The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates1 that there were approximately 104,000 people injured in accidents involving large trucks. There are a number of ways in which truck accident cases differ significantly from other types of motor vehicle accidents. Some of these are detailed below.
Truck drivers and trucking companies are subject to federal and state regulations to which non-commercial vehicles are not.
Every driver on the road is required to have a driver’s license and follow traffic laws. People who drive commercial vehicles are subject to additional federal2 and state regulations that affect everything from minimum standards for a driver’s physical health to the amount of reflective material that must be placed on a truck’s trailer. If a truck or truck driver is not in compliance with these regulations and is involved in an accident, it may result in legal liability. As a result, it is important to retain an attorney familiar with these regulations.
Trucking Companies are Often Liable for the Negligence of their Drivers
One of the fundamental doctrines of Missouri tort law is that employers are often responsible for the tortious conduct of their employees. As a result, individuals who are injured in accidents caused by truck driver negligence often file a claim against the trucking company, rather than the driver of the vehicle.
Trucks are Prone to Certain Types of Accidents to Which Other Vehicles are Not
Semi-tucks and other large commercial vehicles are often articulated, meaning that they consist of multiple segments that are connected by a movable joint. While this type of construction makes these vehicles more maneuverable, it also makes them vulnerable to jackknife accidents. In addition, their high center of gravity means that trucks are more at risk of rollover accidents than smaller vehicles.
Contact a St. Louis Truck Accident Attorney Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Individuals who have been injured in truck accidents involving commercial vehicles are often entitled to significant compensation under Missouri law. The St. Louis truck accident lawyers of The Bruning Law Firm are dedicated to helping truck accident victims hold those responsible for their injuries accountable through the legal system. To schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers, please call our office today at 314-735-8100.
LET US GET STARTED ON YOUR ST. LOUIS CAR ACCIDENT CASE TODAY
If you or someone you care about has been seriously injured in an auto accident, contact The Bruning Law Firm today. We provide the comprehensive, professional legal representation you deserve at a time when you need it most.
Call or contact our office online today to schedule a free consultation.
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