often involves multiple parties, some of whom may include:
- The Truck Driver: Negligence like speeding or distracted driving.
- The Trucking Company: Failing to maintain vehicles or enforce safety regulations.
- Manufacturers: Defective parts, such as brakes or tires.
- Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded cargo causing instability.
- Maintenance Providers: Negligent inspections or repairs.
A skilled legal representative will review key evidence, including maintenance records and driver logs, to build a strong case.
How is Fault Percentage Calculated in Missouri Truck Accidents?
In Missouri, fault percentage is determined through an investigation of the accident. This process may involve:
- Accident Investigation: Gathering evidence like police reports and witness statements.
- Contributory Negligence: If your actions contributed to the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Apportioning Liability: Each party’s fault percentage is assigned, and the damages are divided accordingly.
- Impact on Damages: The fault percentage directly affects the compensation you may receive. For example, if the truck driver is 70% at fault, they are responsible for 70% of the damages.
The process of determining fault can be complex. Working with an attorney ensures that your liability is minimized and all parties are held accountable.
Missouri Comparative Negligence Rule
Missouri uses a pure comparative fault system, meaning that even if you share some responsibility for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your fault percentage. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, your damages are reduced by 20%.
What Important Evidence Will Help My 18-Wheeler Claim in Florissant, Missouri?
Building a strong claim after an 18-wheeler accident in Florissant requires gathering key pieces of evidence. Each type of evidence plays a crucial role in determining liability and the severity of the accident. Below are some of the most vital types of evidence in Missouri truck accident claims:
1. Black Box Data (EDRs)
Most commercial trucks are equipped with Electronic Data Recorders (EDRs), often referred to as “black boxes.” These devices capture essential data such as the truck’s speed, braking patterns, and engine diagnostics before and during the accident. This information can be instrumental in proving whether the truck driver was speeding or failed to brake in time.
Accessing this data ensures that the full picture of the crash is understood, making it a critical piece of evidence.
2. Driver Logs
Truck drivers must comply with federal regulations that require them to document their hours of service. These logs help track whether the driver followed the legal limits on driving time or violated regulations, potentially leading to fatigue—a common cause of 18-wheeler accidents.
3. Maintenance Records
Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles in safe working condition. Poor maintenance, such as neglecting brake repairs or failing to replace worn tires, can lead to catastrophic accidents. Maintenance records can reveal whether the truck involved in your accident had any unresolved mechanical issues or skipped inspections.
A skilled attorney will use this evidence to argue that the company or driver neglected their duty to maintain the vehicle.
4. Photographs and Videos
Images and videos of the accident scene provide visual evidence that can strengthen your claim. These visuals can document road conditions, vehicle damage, skid marks, and any hazards that may have contributed to the crash. It’s important to capture these details from multiple angles to create a comprehensive view of the accident for investigators and your legal team.
5. Eyewitness Statements
Testimonies from witnesses who saw the accident unfold can provide valuable insights into what happened. Eyewitness accounts can corroborate your version of events and offer additional details about how the accident occurred. Having statements from independent witnesses can be a powerful tool in establishing fault.
6. Police Report
The official police report from the Florissant Police Department is another critical piece of evidence. It includes details such as the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as statements from involved parties and witnesses.
It also notes the investigating officer’s observations, which may be used to support your claim. Your legal representative will ensure that this report is thoroughly examined for accuracy and used strategically in your case.
7. Medical Records
Documenting your injuries through medical records is essential for demonstrating the extent of the harm caused by the accident.
These records provide a clear link between the crash and the physical or emotional injuries you’ve sustained. Keeping detailed records of your treatments, surgeries, and recovery can help maximize your compensation.
How Much is My Florissant 18-Wheeler Accident Claim Worth?
Determining the value of your 18-wheeler accident claim in Florissant, Missouri depends on several factors. The severity of your injuries is often the most significant factor. Serious injuries, such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries, typically result in higher settlements due to ongoing medical treatment and the lasting impact on your quality of life.
In addition to medical expenses, compensation may include lost wages if you’re unable to work and future earnings if the injury diminishes your earning capacity.
Another key factor is the extent of property damage, which could include the repair or replacement of your vehicle. Liability also plays a major role—if multiple parties are involved, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, or the manufacturer of faulty truck parts, the settlement may increase accordingly.
In these cases, the negotiation skills of your skilled Florissant 18-wheeler accident lawyer are crucial in dealing with multiple insurance companies.
Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, are another component of your claim. These damages account for emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life, which are harder to quantify but are still factored into your settlement.
Your attorney will calculate these non-economic damages using methods like the multiplier or per diem method, both of which help to assign a monetary value to your pain and suffering.
Lastly, the willingness of the trucking company or insurance carrier to settle outside of court can influence the total amount of compensation. Companies with substantial insurance policies may prefer to avoid litigation by offering higher settlements early on.
Working with a knowledgeable law firm in Florissant, Missouri, ensures that every angle of your claim is explored and you receive the full amount you are entitled to.
Skilled Truck Accident Lawyers in Florissant, Missouri
At Beck & Beck Car Accident Attorneys, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and skilled legal representation for truck accident victims in Florissant, Missouri.
Our team understands the challenges you face after a devastating accident, and we are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. With a deep knowledge of Missouri trucking laws and a strong track record of successful cases, our priority is always your recovery and well-being. Trust us to fight for your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process.
Locations near Florissant which we serve include St. Louis, Wellston, University City, Maplewood, Clayton, Brentwood, Central West End, Richmond Heights, and more.
