Unfortunately, sharing the road with massive semi-trucks and 18-wheelers hauling heavy loads in St. Louis, Missouri, is inherently dangerous. After an accident or injury involving one of these gigantic vehicles, you need the guidance of a top rated St. Louis truck accident lawyer from Beck & Beck’s accident and injury law firm.
You can reach us 24/7 by calling our office near me at 314.207.9996. Our attorneys are 100% committed to helping victims of truck accident injuries in St. Louis recover, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, there were 137 fatalities involving commercial motor vehicles in 2023. Further data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reveals that in Missouri there there were 5230 truck crashes involving large trucks in 2023, and that they resulted in 2052 injuries and 122 fatalities.
Just to highlight how close to home these crashes are, recently on January 15th, 2025, a semi-truck driver took his eyes off the road for a moment to pick up his drink resulting in a truck crash on I-44 near Vandeventer Avenue in which a woman was killed.
These numbers clearly illustrate the dangers present to everyday drivers. Beck & Beck’s award-winning St. Louis truck accident attorneys are dedicated to helping accident victims whose lives have been dramatically altered by a truck accident injury.
Imagine you and your two kids are on I-70, on your way home from the St. Louis Public Library, and while passing a heavily loaded down semi-truck, it’s tire blows out, it loses control, and slams into you.
Or say you are driving on I-64, on your way to see an event at The Dome, and you are sideswiped by a truck who quickly changed lanes not realizing you were there because you were in their blind spot.
Reasons Truck Accidents Happen So Often in Missouri
There are all sorts of reasons crashes involving semi-trucks and 18-wheelers in St. Louis occur. With some exceptions, pretty much all of them are preventable. Common causes these wrecks happen include:
- Driving Too Fast
- Tired and Drowsy Driving
- Being Distracted While Driving
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance
- Improper Cargo Loading
- Driving Impaired or While Intoxicated
- Aggressive, Reckless, and Dangerous Driving
- Drivers Without Adequate Training
- Truck Mechanical Failures and Part Malfunction
- Unsafe and Improper Lane Changes
- Making Illegal Turns
- Road and Weather Conditions
No matter how a truck wreck occurred, if negligence played a part, then hiring our experienced St. Louis truck accident lawyers will be in your best interest. At Beck & Beck’s truck accident injury law firm we offer free case evaluations and are here 24/7 to answer your questions. Call us now at (314) 470-4928 or fill out our website contact form.
Who Can Be Held Liable in an Accident Involving a Commercial Vehicle in St. Louis, Missouri?
Multiple parties could potentially be held liable for the resulting damages in a commercial vehicle accident in St. Louis, Missouri. These accidents often involve large trucks, such as big rigs, semi-trucks, or tankers, which can cause severe harm due to their size and weight. Identifying liability requires careful consideration of various factors and the roles of different parties involved.
The truck owner may be liable if they fail to maintain the vehicle properly. Issues like worn-out brakes or tires that lead to an accident could make the owner responsible for the crash. Ensuring routine maintenance is crucial for preventing such accidents.
The truck driver is another critical party who can be held accountable. Drivers must adhere to traffic laws and regulations. If they engage in negligent behavior, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, they can be held liable for the accident.
Cargo-loading employees also play a role in determining liability. If a truck is overloaded or unevenly loaded, it can become difficult to handle, leading to accidents. Those responsible for loading the cargo must comply with weight limits and secure the load properly to avoid such issues.
The truck manufacturer may be held liable if the vehicle has a design flaw or defect that contributes to an accident. If the truck’s design or manufacturing defect is found to be a factor, a claim can be made against the manufacturer.
The truck maintenance company might be liable if the company fails to perform necessary maintenance or repairs. Negligence in maintaining the truck can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents.
The fleet company could also be held responsible, especially if the truck is part of a larger company. For instance, if a company imposes unrealistic deadlines that force drivers to exceed legal driving hours, the fleet company might be liable for any accidents due to driver fatigue.
Navigating these complex factors requires expertise, so consulting with a skilled attorney is crucial for exploring all legal options and ensuring rightful compensation.
The trucking industry is regulated by federal and state laws designed to maintain safety and reduce accidents. If you or a loved one is affected, seeking dedicated legal assistance can help address the accident’s physical, emotional, and financial impacts.
