Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers

St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer
Available for Missouri & Illinois

Find Out if You Have a Case

Looking for a Truck Accident Lawyer in St. Louis?

Trucking accidents often result in some of the most severe injuries. Whether the crash involves a commercial truck or an 18-wheeler, victims of such serious accidents are entitled to seek compensation. To increase the chances of a successful claim, it’s crucial to consult an injury attorney. A truck accident lawyer in St. Louis can assist in gathering and organizing evidence to build a strong case. Schedule a free case investigation today to begin the process of recovering the compensation you deserve.

Missouri Trucker Liability Lawsuit

Tyson Mutrux and the team at Mutrux Firm, LLC can help you gather evidence and build a strong injury claim. Don't wait, contact us today to schedule a free consultation and get started on your road to recovery.

Award-Winning Missouri Truck Accident Lawyer Recognized for Excellence

Tyson Mutrux is recognized for delivering outstanding results in personal injury law. With years of experience managing complex cases, he brings a deep understanding of Missouri law and a client-first approach to every case. His dedication to justice and strong advocacy skills have earned both client loyalty and the respect of fellow attorneys. Because of his consistent results and tireless commitment, Tyson is regarded as one of the most trusted legal professionals in the region.

At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, our commitment to you begins the moment we accept your case. We believe in your story and we show it by covering upfront costs, digging deep into investigations, and preparing every case like it’s going to trial. You deserve representation that’s not only strategic but also compassionate.

Tyson Mutrux is recognized for delivering outstanding results in personal injury law. With years of experience managing complex cases, he brings a deep understanding of Missouri law and a client-first approach to every case. His dedication to justice and strong advocacy skills have earned both client loyalty and the respect of fellow attorneys. Because of his consistent results and tireless commitment, Tyson is regarded as one of the most trusted legal professionals in the region.

truck crash lawyers in missouri

Free Case Investigation by a St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer

Building Your St. Louis Truck Accident Lawsuit

Building your St. Louis truck accident lawsuit isn’t just paperwork – it’s about piecing together your story. From police reports and medical records to witness statements, every detail matters. Proving who’s at fault and calculating damages like lost wages, medical bills, and pain isn’t easy, but the right lawyer makes the process smoother and far less stressful.

When a massive truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the outcome can be life-changing. Truck accidents in St. Louis often lead to severe injuries, emotional trauma, or even wrongful death. So, what damages can you pursue with the help of a dedicated truck accident lawyer?

  • Medical expenses (past and future)

  • Ongoing medical care and rehabilitation

  • Wrongful death claims for grieving families

  • Vehicle and property damage

  • Pain and suffering

  • Emotional distress and trauma

If you’re picking up the pieces after a commercial truck accident in St. Louis, you shouldn’t face it alone. The Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers know how overwhelming this journey can feel and we’re here to fight for you. 

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Missouri?

If you need a skilled St. Louis truck accident lawyer, reach out to Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers for a free case investigation. We are committed to helping you secure justice after your truck accident, and you only pay us if we win your case.

Find Out If You Have A Case
  • Seek medical help
  • Capture evidence
  • File a police report
  • Talk to witnesses
Seek medical help
Capture evidence
File a police report
Talk to witnesses

How Can You Claim Compensation After a Missouri Truck Crash?

Truck crash compensation in Missouri can range from $0 to over $1 million. However, your potential payout depends on several factors, including the severity of injuries, liability, and available insurance coverage. Victims may be entitled to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more.

Missouri also follows a pure comparative fault rule, meaning you can still pursue compensation even if you were partially at fault for the crash. Understanding how these laws work can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.

Damages a St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help You Recover

1. Medical Expenses

Includes ambulance costs, ER treatments, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, mental health therapy, and future medical care.

2. Lost Wages & Earning Capacity

Compensation covers income lost during recovery and reduced future earning potential if your injuries affect your ability to work long-term.

3. Property Damage

Covers repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged in the crash.

4. Pain & Suffering

Victims may recover non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life.

5. Wrongful Death Compensation

In fatal truck crashes, families can seek damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support.


Determining Fault in Missouri Truck Crash Cases

Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning:

  • Victims can recover damages even if up to 99% at fault

  • Compensation is reduced based on your percentage of fault

Potentially liable parties may include:

  • Truck drivers – distracted, fatigued, or impaired driving

  • Trucking companies – unsafe practices or poor training

  • Maintenance providers – failing to service the truck properly

  • Cargo loaders – improperly secured or overloaded cargo

Collecting strong evidence is critical, such as police reports, witness statements, black box data, and maintenance logs.


