St. Louis Auto Accidents Involving Trucks Merging

Trucks are involved in thousands of accidents each year, and because of their size, those that share the road with them often get caught in the collision.

Truck drivers are essential to the U.S. economy, but statistics show that trucks impose a higher risk when on the road. Trucks are involved in thousands of accidents each year, and because of their size, those that share the road with them often get caught in the collision.

One of the biggest issues when it comes to trucks involves merging lanes. Trucks are very difficult to handle, and a move that would be somewhat simple with a regular vehicle depends on the skill and focus of the truck driver. One slip can potentially have devastating results.

Why These Accidents Happen

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Administration, 4,889 cases of large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes in 2017 alone. Moreover, 3,212,347 collisions caused injuries to the people involved. In Missouri, there have been 111 fatal crashes involving trucks in 2017.

The reasons these types of accidents happen may vary. Sometimes, it’s because the truck driver simply was not paying enough attention when merging lanes. Driver fatigue may be a culprit as truckers drive for long hours every day. Inattentive driving, such as checking the smartphone while behind the wheel may also be a reason.

However, it can also be a cause of the truck’s anatomy. Larger trucks typically have four large blind spots around them, two of which are on the side of the truck. It’s possible for a trucking driver trying to merge to be unable to see other vehicles on the road. While it’s the truck driver’s responsibility to check these blind spots before they make their move, passenger cars also need to show a higher degree of caution when on the road with a truck.

What Should You Do If You Were Involved in a Truck Accident?

If you were hit while a truck driver was trying to merge lanes, you may have enough for an injury claim. However, these cases are often complex, so it’s best to take your case to a St. Louis car accident attorney for a free consultation.

Essentially, if the truck driver was negligent and did not check their blind spot prior to merging lanes, then they could be held liable for their mistakes. But your actions will be brought into question in the proceedings too – how close were you to the truck? Remember, passenger vehicles are also required to be more careful when on the road with a truck, and if it is discovered you weren’t, you may also have contributed to the collision.

And according to Missouri law, there isn’t always just one culprit. The pure comparative fault system essentially means all parties involved in the collision can be held liable in these cases and will be given a percentage of guilt.