Kansas City Truck Accident Attorneys Who Will Fight for You After a Crash

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Tractor-trailer accidents can cause severe harm and catastrophic damage and demand a specialized approach. Due to their immense size, tractor-trailer accidents often result in serious injuries and, tragically, fatalities. Seeking compensation in such cases can be complex, necessitating the expertise of a legal professional to ensure fair reparation for you and your loved ones.

Have you suffered severe injuries in a tractor-trailer collision? Contact a Kansas City attorney specializing in truck accidents for a complimentary consultation. Our team at the Goss Law Firm empathizes with the devastating impact of tractor-trailer accidents. We recognize the importance of accessing top-notch medical care to address your injuries. Amidst your stress, our seasoned truck accident lawyers are dedicated to hearing your story and outlining a strategy to secure the compensation you deserve.

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Our Truck Accident Lawyers Are Here to Help You

At the Goss Law Firm, we understand how downright tragic tractor-trailer accidents can be, and getting the best medical care to treat your serious injuries is vital. You may think you have nowhere to turn, but our Truck Accident Lawyers are here for you. You have enough stress to deal with, and our experienced truck accident attorneys will listen to your story and show you how we will work to obtain the benefits you deserve to help you move forward with your life. Partnering with reputable experts, our truck accident attorneys meticulously investigate accidents, establish liability, and pursue accountability from responsible parties.

You can often file a lawsuit against the trucking company and recover more damages. We are ready to go up against large trucking companies to stand up for you.

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Leading Causes of Tractor Trailer Accidents

Tractor-trailer accidents can occur due to various factors; some of the most common causes include:

1. Driver error. Truck drivers’ mistakes (such as speeding, distracted driving, failure to yield, improper lane changes, and fatigue) contribute significantly to accidents.
2. Mechanical failures. Malfunctions in crucial components like brakes, tires, steering systems, and lights can lead to accidents. Lack of proper maintenance or defective parts are often underlying causes.
3. Adverse weather. Rain, snow, ice, fog, and high winds can decrease visibility and traction, making it more challenging for truck drivers to maneuver safely.
4. Improper loading. Incorrectly loaded cargo can affect the balance and stability of the truck, increasing the risk of rollovers or jackknifes. Overloading or uneven distribution of weight are common loading errors.
5. Fatigue. Long hours of driving without adequate rest breaks can lead to driver fatigue, impairing judgment, reaction times, and attention, thereby increasing the likelihood of accidents.
6. Inexperienced drivers. Truck drivers with insufficient training or limited experience may struggle to handle the complexities of operating large commercial vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents.
7. Distracted driving. Distractions such as using cell phones, eating, adjusting the radio, or interacting with onboard technology divert the driver’s attention from the road, potentially causing accidents.
8. Intoxication. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, posing a serious hazard on the road.
9. Tailgating. Following other vehicles too closely reduces the driver’s reaction time. It increases the risk of rear-end collisions, which is particularly problematic for tractor-trailers due to their longer stopping distances.
10. Poor road conditions. Potholes, uneven surfaces, construction zones, and poorly maintained roads can contribute to accidents, especially when combined with high speeds or adverse weather.

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Types of Compensation Available to Truck Accident Victims

As a truck accident victim in Kansas City, Missouri, you may be entitled to various compensation to help you recover from your injuries and losses. These can include:

1. Medical expenses. Coverage for past, current, and future medical bills related to the accident, including hospitalization, surgeries, doctor visits, prescription medications, rehabilitation, therapy, and medical equipment.
2. Lost wages. Compensation for income lost due to missed work during recovery from injuries sustained in the truck accident, including wages, bonuses, and other employment benefits.
3. Property damage. Reimbursement for repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident, such as clothing, electronics, or other belongings.
4. Pain and suffering. Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish resulting from the accident, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life.
5. Disability and impairment. Financial compensation for any permanent disability, impairment, or disfigurement caused by the accident, affecting your ability to work or engage in daily activities.
6. Wrongful death. If a loved one dies as a result of the truck accident, surviving family members may be eligible for compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other related damages through a wrongful death claim.
7. Punitive damages. In cases involving extreme negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct by the at-fault party, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.