The Claim Process & Insurance Coverage

  • Insurance policies – Commercial trucks often carry policies ranging from $300,000 to $1 million or more

  • Pre-litigation phase – Attorneys negotiate with insurers to secure a fair settlement

  • Litigation phase – If negotiations fail, your case may proceed to court

  • Legal guidance – Working with an experienced Missouri truck crash lawyer can significantly increase your compensation potential

St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer Insights: Key Missouri Truck Crash Statistics

  • 15,000+ truck crashes occur in Missouri every year

  • 137 fatalities were reported in 2023

  • Settlements are rising due to higher insurance limits and broader recognition of non-economic damages

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck crash, don’t face the trucking companies and their insurers alone. Contact a Missouri truck accident lawyer at Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers today for a free case investigation. We fight to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Truck Crash Claim Blogs

st. louic truck accident attorney

NHTSA Report Shows Safety Tech Fails in Truck Collisions: A St. Louis Accident Lawyer’s View

Discover key findings from the NHTSA’s special crash investigation into rear-end collisions involving passenger vehicles and commercial trucks. Explore insights on driver distraction, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) performance, and crucial safety recommendations for enhancing road safety. Learn essential post-crash steps and stay informed on vehicle trends and recalls to prevent future incidents.

Read More »

Who Is Liable For a Truck Accident in St. Louis?

Establishing Liability in Truck Accidents | Guidance from a Truck Accident Lawyer

When a truck accident occurs in St. Louis, establishing liability is crucial, especially if the truck driver is at fault. Often, negligence on the driver’s part is to blame, and liability can be determined through the following factors:

  • A duty of care was owed
  • This duty of care was breached
  • The breach directly caused injury or death
  • Failure to follow the duty of care led to the injury

How a St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer Investigates the Trucking Company’s Responsibility?

The legal concept of respondeat superior holds the trucking company accountable for the driver’s negligence, as the company must ensure the driver operates the vehicle safely. Trucking companies must comply with specific state and federal regulations, such as the Hours of Service (HOS) laws. Key regulations include:

  • Proper driver training
  • Rigorous screening of drivers
  • Adherence to weight limits
  • Regular vehicle inspections

Hours of Service Regulations

According to HOS laws, truck drivers cannot exceed an 11-hour driving shift and should not be on duty for more than 14 hours. Additionally, after driving for eight hours, drivers must take a 30-minute break to ensure safety.

Other Responsible Parties

While the trucking company typically bears liability, other parties could also share responsibility for the accident. These may include the freight-loading company, the truck manufacturer (in cases of vehicle defects), and the company responsible for maintaining the truck.

Legal Support from The Mutrux Firm

At The Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, our dedicated St. Louis truck accident attorneys will advocate for you at every stage of the legal process. By consulting with professional and gathering key evidence, we aim to build the strongest case for the best possible outcome.

What steps should I take immediately after a truck crash to protect my claim?

Immediately after a truck accident in Missouri, taking prompt and specific steps is critical to protecting your claim and maximizing your eventual compensation. The most important immediate actions include ensuring safety, contacting authorities, documenting evidence, seeking medical care, and getting legal guidance.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

1. Ensure Safety and Call 911

  • Move to a safe area, away from traffic if possible.

  • Call emergency services to report the accident, get a police report, and seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.

2. Document the Scene

  • Take photos and videos of all vehicle damage, surrounding road conditions, skid marks, signage, injuries, and the position of all vehicles.

  • Photograph the truck’s company logos, license plate, and DOT numbers for identification.

3. Gather Information

  • Obtain names, contact info, and insurance details from all drivers involved, including the truck driver and their company.

  • Write down names and contact info for witnesses and collect witness statements if possible.

4. Preserve Evidence

  • Save any damaged property and clothing, as they may help prove the impact and severity of the crash.

  • Request copies of the police report as this legal document will be key evidence later on.

5. Seek Medical Attention

  • Get a thorough examination as soon as possible, even if injuries are not obvious. This creates a medical record linking your injuries directly to the accident.

  • Keep all medical records, bills, and documentation for your claim.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

  • Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, but stick to the facts.