To learn more about liability in Missouri truck crash lawsuits, contact our experienced St. Louis truck accident attorneys today. Attorneys Paul Beck and John Beck offer free consultations and are never too busy to speak with you.
Why Are Missouri Truck Accident Claims So Complicated?
Truck accident claims in St. Louis, Missouri, are inherently more complicated due to several factors:
Multiple Parties Involved:
Unlike regular car accidents, truck accidents involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, contractors, and insurance companies.
As a result, several parties may investigate a truck accident. Law enforcement typically arrives at the scene to document the incident and gather initial information. Insurance companies for both parties may conduct their investigations.
Additionally, trucking companies often have internal investigation processes. In complex cases, independent accident reconstruction experts may be hired to analyze the evidence.
Regulatory Compliance:
Trucking companies and drivers must adhere to strict Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations. Violations of these regulations can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Severity of Damages:
Trucks’ sheer size and weight mean that accidents usually result in more severe injuries and damages, leading to higher compensation claims and more intensive investigations.
Truck crash claims can be extremely complicated. This is why consulting with our skilled St. Louis personal injury lawyers after a crash is crucial. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation.
Are There Rules and Regulations For Truck Drivers in St. Louis, Missouri?
Truck drivers in St. Louis, Missouri, must follow a range of rules and regulations at the federal and state levels.
On the federal level, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes key regulations for truck drivers. These include hours of service rules that limit the driving time to prevent fatigue and standards for vehicle maintenance and safety inspections to ensure that trucks are roadworthy.
The FMCSA also requires specific driver qualifications and licensing to ensure that drivers are adequately trained and skilled.
Additionally, truck drivers in Missouri must follow local road safety rules and traffic regulations, which can vary by municipality and affect their operation within St. Louis.
These regulations promote road safety, minimize accidents, and ensure truck operations comply with legal standards. Adherence to these rules is essential for maintaining safe roads in St. Louis.
Missouri State rules and regulations
In Missouri, truck drivers must comply with specific state rules and regulations to ensure road safety and compliance.
Vehicle safety requirements are a crucial aspect of Missouri’s regulations. According to the Missouri Trucking Guide, trucks must meet stringent safety standards, including functioning brakes, proper lighting, and secure cargo. These requirements prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures or inadequate vehicle maintenance.
Inspection and maintenance protocols are also strictly enforced. As detailed on page 9 of the guide, trucks must undergo regular inspections to identify and address any mechanical issues before they become a hazard. Maintenance routines include checking critical systems such as brakes, tires, and steering components to ensure the vehicle remains in safe operating condition.
Driver safety requirements are outlined on page 11 of the guide. These regulations mandate that drivers possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and adhere to specific training and certification standards. Additionally, Missouri law requires that drivers comply with state-specific rules regarding hours of service, ensuring they do not drive while fatigued, which helps to reduce the risk of accidents.
Federal rules and regulations
Federal rules and regulations ensure safety and efficiency in the trucking industry across the United States, including St. Louis, Missouri. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees these regulations, which are designed to enhance road safety and reduce the risk of accidents involving commercial trucks.
One key federal regulation is the hours of service rule. This regulation limits the number of hours a truck driver can be on the road to combat driver fatigue. It specifies maximum driving times and mandatory rest periods to help drivers remain alert and reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by drowsiness.
Vehicle maintenance requirements are another critical component. The FMCSA mandates regular inspections and maintenance to keep trucks operating safely. These inspections cover essential systems such as brakes, tires, and lights to prevent mechanical failures that could lead to accidents.
Driver qualifications are also strictly regulated. As we mentioned, drivers must possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and meet specific training and certification standards. This ensures that only qualified individuals operate large commercial vehicles, reducing the risk of accidents due to inexperience or lack of proper training.
Cargo securement rules are enforced to prevent accidents caused by shifting loads. Properly securing cargo ensures that it does not move during transit, which can lead to dangerous situations like rollovers or loss of control.
Additionally, drug and alcohol testing regulations are in place to ensure drivers are not under the influence of substances that could impair their driving abilities. Regular testing helps maintain a high standard of safety on the roads.
For detailed information on these and other federal regulations, refer to the FMCSA regulations for truck drivers. These federal laws are crucial for maintaining road safety and ensuring that truck drivers adhere to rigorous standards, helping to prevent accidents and enhance overall traffic safety.
What If I Was Partially Responsible For The Truck Accident in St. Louis, Missouri?
