A peaceful drive can turn into a mess in an instant. However, all wrecks are not created equal, particularly regarding truck accidents. If you’ve ever driven close to a commercial truck on the highway, you know that the sheer size difference alone makes all the difference. And in the law? The distinctions go even further.
Size, Weight, and Impact—The Physics Change Everything
An 80,000-pound fully loaded semi. A standard car? Around 3,000. That difference in weight isn’t simply a matter of the physical damage. It carries over into the time it takes to stop, how the accident develops, and the type of injury that may ensue. Collisions involving trucks typically result in the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord trauma
- Multi-vehicle pileups
- Extended recovery times
Truck wrecks never leave anything worse than a bumper dent, unlike regular fender benders. That’s why the legal repercussions are so disparate.
There May Be More Than One Party At Fault
One of the most significant differences in truck collision cases is the number of individuals who may be at fault. A standard car collision typically involves one driver versus another. But with trucks?
- The trucking firm may be negligent in assigning infeasible delivery timelines.
- The maintenance team may be blamed for ignoring a faulty brake system.
- The manufacturer of the parts may be liable for a defective tire or coupling system.
- Cargo loaders may have loaded the cargo in such a manner that control was lost.
With such a complex web of liability, it’s crucial to have a thorough investigation and strong representation by experienced truck accident attorneys in Springfield. Their expertise can make all the difference in navigating this intricate legal landscape.
Federal Regulations Apply
In contrast to passenger car drivers, truckers have to abide by stringent federal regulations under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These include:
- How much time a driver can spend behind the wheel
- How are loads tied down
- Vehicle maintenance practices
- Drug and alcohol testing protocols
If these regulations are violated, it can significantly contribute to making a case. Truck accident lawyers in Springfield frequently start by reviewing whether the driver or company violated FMCSA requirements.
Insurance Coverage Is Higher—But So Is the Fight
Trucking firms typically have significantly higher insurance coverage than individual drivers. That should equate to more equitable settlements, but not so much.
With more at stake, insurance companies hold out. They may contest fault, minimize injuries, or stall payments. That’s why it’s so important to have a legal team that knows how these cases are handled—from accident reconstruction to negotiating with multiple insurers.
Missouri Law and Springfield-Specific Considerations
In Missouri’s Springfield, truck accidents are governed by state personal injury statutes with a comparative fault provision. Springfield courts also adhere to rigid timeframes—five years to bring a personal injury action, but just three years if the accident resulted in wrongful death. These strict deadlines underscore the importance of seeking legal guidance promptly after a truck accident.
Why Do You Need Legal Guidance from the Start?
Delaying to ‘see what happens’ can be costly if you’ve been injured in a trucking crash. Evidence can disappear, witness recollections fade, and large trucking companies can swiftly move to protect themselves. This underscores the importance of seeking legal guidance immediately to protect your rights and interests.
Don’t wait. Speak with an experienced team that understands how to defend your rights and get you what you want. If you’re located in Springfield and require assistance following a truck accident collision, now’s the moment to act. The right attorney’s help can make all the difference today.
