Big Rig Crash in Missouri? A Kansas City Lawyer Can Fight for You
In seconds, a semi-truck accident can change your life forever. You may face a long hospital stay, loss of income, and ongoing pain and suffering. If you or someone you care about was injured in a truck accident in Missouri, you don’t have to figure it out alone. A Skilled Kansas City truck accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
Big Rigs Are Not Just Cars
Big rigs or mega trucks can weigh 80,000 pounds! An average vehicle is around 3,000 pounds. That weight difference is going to make a crash with a truck a heck of a lot worse than a normal car crash. When a big rig and a car collide, it’s basically a guarantee the car is going to be wrecked. A big rig also takes longer to stop and turn than a car. When the driver is tired, drinking, or distracted, the chance of a wreck goes up.
There is an unlimited number of possible reasons for wrecks to occur such as:
- The commercial driver was not well rested enough to safely operate the truck
- The truck was not well maintained
- The driver was following too closely or speeding
- The load was not secured well enough
If you are in a wreck you probably won’t have any idea what caused the wreck. An effective attorney will have a procedure for investigating what happened to try and determine who, or what, might be at fault.
Why You Should Hire a Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer
Large truck accidents tend to produce large claims. Trucking companies have their own teams of attorneys and insurance adjusters whose job it is to minimize your claim payout. When you hire a Kansas City truck accident attorney, you obtain someone that can:
- Stand up to large insurance firms.
- Gather proof, like driver logs and truck records.
- Work with experts who can show how the crash happened.
- Make sure you meet all legal deadlines.
Having the right lawyer can mean the difference between a low offer and the fair pay you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Big Rig Crash
If you are hurt in a truck crash, here are steps you should take:
- Call 911 so police and medics come to the scene.
- Get medical care, even if you feel okay. Some injuries take time to show.
- Collect proof if you can—take photos and note names of witnesses.
- Do not talk to the truck company or their insurer alone.
- Call a truck accident lawyer before you sign anything.
Many people feel lost after a wreck. A lawyer will guide you in the legal process in each step of the way.
How Truck Crash Claims Work
A big rig crash claim starts with an investigation. Your lawyer will look at:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Truck driver logs
- Maintenance records
- Data from the truck’s computer
This helps prove how the wreck happened. Next, your lawyer will work out how much your case is worth.
You may be able to claim:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost pay and lost work chances
- Pain and suffering
- Costs to fix or replace your car
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
Most claims settle out of court. But if the trucking company will not pay fair damages, your lawyer can take the case to trial.
Common Injuries in Truck Crashes
Truck wrecks often cause life-changing injuries, such as:
- Broken bones
- Back and neck injuries
- Head injuries and brain trauma
- Burns or cuts
- Spinal cord injuries
- Loss of limbs
Some injuries need surgery or rehab for months or years. A lawyer will fight to get you money to cover all these costs.
Who Can Be Liable for a Big Rig Crash?
Many people think only the truck driver is to blame. But often, more than one party is at fault.
These may include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The truck owner
- The company that loaded the cargo
- The parts maker if a part failed
A Kansas City truck accident lawyer will look at every angle to find out who is liable.
Time Limits to File a Claim
In Missouri, the statute of limitations is generally 5 years from the date of the accident to file a claim. If you do not file the claim within that time limit, you could lose your right to recover anything. That said, it is always better to file earlier, instead of waiting for 5 years. The sooner you act, the more fresh evidence that is available for you to collect.
What Makes Truck Crash Cases Hard?
Truck wreck cases are harder than car accidents because:
- Truckers must follow many state and federal rules.
- Truck companies keep detailed records that may be hard to get.
- Injuries are often severe, so claims are high-value.
- Many insurance companies get involved.
These reasons are why you should have a lawyer who has handled truck crashes before.
How Much Does a Truck Crash Lawyer Cost?
Most Kansas City truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee. This means you pay nothing up front. The lawyer only gets paid if you win your case or reach a settlement. This fee is a set part of the money you recover. Before you hire a lawyer, you will sign an agreement that shows how the fee works.
Why Choose Us to Handle Your Truck Crash Case
Our team has years of experience fighting for crash victims. We know how to build strong cases and deal with trucking firms and their insurers.
When you trust us with your case, you get:
- Free case reviews
- No fees unless we win
- Help getting medical care
- Clear updates at every step
- A team that treats you with respect
We are ready to fight for the full pay you need to rebuild your life.
Call Now for a Free Case Review
If a big rig crash has upended your life, you do not have to face the road ahead by yourself. Call us today. Let an experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer fight for your rights and help you get back on your feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do right after a big rig crash in Missouri?
First, call 911 to report the crash. Get medical help. Take photos of the scene if you can. Get names of any witnesses. Do not talk to the truck driver’s insurance company on your own. Reach out to a truck accident lawyer as soon as you can.
How much is my truck crash claim worth?
Every case is different. Your claim value depends on medical costs, lost pay, pain, and how the crash affects your life. A lawyer can look at your case and give you a better idea of what it may be worth.
Who can be held responsible for my injuries?
More than one party could be at fault. This can include the driver, the trucking company, the owner of the truck, the company that loaded the cargo, or the maker of faulty parts.
How long do I have to file a truck crash lawsuit in Missouri?
You usually have 5 years from the date of the wreck to file. It’s best to start your claim early. This helps protect your right to fair pay and makes it easier to gather proof.
What does it cost to hire a Kansas City truck accident lawyer?
Most truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee. You pay nothing unless you win. If you recover money, the lawyer gets a set part of that amount.