If you find yourself partially at fault for a truck accident in St. Louis, Missouri’s comparative negligence rule will impact your compensation. Personal injury claims aim to cover the costs of your injuries, but your share of responsibility will reduce your potential recovery.
Understanding Missouri’s Comparative Negligence Rule
Missouri uses a “pure comparative fault” system. This means that even if you are partially responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages, though your percentage of fault will reduce them. For instance, if you’ve found 30% at fault for a truck accident and are awarded $100,000 in damages, your compensation would be reduced to $70,000.
How Fault Is Determined
The fault percentage in a truck accident is assessed based on various factors:
- Accident Investigation: This includes reviewing important evidence such as the police report, witness testimony, your medical records, and other relevant material, to determine how the accident occurred and each party’s role.
- Contributory Negligence: Your level of negligence is compared to the other party’s. For example, if you were distracted while driving but the truck driver was also speeding, both factors are considered in determining fault.
- Liability Apportionment: Fault percentages are used to divide liability and damages. If the truck driver is found 70% at fault, they would be responsible for 70% of the damages, and you would cover the remaining 30%.
Passenger Liability
In Missouri, even passengers can be deemed partially or fully at fault if their actions contributed to the accident. For example, if a passenger distracted the driver or interfered with their vehicle control, they might share the responsibility.
Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney is essential if you’re partially at fault in a truck accident. They can help navigate Missouri’s comparative negligence laws and work to maximize your compensation despite shared fault.
Looking for a “truck accident lawyer near me” in St. Louis? Our legal team is here to help. Contact us today for a free case review to discuss your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What Types of Evidence Will Strengthen My St. Louis Truck Accident Claim?
Gathering comprehensive and detailed evidence is crucial to building a solid case when pursuing a truck accident claim. Each piece of evidence plays a specific role in establishing liability, proving damages, and securing the compensation you deserve. Here’s a breakdown of the types of evidence that can significantly strengthen your claim:
Police Report
The report from the St. Louis Police Department is fundamental evidence in any truck accident claim. It provides an official account of the incident, including crucial details such as the accident’s date, time, and location.
The report will also document statements from the involved parties and witnesses as well as the officer’s observations. This report can help establish the basic facts of the accident and provide an objective record of the scene.
Photographs and Videos
Visual evidence can be compelling in illustrating the accident’s impact. Photographs should capture:
- Damage to Vehicles: Show the extent of damage to both the truck and any other vehicles involved.
- Accident Scene: Document road conditions, skid marks, and contributing factors like potholes or road debris.
- Traffic Signs and Signals: Highlight relevant traffic control devices and their conditions.
Videos can further enhance your case by capturing the sequence of events and providing a dynamic view of the incident. This can be particularly useful for showing the behavior of the truck driver and other vehicles involved.
Eyewitness Testimonies
Eyewitnesses can provide valuable perspectives on the accident. Their statements can corroborate your account of the incident and offer insights into the truck driver’s actions or any contributing factors. Collect detailed contact information from witnesses and their statements to strengthen your claim.
Driver and Company Details
Collecting information about the truck driver and their employer is essential. Key details include:
- Driver’s Name and Contact Information: Obtain their full name, phone number, and email address.
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Information: Note the driver’s CDL number and the issuing state.
- Trucking Company Name and Contact Information: Document the company’s name, address, and contact details.
Electronic Data Recorders (EDRs) and Black Boxes
Modern trucks are equipped with EDRs, often referred to as black boxes. These devices capture critical data such as:
- Speed: Information on the truck’s speed before and during the accident.
- Braking Patterns: Data on how and when the brakes were applied.
- Engine Diagnostics: Details on the truck’s performance and any mechanical issues.
Accessing and analyzing EDR data can provide crucial evidence to support your claim and help establish the truck’s operational status during the accident.
Medical Records
Comprehensive medical records are vital to demonstrate the extent of your injuries. Keep detailed records of all treatments and medical bills, including:
- Hospital Visits and Surgeries: Document all medical interventions.
- Medications and Therapies: Record prescriptions and rehabilitative treatments.
- Impact on Daily Life: Show how the injuries have affected your personal and professional life.
Truck Maintenance Records
Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles. Obtain maintenance records to check for:
- Regular Inspections: Evidence of routine checks and repairs.
- Past Repairs: Records of any significant repairs or mechanical issues.
- Reported Problems: Any documented issues with the truck that could have contributed to the accident.