  • Avoid discussing fault or injuries with the trucking company’s insurer or accepting quick settlement offers before consulting a lawyer.

7. Consult a Truck Accident Attorney in Missouri or Illinois

  • If you are searching for a truck accident attorney near me then contact us, we help you secure evidence, issue spoliation letters (formal notices to preserve records and black box data), and guide you through legal complexities.

Common Truck Accident Injury Types

Traumatic Brain & Head Injuries

From a seemingly minor concussion to severe trauma, a brain injury can have lasting effects on memory, cognitive function, and your quality of life. These cases require a deep understanding of the long-term challenges victims face.

Spinal Cord Injuries

An injury to the spinal cord is life-altering, often resulting in paralysis, loss of sensation, and the need for lifelong medical care. We fight to secure the resources your family needs to adapt and move forward with stability.

Whiplash & Neck Injuries

Often dismissed by insurance companies, a serious neck or whiplash injury can cause chronic pain and mobility issues. We take these injuries seriously and work to prove their full, long-term impact on your daily life.

Broken Bones & Fractures

A severe fracture is more than a temporary inconvenience. It can require surgery with plates and screws, extensive rehabilitation, and may lead to a permanent reduction in function or lasting pain.

Internal Injuries

The damage from an accident is not always visible. Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, are medical emergencies with long and complicated recovery periods that demand immediate attention.

Severe Burns & Lacerations

Beyond the initial pain, serious burns and cuts can result in permanent scarring, infections, and significant emotional distress. Reconstructive surgeries and ongoing wound care are often necessary.

commercial truck crash settlement

How a St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer Can Strengthen Your Truck Accident Claim?

Absolutely. An experienced truck accident attorney can investigate your case, gather crucial evidence, handle tough negotiations with insurance companies, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
 
  • Investigating and Gathering Evidence

  • Identifying All Liable Parties

  • Calculating and Maximizing Damages

  • Negotiating and Litigating Against Powerful Opponents

Life Shattered by a Semi-Truck Crash? See How a Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

A semi-truck accident can devastate your life in an instant, placing an enormous burden on your family. These crashes often cause catastrophic injuries that demand extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long periods off work.

As medical bills pile up, the lost income adds crushing financial stress. In the worst cases, families face the heartbreaking loss of a loved one, forcing them to navigate emotional grief and complex legal challenges simultaneously. After such a trauma, knowing how to protect your rights is the first step toward justice.

Why You Need a St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer for Semi-Truck Collision Cases?

Semi-truck accident cases are far more complex than standard car accident claims. They involve federal trucking regulations, multiple potentially liable parties (the driver, the trucking company, the maintenance provider, the cargo loader), and powerful insurance carriers.

Many personal injury firms handle these cases without a deep understanding of these regulations or the resources needed to fight back. At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we are not just personal injury lawyers; we are an experienced truck accident attorney team in Missouri with a strong track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for victims.

Our attorneys have a thorough command of commercial trucking laws, including hours-of-service regulations, vehicle maintenance requirements, and complex liability disputes. Using advanced investigative tools, we pinpoint the exact cause of the crash, whether it’s driver fatigue, equipment failure, or a regulatory violation and build a solid case.

 

How Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers Supports Your Recovery?

The right semi truck accident attorney can make a significant difference in your case’s outcome. At Mutrux Firm, we combine our deep legal knowledge with the critical resources needed to pursue maximum compensation. Our team works closely with accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and financial analysts to prove the full, devastating extent of your injuries, financial losses, and emotional suffering.

Your Partner Every Step of the Way

From the initial consultation to the final resolution, we remain by your side. We handle all insurance negotiations, fight aggressively for fair settlements, and are always prepared to take your case to court when necessary. Our priority is ensuring you receive full compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and all other damages.

How Much Will My Truck Accident Claim in St. Louis Settle For?

Determining how much your St. Louis truck accident lawyer can help you win is challenging because settlements depend on various factors, and no two cases are alike. After thoroughly investigating the details of your claim, we can provide a more accurate estimate of the compensation you may be entitled to. While each case is unique, our goal is to ensure you receive the maximum amount possible based on the specifics of your situation.

What Are Some Common Causes of Truck Accidents in St. Louis? Truck Accident Lawyer Insights

Truck accidents can be caused by a number of different factors. Some of the most common include the following:

Impairment by alcohol or drugs can severely reduce a driver’s awareness of their surroundings, often leading to catastrophic accidents.

