Truck Accident Lawyer Joplin

We’ve Recovered Millions for Past Clients

Truck accident cases cause big headaches, almost as big as the injuries suffered by the people hurt in the crashes. Trucking companies are infamous for fighting claims and trying to dodge any liability for what happened. Luckily, Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. in Joplin is known for fighting them head-on and finding effective ways to reach a successful verdict or settlement.

We know what it takes to hold negligent truck drivers and trucking companies liable. Find out what we mean by dialing (888) 287-1046 and requesting an initial consultation with our firm.

Why Do Truck Accidents Happen?

The cause of many truck accidents is simple yet dangerous: truck driver negligence. When a trucker is not paying attention to the road or their own ability to drive safely, a catastrophic accident can follow.

Different forms of truck driver negligence can include:

• Driving while exhausted: It is not unusual for a truck driver to work a 14-hour shift with only 3 of those hours not spent behind the wheel. Exhaustion can make them drive as if they are drunk, which means they have horrible reaction times, poor vehicle control, etc.
• Driving while impaired: To fight exhaustion, some truckers take stimulants to keep themselves awake. While under the effects of a stimulant, a trucker will experience more unsafe symptoms, like an inability to focus. Once the stimulant wears off, the exhaustion can come back tenfold.
• Overloading a trailer: Placing too much product in a trailer will make it extremely difficult to control. The braking distance of an overloaded trailer will also increase, which makes it more likely that the trucker will cause a rear-end collision.
• Speeding: Breaking the speed limit is never safe, especially for truck drivers with multi-ton vehicles. The faster a truck travels, the more distance it will need to come to a complete stop.

In addition to driver negligence, mechanical failures and maintenance issues often play a role in truck accidents. Trucks require regular upkeep to ensure that all systems function correctly. Failure to maintain brakes, tires, and steering mechanisms can result in disastrous outcomes on the road. Furthermore, inadequate training of truck drivers can lead to improper handling of these large vehicles, especially in challenging weather conditions such as rain or snow, increasing the risk of accidents.

Can You Sue the Trucking Company, Too?

Are you allowed to sue a trucking company for a truck accident? Maybe. It depends on the employment classification of the truck driver in many cases.

A truck driver who is an independent contractor usually cannot pass liability for a crash upward to their employer. But a trucker who is an employee can. If we find out that the truck driver who hit you is an employee or reasonably could be considered one, then we can talk about suing the trucking company for additional or uncovered damages.

How Joplin's Roads Impact Truck Accidents

The roads and highways in Joplin, MO play a significant role in the frequency and severity of truck accidents. Major routes like Interstate 44 and Highway 71 are often congested with commercial traffic, increasing the likelihood of accidents involving large trucks. The condition of these roads, combined with factors such as weather changes, can exacerbate risks.

In Joplin, local challenges include road construction and seasonal weather conditions that can impact driving conditions. Rain and snow can make roads slippery, while construction zones often feature abrupt lane changes and reduced speed limits, increasing the risk of driver error. Our legal team is well-versed in these local issues and uses this knowledge to build stronger cases. We also work closely with accident reconstruction experts familiar with the area's geography and traffic patterns to provide detailed and compelling evidence in support of your claim.

FAQs About Truck Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?

Immediate steps post-accident involve ensuring safety first. Move to a safe location and check for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as some symptoms may arise later. Collect and exchange information with the truck driver, including name, contact details, and insurance information. Document the scene with photos or videos, capturing vehicle positions, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Avoid discussing fault or making statements to the trucking company’s representatives until consulting with a truck accident lawyer at Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. who can help protect your interests.

What Are Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Joplin?

In Joplin, common causes of 18-wheeler accidents include unfamiliarity with local roads, mechanical defects, and driver fatigue. Long hours behind the wheel can diminish a driver's reaction time and decision-making abilities, leading to serious accidents. Additionally, mechanical issues due to inadequate maintenance can lead to brake failures or tire blowouts. With congested highways such as I-44, navigating traffic safely requires utmost concentration, and any miscalculations can have severe consequences. Our team at Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. investigates all potential causes to hold the appropriate parties accountable.

How Does Missouri Law Impact My Truck Accident Claim?

Missouri follows a comparative fault rule, which means your compensation in a truck accident claim may be reduced by your degree of fault. This emphasizes the importance of building a strong claim to minimize allegations of shared liability. Missouri law also dictates specific filing deadlines for personal injury claims, typically within five years from the accident date. Understanding these laws is crucial, and our attorneys at Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Can I Recover Damages for Emotional Distress After a Truck Accident?

Yes, emotional distress is a recognized form of non-economic damage in Missouri truck accident claims. Experiencing a severe accident can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Documenting your emotional and psychological condition is vital, and seeking treatment from mental health professionals provides important evidence of your suffering. At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., we work to include these damages in your compensation package, ensuring that all aspects of your trauma are addressed.

How Can a Lawyer Assist Me in My Truck Accident Claim?

Having a truck accident attorney from Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. by your side means gaining a strategic advantage when dealing with complex truck accident claims. Our lawyers handle the intricate details of your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. We use our resources to gather evidence, consult experts, and craft persuasive arguments that advocate for your full recovery. Our no-fee-unless-you-win policy also provides financial peace of mind, allowing us to focus on achieving a favorable outcome.

Call Our Joplin Truck Accident Lawyers Now

Taking on trucking companies is second nature to our Joplin truck accident lawyers. We spend every day looking for new ways to take on big insurance companies and the corporations they represent. The objective is always the same, though: get as much money for our clients as possible.

For a free case evaluation, dial (888) 287-1046 now.