Employment and Training Histories
Investigate the truck driver’s employment and training backgrounds to assess their qualifications and experience. Look into:
- Employment History: Past jobs and any previous accidents or violations.
- Training Records: Verify that the driver had proper training and certification.
Cargo Loading Procedures
If improperly loaded cargo contributed to the accident, gather evidence on the following:
- Loading Process: Documentation of how the cargo was loaded and secured.
- Weight Limits: Ensure compliance with maximum weight regulations.
Weather and Traffic Reports
Weather and traffic conditions can influence accident liability. Obtain reports that detail:
- Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, snow, or other factors on the day of the accident.
- Traffic Reports: Information on road congestion or construction that could have impacted the accident.
Personal Impact Diary
Maintaining a diary of your physical, emotional, and financial challenges post-accident can be instrumental. Record:
- Daily Struggles: Pain levels, limitations, and impacts on daily activities.
- Financial Hardships: Missed work, lost wages, and additional expenses incurred.
Gathering and presenting this comprehensive evidence will strengthen your truck accident claim and ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses. For personalized legal assistance, consider contacting an experienced St. Louis truck accident attorney to guide you through the complexities of your case.
What Damages Can I Recover in a St. Louis Truck Accident Claim?
Truck accident victims facing permanent disabilities can pursue significant compensation as long as their claim is filed within the 5-year deadline as specified by Missouri’s personal injury statute of limitations.
Economic damages are quantifiable monetary losses resulting from the accident. These include past and future medical bills, lost wages, and diminished earning potential.
Accurately calculating future economic losses often requires expert analysis from economists and rehabilitation specialists to protect the victim’s potential income and career path.
Non-economic damages are subjective and compensate for intangible losses. These include the physical and emotional pain and suffering endured, the loss of enjoyment of life, and disfigurement.
Determining fair compensation for these losses is complex as there’s no exact formula. A skilled attorney can help you understand damages, and how to recover lost income after an accident involving a truck.
How Is Compensation Calculated in a Trucking Accident Case St. Louis, Missouri?
While every truck accident case is unique, the factors considered when determining compensation tend to be similar.
Severity of Injuries: The extent of your injuries is a significant factor. More severe injuries requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation will typically lead to higher compensation.
Medical Bills and Rehabilitation Expenses: Current and future medical bills associated with your truck accident injuries are factored in. This includes hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and any ongoing care you may need.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: We consider lost wages due to missed work and any potential future reduction in earning capacity due to your injuries.
Damage to Property: Damage to your vehicle and other personal belongings involved in the accident will be assessed for compensation.
Pain and Suffering: This is a subjective factor that considers the physical and emotional pain you’ve endured as a result of the accident.
The Impact of the Accident on Your Life: The accident’s impact on your daily life, such as limitations on activities or hobbies, is also considered.
It’s important to understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and the specific amount you receive will depend on the details of your situation.
What Are Some of the Types of Semi-Truck Accidents in St. Louis, Missouri?
Semi-truck accidents in St. Louis, Missouri, vary in type, each presenting distinct hazards. One particularly dangerous type is the jackknife accident, where the truck’s trailer swings out, forming a sharp angle with the cab and often causing multi-vehicle collisions.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s 2022 report, 161 jackknife crashes were reported in Missouri in 2021, underlining the frequency of these severe incidents.
Truck underride accidents are another severe type, where a smaller vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. These accidents are especially deadly, as the smaller vehicle’s upper part is often crushed under the truck’s trailer. Poor visibility or sudden braking can contribute to such crashes.
Blind Spot Accidents are also common with semi-trucks. Due to the truck’s size, there are significant blind spots on all sides where smaller vehicles can be invisible to the driver. If a car is in one of these blind spots when the truck changes lanes or makes a turn, it can result in a severe collision. These accidents are hazardous on highways and in congested traffic areas like St. Louis.
Tire Blowout Accidents occur when a truck’s tire suddenly bursts, leading to loss of control. The large debris from the blowout can strike other vehicles, and the truck may swerve into adjacent lanes, potentially causing a multi-vehicle crash. These incidents are often due to poor maintenance or overloading.
Wide Turns are another risky maneuver for trucks. When making a right turn, trucks often need to swing left before turning right to avoid curbing, creating a dangerous situation for nearby vehicles. Cars caught between the truck and the curb during these wide turns can be crushed or forced off the road, leading to severe injuries.