Speeding leads to many truck accidents because it can cause drivers to lose control and significantly reduce their reaction time in emergencies.

Truck drivers must adhere to regulations that limit their work hours to prevent fatigue-related accidents.

In adverse weather conditions, the truck driver might have reduced visibility, or loose traction on the slick roadway, causing an accident to occur.

If a truck driver does not receive adequate training, they could make a careless mistake that could have been addressed had the driver received the hands-on training needed for the job.

In some cases, the manufacturer of the truck involved in the accident could be held liable for faulty components or maintenance issues that could have led to the accident.

Regardless of what led up to the accident, your St. Louis truck accident lawyers are ready and able to help you throughout the process of filing your claim, and will work on your behalf to settle your claim.

st. louis car crash lawyer

What Factors Can Maximize Your Truck Accident Settlement in St. Louis, Missouri?

Let’s be honest, when an 80,000-pound semi-truck collides with your vehicle, there’s nothing “minor” about it. But when it comes to St. Louis truck accident settlements, some factors can send your case value soaring faster than a fully loaded rig on I-70. Here’s what really drives those big numbers:

1. The More Serious the Injuries, the Higher the Settlement

If your crash caused catastrophic injuries, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, or wrongful death, you’re entering serious settlement territory. We’re talking six figures to multi-million-dollar recoveries.

Long-term disabilities also push settlements higher because future care, rehab, and lost income don’t come cheap. Life-changing injuries usually mean life-changing compensation.

2. Medical Bills That Could Rival a Mortgage

In truck crash cases, the cost of treatment plays a huge role in determining settlement value. Surgeries, rehabilitation, therapy, and lifelong care rack up massive bills and insurance companies know it.

If you require permanent modifications to your home, like wheelchair ramps, stair lifts, or even full-time in-home nursing, those expenses are factored into your compensation.

3. Pain, Suffering, and the Invisible Damage

Missouri law allows compensation for non-economic damages like emotional distress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Translation? If your life has been turned upside down after the crash, a skilled St. Louis personal injury lawyer can help you fight for a settlement that reflects more than just your medical bills.

4. Multiple Parties = Bigger Payout Potential

Truck crashes in St. Louis often involve several liable parties, the driver, the trucking company, the cargo loaders, the maintenance crews, or even the truck’s manufacturer.

More parties involved means more insurance coverage, which often leads to larger settlements. Commercial trucking policies typically have much deeper pockets than regular auto insurance.

5. Safety Violations and Negligence That Can Boost Your Case

If a trucking company ignored federal safety regulations, pushed drivers past their legal hours, skipped essential maintenance, or overloaded their trucks, settlement values increase fast.

And if there’s proof of intoxication, distracted driving, or falsified logbooks, you may also qualify for punitive damages, extra compensation meant to punish reckless behavior.

6. Strong Evidence Builds Strong Negotiations

Police reports, dashcam footage, black box data, GPS tracking, and witness statements, these are your secret weapons in settlement negotiations.

Think of it like poker: the stronger your hand, the faster the other side folds.

7. Minimizing Your Share of the Blame

Missouri follows pure comparative fault, which means your settlement is reduced by your percentage of fault. A skilled St. Louis truck accident lawyer works to minimize your liability so you keep more of your compensation.

Final Takeaway

St. Louis truck accident settlements tend to climb highest when injuries are severe, multiple parties are responsible, medical costs are significant, and the trucking company violated safety rules. The right legal team makes all the difference, from gathering powerful evidence to fighting for every dollar you deserve.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in St. Louis, Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers is here to help you turn your wreck into recovery.

How to Prevent a Bad Weather-Related Accident from Occurring?

Preventing Weather-Related Crashes

Most weather-related crashes can be avoided. The safest option is to stay off the road during hazardous conditions. If driving is necessary, reduce speed significantly to lower the risk of a crash. In areas with severe weather, using snow tires, installing chains, and keeping headlights on improves safety.

Truck drivers who feel their vehicle hydroplaning, skidding, or sliding should pull over and wait for better conditions before continuing.

How Do Truck Blind Spots Contribute to Serious Accidents?

