Truck Accident Attorneys in Jefferson County

When it comes to vehicles on the road, trucks are the vessel with the capacity to do some of the most serious damage. Their sheer size means that any accidents involving a truck have the potential to cause death or serious injury, and the results can be catastrophic.

If you are involved in an accident with a truck, getting the right legal advice and assistance is essential in helping you to move your case forward. With the right steps, you may be entitled to damages and compensation, which can be a lifesaver in your recovery in the aftermath of the accident.

What Can Cause A Truck Accident?

The large, heavy nature of trucks means that they have the potential to be more susceptible to accidents than cars. There are a number of factors which could play their part in causing a road accident, and these include:

• Failing to maintain the truck: The law states that all trucks must be properly maintained to the appropriate standards before they are allowed on the road. Mandatory checks are carried out on a regular basis, and failure to do this could increase the chances of the truck being involved in an accident. If it can be proven that these checks were neglected or not carried out correctly, you may be able to prove liability on the part of the trucking company or the individual driver. Any broken, faulty, or defective parts of the truck can also prove liability if it can be proven that the person responsible for maintenance of the truck failed in their responsibilities.
• Negligence of the driver: Common causes of distraction include driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, being too tired, texting or using a phone while driving, or completing another task while driving. If any of these can be proven, they could be used as proof of negligence.
• Failure to follow rules and regulations: Missouri law requires all road users to follow rules and regulations. This includes storing and securing loads in the right way and ensuring that trucks are not overloaded and too heavy – this could impact acceleration and braking, as well as impacting the reaction times and stopping distance of the driver. If it is proven that a driver failed to adhere to the rules and regulations, they may be found negligent.

In addition, drivers are required to follow the rules of the road – this includes reacting to stop signs and red lights, sticking to the speed limit, and following local laws and requirements.

• External factors: In some cases, external factors can cause an accident. These may include extreme weather conditions such as high winds, freak storms, or heavy rain. All of these factors have the ability to impact the driver, affect their reaction times, and contribute to an accident.

How Can You Reduce The Risk Of Being Involved In A Truck Accident?

Staying safe on the road can be difficult, but you can boost your chances of staying safe by following a few basic tips:

• Make sure they can see you: Always make the effort to stay out of the blind spot – make sure that you can always be seen in mirrors. A good rule is to stay 20 feet ahead of the truck, or 30 feet behind, and leave a lane width on the driver’s side.
• Take care when passing: Extra care needs to be taken when passing large trucks. The drivers need extra room to brake and adjust their speed, so always make your approach from the left, and remember to signal. Keep your speed consistent to give the driver plenty of time. Avoid the temptation to tailgate; the stopping distance of trucks means that this can be a devastating accident.

What Can I Do?

If you are involved in a truck accident, you may be able to file a lawsuit if it can be proven that the driver was negligent. If this is the case, they will be required to pay damages and compensation for your personal injuries.

Here at Grafe & Batchelor P.C., we have the experience you need to take your case all the way and achieve the justice you deserve. Get in touch today, and see how we can help you take the next steps. Call us at (636) 933-9151.