Lost or Shifting Cargo Accidents are unique to trucks due to their heavy loads. Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced and leading to rollover accidents. Additionally, if cargo falls onto the roadway, it can cause severe accidents for following vehicles.
Construction Zone Accidents are particularly hazardous due to the tight spaces and constant changes in traffic patterns. Trucks navigating construction zones may struggle with reduced lanes and sharp turns, increasing the likelihood of collisions with other vehicles or barriers.
Lastly, rollover accidents involve a truck tipping over onto its side, potentially crushing nearby vehicles and causing severe injuries. These accidents can be triggered by sharp turns, high speeds, or shifting cargo. Understanding these types of truck accidents, as outlined by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, highlights the need for experienced legal representation in the aftermath of such incidents.
To learn more about the common types of truck accidents, contact our legal team today. We offer free case evaluations.
Why Choose Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers?
Choosing the right lawyer after a truck accident is crucial. Here’s why hiring a skilled attorney from our law firm should be your top choice:
Immediate Legal Assistance
If you were in an accident involving a commercial truck, you likely need an attorney immediately. Truck crashes often result in severe injuries and complex legal battles.
Specialized Expertise
Truck accident lawsuits differ from car accident lawsuits because the stakes are much higher. Our attorneys have the expertise and experience to handle these complex cases.
Insurance Requirements
Trucking companies have higher insurance requirements compared to regular vehicles. This often involves multiple insurance policies and higher potential compensation but also more complicated claims. Our team is well-versed in navigating these intricacies.
Local Knowledge
Accidents can happen anywhere, but in St. Louis, significant freeways such as I-70, I-64, and I-44 are frequent sites of truck accidents. Our familiarity with these routes and local traffic conditions gives us an edge in handling your case.
Trial-Ready Legal Team
At our accident and injury law firm in St. Louis, Missouri, we don’t settle for less. If necessary, Attorneys Paul Beck and John Beck will take your case to trial, employing top-notch investigators and experts to build a strong case.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and discuss your legal options.
St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis, Missouri, sees a high volume of trucks on its roads due to its central role in the national transportation network. The city’s strategic location at the crossroads of major interstate highways, such as I-70, I-55, and I-64, makes it a critical link between the East and West coasts.
This geographic advantage allows for efficient movement of goods across the country, making St. Louis a key hub for the trucking industry. Missouri’s position as a transportation corridor is further bolstered by its extensive rail connections and proximity to major markets, which together support a robust trucking industry that relies heavily on St. Louis as a logistical center.
The St. Louis Regional Freightway for example, highlights the city’s significance in the national freight network and facilitates the movement of goods across the country.
The Port of Metropolitan St. Louis also plays a significant role in the region’s trucking activity. As one of the largest inland ports in the United States, it serves as a gateway for various products, including agricultural goods, manufactured items, and raw materials, to be distributed by truck throughout the region.
The port’s location along the Mississippi River allows for the efficient transfer of goods between river barges, rail, and trucks, contributing to the steady flow of commercial vehicles on St. Louis roads.
This combination of strategic geography and vital infrastructure, including highways and the port, helps explain why there are so many trucks on the roads in St. Louis. The city’s importance in the national supply chain means that trucking will continue to dominate its roadways, supporting the movement of goods across Missouri and beyond.
Resources For Injured Victims of Truck Accidents in St. Louis
If you’ve been injured in an accident with a truck, these resources can be of valuable assistance.
West Pine Medical specializes in soft tissue injuries and other injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents. You can visit them at 5585 Pershing Ave, Suite 235, Saint Louis, MO 63112-4621.
Tom’s Truck Repair can get your truck back in order after a wreck. They also do inspections, welding and fabrication, and more. Tom’s is at 3500 N 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63147.
Roadrunner Truck Repair offers complete repair services as well as preventative maintenance. Visit their shop at 730 Campbell Ave., St. Louis, MO 63147.
Experienced 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in St. Louis, Missouri
Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers is a leading truck accident law firm in St. Louis, MO. With years of experience and a deep understanding of truck accident laws, we are dedicated to helping victims get the compensation they deserve.
Whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to trial, our attorneys are committed to achieving your best possible outcome.
Locations in and around St. Louis which our truck accident law firm serves include Florissant, Maplewood, Richmond Heights, Wellston, Jennings and more.