Common Damages in a Blind Spot Trucking Accident

Blind spot trucking accidents can result in significant damage, including:

  • Side-impact damage to vehicles
  • Broken mirrors on both trucks and cars
  • Structural damage to bridges, guardrails, or medians

In addition to vehicle and property damage, victims of these accidents often suffer catastrophic injuries. For instance, if a truck unexpectedly slams into the side of a nearby vehicle, the force could result in a traumatic brain injury. The violent impact may also cause the victim’s head and spine to jerk suddenly, leading to neck and spinal injuries. These types of injuries can be particularly costly due to the ongoing medical treatment required, which may extend for weeks, months, or even years.

Preventing Jackknife Tractor Trailer Accidents in St. Louis County

Many jackknife accidents can be avoided by driving cautiously and adjusting speed to match road conditions. For example, when there is moisture or ice on the road, truck drivers should take extra care and reduce their speed to avoid losing control.

If a jackknife accident occurs and it was not foreseeable or preventable, the injured party may not be able to recover damages. However, it is rare for such accidents to be entirely unavoidable. In most cases, a failure to take the necessary precautions leads to these dangerous incidents.

Preventing Jackknifing Through Mechanical Checks

Regular mechanical checks can significantly reduce the risk of jackknifing. One of the leading causes of these accidents is defective tires and wheels, which can be easily remedied by monitoring them during stops and transit. By making these checks routine every time the truck stops, the likelihood of accidents caused by equipment failure decreases.

How to Reduce a Truck’s Weight?

To ensure compliance with federal regulations, trucking companies should carefully monitor the weight of their vehicles. In addition to adhering to these rules, truckers can utilize weigh stations during their journey to keep track of their load weight. Proper weigh-ins at the pickup location and maintaining accurate logs are crucial. This way, if the truck is found to be overweight at a station, the records can show that the incorrect weight was provided at the pickup point.

Characteristics of an Overweight or Overloaded Truck

According to St. Louis County truck regulations, a truck is considered overweight if its gross vehicle weight exceeds 80,000 pounds. However, there are additional weight limitations to consider:

  • Interstate system: No more than 20,000 pounds per axle.
  • Missouri highways: No more than 22,000 pounds per axle.
  • Commercial zones (per Section 304.190): No more than 22,400 pounds per axle.

It’s also important to note that the manufacturer’s weight rating for the steering axle and tires must not be exceeded.

The Dangers of Operating an Overloaded Truck

Operating a truck over the allowable weight poses several dangers. Most obviously, it becomes a hazard to other vehicles on the road. Additionally, overweight trucks contribute to the destruction of roadways and bridges, leading to long-term damage and costly repairs.

Missouri Statute Section 304.200 does provide permits for vehicles carrying non-divisible loads that exceed legal dimensions or weights. However, these permits come with restrictions, including prohibiting movement on holidays such as:

  • New Year’s Day
  • Memorial Day
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day
  • Thanksgiving
  • Christmas

The Reality of Overweight Trucks

Although the percentage of trucks operating over the safe weight limit is relatively low, the numbers are still staggering. Each year, over 208 million trucks are weighed, and despite strict regulations, tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of semi-trucks are found to be overweight. The sheer volume of these trucks presents a serious concern, even if the actual percentage is small.

St. Louis truck accident lawyer

Statute of Limitations for Truck Accidents in Missouri

According to the Missouri Statute of Limitations, accident victims have up to five years to file a claim. However, it is crucial to contact your St. Louis truck accident lawyer as soon as possible so we can begin working on your case right away. By acting promptly, your semi-truck accident lawyer can use their knowledge and experience to guide you through the process and help secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

How a St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer Can Maximize Settlements for Permanent Disfigurement Claims?

Permanent disfigurement can significantly increase settlement values in Missouri truck accident cases because the impact goes far beyond physical injuries. Victims often face lifelong emotional, social, and financial challenges, which makes these claims especially complex and high-value.

Why Settlement Values Increase?

  • Lasting Physical Changes – Severe scarring, facial injuries, or limb damage often result in permanent changes to appearance and mobility. These visible effects commonly lead to higher settlement calculations.

  • Emotional and Psychological Effects – Disfigurement can cause anxiety, depression, and loss of confidence. Since Missouri does not cap non-economic damages in truck accident claims, compensation for pain and suffering can be substantial.

  • Impact on Daily Life – When an injury limits social participation or prevents someone from enjoying activities they once loved, settlements often increase to reflect this diminished quality of life.

  • Future Medical Care – Ongoing surgeries, reconstructive procedures, therapy, and other long-term treatments raise the overall settlement value, especially when lifelong care is needed.