Navigating the process of seeking compensation after a truck accident can be complex, requiring legal expertise to protect your rights and receive fair compensation for your losses. Consulting with an experienced truck accident attorney in Kansas City can help you understand your legal options and pursue the maximum compensation available in your case.

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Common Types of Truck Accident Injury in Kansas City, MO

Common types of truck accident injuries in Missouri, as well as in many other regions, include:

1. Whiplash and neck injuries. These are among the most common injuries in any vehicle accident, including truck accidents. The sudden impact of a collision can cause the head to snap forward and backward, resulting in strains, sprains, or more severe neck injuries.
2. Back injuries. Truck accidents can cause various types of back injuries, such as herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, and fractures. These injuries can lead to chronic pain and long-term disability.
3. Head injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are a significant concern in truck accidents, especially if the victim’s head strikes a hard surface or is hit by flying debris. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognitive function, memory, and motor skills.
4. Fractures and broken bones. The impact of a truck collision can exert immense force on the body, leading to fractures and broken bones in the arms, legs, ribs, and other areas.
5. Internal injuries. Blunt force trauma from a truck accident can cause internal injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and bruising. These injuries may not always be immediately apparent and can worsen if left untreated.
6. Spinal cord injuries. Severe truck accidents can result in spinal cord injuries, leading to partial or complete paralysis below the site of the injury. These injuries often have life-altering consequences for the victim.
7. Soft tissue injuries. Soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons can be stretched or torn during a truck accident, resulting in strains, sprains, and other painful conditions.

Truck accident injuries differ from typical car accident injuries due to several factors:

1. Severity. Due to their larger size and weight, trucks can cause more extensive damage and more severe injuries than typical passenger vehicles.
2. Multiple parties involved. Truck accidents often involve numerous parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, and more. Determining liability and pursuing compensation can be more complex in these cases.
3. Regulatory issues. The trucking industry is subject to numerous federal and state regulations governing driver qualifications, service hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading. Violations of these regulations can contribute to accidents and impact liability.
4. Insurance coverage. Commercial trucking companies typically carry higher insurance coverage limits than individual motorists. However, navigating insurance claims and negotiations can still be challenging for accident victims.
5. Specialized legal considerations. Truck accident cases often require specialized legal expertise. An attorney experienced in handling truck accident claims can help victims navigate the legal process and pursue fair compensation.

Understanding Truck Accident Law in Kansas City, MO

If you’re involved in a truck accident in Missouri, there are several key aspects of truck accident law that you should be aware of:

Fault and Liability

Missouri follows a “fault” system for determining liability in auto accidents, including truck accidents. This means that the party responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for compensating the victims for their damages. Establishing fault in a truck accident may involve investigating factors such as driver negligence, truck maintenance issues, or violations of federal or state regulations.

Statute of Limitations

Missouri has a time limit, or statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a truck accident. Typically, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from truck accidents, is five years from the accident date. However, consulting with a personal injury attorney is essential to understand the specific deadlines that apply to your case.

Comparative Fault

Missouri follows a “pure comparative fault” rule, which means that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages from the other at-fault parties. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your total compensation will be reduced by 20%.

Insurance Requirements

Trucking companies in Missouri are required to carry liability insurance coverage with minimum limits set by state law. Due to the increased risks associated with commercial trucking, these insurance policies are typically higher than those required for passenger vehicles. However, insurance coverage can vary depending on factors such as the size and type of the trucking company.

Federal Regulations

In addition to state laws, commercial trucking operations in Missouri are subject to numerous federal regulations established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations govern various aspects of the trucking industry. Violations of these regulations can significantly impact liability in a truck accident case.

Preservation of Evidence

Gathering and preserving evidence is crucial in proving liability and recovering compensation in a truck accident case. This evidence may include accident reports, witness statements, electronic logging device (ELD) data, truck maintenance records, and surveillance footage. It’s essential to act quickly to ensure that valuable evidence is not lost or destroyed.

