Liberty, MO 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer

Experienced 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys Serving Liberty, Missouri

liberty-18-Wheeler-Accident-AttorneyWhen a massive 18-wheeler collides with a smaller passenger vehicle, it creates an unequal match-up, especially if the truck is carrying a full load of cargo. The weight difference alone indicates which vehicle will suffer the most damage. Additionally, the large size of the trucks and the flexible connection between the tractor and trailer make them particularly hazardous to smaller vehicles, often resulting in fatal accidents. If you’ve been the victim of an 18-wheeler accident, our Liberty, MO 18-wheeler accident lawyer at Taylor Siemens Elliott Creedy & Lyle P.C. is here to help.

Causes Of Liberty 18-Wheeler Accidents

Commercial truck drivers must be specially licensed and held to a higher standard of skill and care, while smaller vehicle drivers should exercise extra caution when driving near these big rigs. Despite this, commercial motor vehicles were involved in over nine percent of all Missouri traffic accidents in 2011, with an even higher percentage (15.2 percent) of fatal accidents involving commercial vehicles.

There are several factors that can cause 18-wheeler accidents, including:

  • Driver error: This can include distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, fatigue, and inexperience.
  • Poor maintenance: If the truck is not properly maintained, it can lead to equipment failures, such as brake or tire failure.
  • Overloading: When the truck is overloaded or the cargo is not properly secured, it can shift or fall off, causing the truck to lose control.
  • Adverse weather conditions: Rain, snow, ice, and fog can make driving conditions more dangerous, especially for large trucks.
  • Road conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement can cause a truck driver to lose control.
  • Improper training: Trucking companies may not properly train their drivers on how to handle the specific challenges of driving an 18-wheeler.
  • Other drivers: Other drivers on the road may not be aware of the limitations of large trucks and can cause accidents by cutting them off or driving in their blind spots.

The Complexity Of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Commercial truck accidents are complex by nature, with a range of legal issues that need to be addressed. In addition to typical factors such as speed, signaling, and distance between vehicles, truck accidents may also involve federal, state, and local regulations related to hazardous material transport, passenger transport, driver licensing and training, driver hours, vehicle safety and equipment, vehicle weight, securing cargo, and maintenance and inspection. The trucking industry structure itself can also add to the complexity of determining who is responsible for the operation of the truck, and our Liberty 18-wheeler accident attorney will assist along the way.

With our extensive ties to the local community, we have access to a comprehensive network of experts who can assist us in:

  • Evaluating the extent of your damages.
  • Conducting a thorough investigation into the accident and its underlying causes.
  • Refining the discovery process to obtain the necessary evidence to hold those responsible for the harm they caused accountable for the impact on your life and future.
  • Providing expert testimony regarding the numerous technical aspects of trucking, such as determining the party legally responsible for the operation of the truck and verifying compliance with applicable regulations.

Reach Out To Our Team Today

The powerful and wealthy nature of the commercial trucking industry means that companies may try to avoid liability at all costs. It is important to have the right Liberty, MO 18-wheeler accident lawyers with experience, determination, and skill to fight for compensation. Taylor Siemens Elliott Creedy & Lyle P.C. attorneys have successfully handled difficult cases against large corporations and insurance companies, and have access to the full range of expert help needed to assess damages, investigate accidents and causes, and obtain evidence to hold those responsible accountable. Contact us today for a consultation, and we will come to you if your injuries prevent you from coming to us.