Typical Settlement Outcomes

Truck accident cases involving permanent disfigurement often lead to settlements ranging from $500,000 to several million dollars, depending on the severity of injuries, visibility of scarring, and the impact on a victim’s ability to work or live independently.

If you’ve suffered disfigurement after a St. Louis truck accident, consulting an experienced St. Louis truck accident lawyer can help you pursue maximum compensation and secure the resources you need for ongoing care.

Trucking Company Liability When Drivers Are At Fault

When a truck driver is at fault, suing the trucking company directly is often possible. Companies are held vicariously liable for employee negligence (respondeat superior). Direct claims also arise from inadequate hiring, training, or maintenance. This provides a comprehensive path to securing fair compensation for your injuries.

What to Expect from Insurance Adjusters in Commercial Truck Wrecks

In commercial truck accidents, insurance adjusters must consider a variety of crucial factors when assessing the case. These factors typically include:

  • Licensing status of the truck driver – Whether or not the driver holds a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).
  • Fault determination – Who is legally responsible for causing the crash.
  • Cause of the accident – Investigating contributing factors such as driver error, weather conditions, or road hazards.
  • Mechanical defects – Any potential malfunction or defect in the truck that could have led to the accident.
  • Cargo contents – What substances or materials the truck was transporting, especially if they are hazardous.
  • Driver’s legal status – The truck driver’s compliance with relevant trucking laws and regulations.
  • Driver’s licensing status – Ensuring that the driver was properly licensed to operate the commercial vehicle.
  • Injury severity – Assessing the extent and impact of injuries sustained by the drivers involved.

Insurance adjusters often report back to their company, but there can be a risk that their evaluation may not fully represent the damages you’re owed. This is why consulting with an attorney is critical. An attorney can perform an independent investigation, ensuring that the damages are calculated fairly and accurately, preventing you from being shortchanged by the insurance company.

Insurance Requirements for Trucking Companies

In most states, trucking companies must carry insurance for both their vehicles and drivers. This often includes standard auto insurance, but additional coverage may be required, such as:

  • Medical payment coverage – Which pays for medical expenses regardless of who is at fault.
  • Umbrella coverage – An extra layer of liability protection in the event that a serious accident exceeds the limits of standard coverage.

Mandatory Liability Coverage

The required liability coverage depends largely on the type of cargo being transported. When a truck is carrying hazardous materials, it is mandatory in every state for the trucking company to have adequate insurance coverage. However, when nonhazardous materials are being transported, some states may offer flexibility regarding the type and amount of insurance coverage required. Regardless of the cargo, trucking companies must maintain appropriate coverage to ensure compensation for accidents involving their vehicles.

By speaking with an attorney, you can ensure that your interests are protected, and you won’t be misled during settlement negotiations with the insurance company.

What Should You Know About Comparative Negligence After a St. Louis Truck Crash?

Comparative Negligence in Missouri

Missouri’s comparative negligence law allows injured parties to seek compensation even if they share some fault in a truck accident. Unlike contributory negligence, which bars any recovery, Missouri law permits claims as long as the defendant is at least 1% responsible.

Why It Matters in Truck Accidents?

In St. Louis County truck accident cases, comparative negligence can impact settlements. If the injured party is partially at fault, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of responsibility. Trucking companies often use this to minimize payouts, making strong legal representation crucial.

How It Affects Your Case?

Since fault directly influences compensation, insurance companies may try to shift blame. An experienced attorney can challenge unfair fault assignments and fight for the maximum settlement you deserve.

How Do You Prove Liability in a St. Louis Truck Accident?

When determining responsibility for a truck accident in St. Louis County, several factors come into play:
  • Road blockages
  • Road conditions
  • Traffic signs or signals

To understand the circumstances surrounding the accident, various tools may be employed, including videos, photographs, tire marks, and data from devices that record events during the crash. Event data recorders, in particular, can prove invaluable for individuals seeking to support their claims of injury resulting from the accident. By analyzing this information, parties involved can piece together a clearer picture of what transpired.

Why You Need a St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer After a Delivery Truck Crash?

As the volume of online shopping continues to surge, more delivery trucks populate our roads, leading to an unfortunate rise in accidents. These incidents, often involving smaller vehicles or pedestrians, can result in severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Common causes include driver fatigue, distracted driving, tight delivery schedules, and improper loading, highlighting the critical need for increased safety measures and awareness among drivers and the public.