Legal Representation

Truck accident cases can be complex, involving multiple parties and insurance companies. It’s highly advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney specializing in truck accident litigation. A skilled attorney can help protect your rights, navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.

Understanding these critical aspects of truck accident law in Missouri can help you protect your rights and take appropriate action if you’re involved in a truck accident. Consulting with a qualified attorney is the best course of action if you have specific questions or concerns about your case.

Crash Statistics for Commercial Truck Accidents

The Missouri DOT has released a statistics report on common crash factors below:

• In 2022, there were 2,456 general liability claims, a 60% increase over 2021.
• The most common characteristic of fatal crashes has been determined to be aggressive driving.
• In 2021, there were 156 fatalities involving commercial motor vehicles.
• There has been a steady increase in deaths over the last five years
• More than 4,000 people die in accidents with tractor-trailers each year
• Every 16 minutes, a person is killed in an accident with a tractor-trailer in the United States.
• Every year, there are approximately 500,000 tractor-trailer accidents
• 98% of fatalities in truck accidents befall occupants of smaller vehicles
• 27% of all truckers in collisions have received previous speeding charges
• Mechanical defects contribute to many tractor-trailer accidents in the U.S.

According to the Missouri DOT, the most common characteristic of fatal crashes is aggressive driving, by about 25%. The total number of fatalities involving commercial vehicles

If you have been injured in an accident with a tractor-trailer that wasn’t your fault, the Goss Law Firm is ready to help. Contact our office today at 816-888-5000 to schedule a free, no-risk legal consultation.

Timing is essential after a tractor-trailer accident, so call us immediately. Give us a call today. We are here for you, and we want to listen to your story and help you determine the best course of action during this difficult time.

Know Your Rights as a Truck Accident Victim in Kansas City

As a truck accident victim in Missouri, you have several legal rights that are designed to protect your interests and help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Some of these rights include:

1. Right to Compensation: You have the right to seek compensation for damages resulting from the truck accident. These damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related losses.
2. Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to retain legal representation to advocate for your interests and navigate the legal process on your behalf. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation.
3. Right to File a Lawsuit: If you cannot reach a fair settlement with the at-fault parties or their insurance companies, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit in civil court. Through a lawsuit, you can seek compensation for your damages through a trial by jury.
4. Right to a Fair Investigation: You have the right to a thorough and unbiased investigation of the truck accident. This investigation may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, examining the accident scene, and analyzing relevant documentation, such as police reports and truck maintenance records.
5. Right to Hold Negligent Parties Accountable: If the truck driver, trucking company, or other parties involved in the accident acted negligently or recklessly, resulting in your injuries, you have the right to hold them accountable for their actions. This may include proving that the at-fault parties breached their duty of care and caused your injuries as a result.
6. Right to Pursue Compensation for Future Damages: In addition to compensation for current damages, such as medical expenses and lost wages, you have the right to seek compensation for future damages that you are reasonably expected to incur due to the accident. This may include future medical treatment, ongoing therapy, lost earning capacity, and other long-term consequences of your injuries.
7. Right to Privacy and Confidentiality: You have the right to privacy and confidentiality throughout the legal process. Strict confidentiality rules bind your attorney and will work to protect your privacy while pursuing your case.
8. Right to Appeal: If you are dissatisfied with the outcome of your case, you have the right to appeal the decision, subject to specific legal requirements and deadlines.

Understanding your legal rights as a truck accident victim in Missouri is essential for protecting your interests and pursuing fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Suppose you have questions about your rights or need assistance with your case. In that case, it’s advisable to consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who can provide guidance and advocacy tailored to your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Defending the Rights of Truck Accident Victims in Kansas City

You never understand the pain and uncertainty of the aftermath of a tractor-trailer accident. At The Goss Law Firm, we have seen those catastrophic effects firsthand. This knowledge fuels our compassion and drives us to guide truck accident victims and their families through difficult times every step of the way.

Free consultation: Call or complete the contact form below to learn how we can help.

If you or someone you love have suffered a serious injury from a tractor-trailer accident, let The Goss Law Firm explain your rights and legal options. Call us today at 816-888-5000 to schedule your free consultation.