Investigating Truck Accident Cases

Truck accident cases require a detailed and thorough investigation to uncover what really happened and who is responsible. Unlike typical car accidents, these cases often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, maintenance crews, and even manufacturers. A comprehensive investigation may include:

  • Reviewing accident reports to gather initial facts

  • Examining driver logs and “black box” data to check for speeding, fatigue, or violations

  • Analyzing vehicle maintenance records to identify potential mechanical failures

  • Collecting witness statements and surveillance footage for supporting evidence

  • Reconstructing the accident scene to understand the cause and impact

An experienced St. Louis truck accident lawyer uses these findings to build a strong case, holding the responsible parties accountable and pursuing the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.

Reach Out to a St. Louis Truck Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve been injured due to a truck driver’s negligence, you could face costly medical bills and serious injuries. To hold the responsible party accountable, consult a truck accident lawyer in Missouri or Illinois today. 

St. Louis Truck Crash Lawyer FAQs

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about St. Louis truck accident.

How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer in St. Louis?

It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly how much it costs to hire a St. Louis truck accident lawyer, as it varies greatly depending on the case itself, and how complex the case is itself.

What can a St. Louis truck accident attorney do for me?

A skilled truck accident attorney can help by negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf, gathering evidence, and representing you in court if needed. At The Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we strive to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Why is hiring a St. Louis trucking accident attorney different from a car accident lawyer?

Truck accidents are far more complex. A St. Louis truck crash involves federal trucking regulations, Missouri state laws, and multiple liable parties. It's not just the driver; liability often includes the trucking company, its insurer, the cargo loader, or the maintenance vendor. You need an attorney who has specific experience fighting these large corporations, not just a driver's insurance.

What makes truck accident cases different from car accidents in terms of legal representation?

Oftentimes, truck accidents are more complex than a car accident, as they can include multiple parties that can be held liable, such as the trucking company or the manufacturer of the truck. There are also various federal regulations surrounding the ability of the truck driver, and whether or not they were within these guidelines. St. Louis truck accident attorneys are experienced in navigating these complex cases, and can help with a plan of action.

Can I still pursue a claim if I was partially at fault for the truck accident in St. Louis?

According to Missouri law, you can still seek compensation and file a claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident. You might receive lower compensation, however, due to your percentage of fault.

Who is held responsible for a truck accident on I-70 or I-64 in St. Louis?

In Missouri, multiple parties can be held liable. Our trucking accident law firm will investigate every angle. The driver may be at fault for speeding or fatigue, but the trucking company can also be liable for negligent hiring, forcing drivers to break safety rules, or failing to maintain the truck. We work to identify and pursue all at-fault parties to maximize your compensation.

Should I talk to the insurance company without a lawyer after a truck accident?

No. You should always consult a lawyer first, as they are adept at negotiating with insurance adjusters, and know every avenue they will take to pin the fault on you. You should always consult your attorney, and never take calls from the other party’s insurance company.

What role do black box data and logs play in a St. Louis truck accident case?

The black box helps provide crucial information about the truck’s speed, braking, and driving patterns prior to the accident. This data is important for your St. Louis truck accident lawyer.

Can I still pursue a claim if the trucking company or driver doesn’t admit fault?

Yes! Even if the truck driver or trucking company does not admit fault, you can still pursue a claim. Establishing liability in a truck accident claim often involves a thorough investigation that includes gathering evidence from the accident scene.

What if the truck involved in the accident was carrying hazardous materials?

If the truck involved in the accident was carrying hazardous material, the case gets a little more complex due to additional regulations and the dangers associated with the materials. Therefore, it is critical to consult an attorney that is experienced in handling these types of cases.

Can I file a lawsuit against the manufacturer if a defective part caused the truck accident?

Yes, if a defective part or component contributed to the accident, the manufacturer or distributor of that part might be held liable. This involves proving the defect and its contribution to the accident, which requires detailed investigation.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor, not an employee of the trucking company?

Even if the driver is an independent contractor, the trucking company might still be held liable under certain circumstances, especially if they exerted control over the driver’s actions or failed to maintain safety standards.

How do I know if I have a strong case for a truck accident claim?

The strength of your case depends on various factors, including evidence, liability, and the extent of damages. Consulting with a skilled attorney who can assess your case based on the specifics is crucial in understanding its strength and potential outcomes.