Why Truck Accidents Are More Complicated Than You Think

Multiple Parties May Be Liable

Unlike typical car accidents, where liability usually falls on one driver, truck accident cases often involve multiple responsible parties, including:

• The truck driver (if they were negligent, fatigued, or under the influence).
• The trucking company (if they failed to maintain the truck or forced the driver into unsafe conditions).
• The truck manufacturer (if a defective part caused the accident).
• The cargo loaders (if improperly loaded cargo led to instability).
• Third-party maintenance providers (if poor truck maintenance played a role).

Determining liability requires an in-depth investigation, and each entity may deny responsibility or try to shift blame to others. (Missouri Revised Statutes – Liability in Truck Accidents)

Federal and State Trucking Regulations Add Complexity

Truck drivers and trucking companies must follow strict federal and state regulations. Violations of these laws can significantly impact your case. Some key regulations include:

• Hours of Service (HOS) rules – Truck drivers are limited in how long they can drive without rest to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
• Weight and cargo restrictions – Overloaded trucks are prone to rollovers and brake failures.
• Truck maintenance requirements – Regular inspections and maintenance are required to keep trucks safe on the road.
• Drug and alcohol testing mandates – Truck drivers must undergo routine substance testing.

A trucker or company violating these laws could prove negligence and strengthen your claim. (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – Trucking Regulations)

Trucking Companies and Their Insurers Fight Hard Against Claims

Unlike passenger car accidents, where insurance companies may settle relatively quickly, trucking companies and insurers aggressively defend against claims. Why? Because truck accident cases often result in massive payouts, sometimes reaching millions of dollars.

Common tactics used by trucking companies to minimize liability include:

• Denying fault or blaming other drivers.
• Destroying or altering logbooks and maintenance records.
• Delaying the claims process to wear down victims.
• Offering lowball settlements before victims understand the full extent of their damages.

An experienced St. Louis truck accident lawyer is essential to counter these strategies and protect your rights. (Missouri Department of Insurance – Truck Accident Claims)

Evidence Disappears Quickly in Truck Accident Cases

One of the biggest challenges in truck accident cases is that evidence can be lost or destroyed if not collected quickly. Critical pieces of evidence include:

• Truck “black box” data – Records speed, braking, and engine performance before the crash.
• Driver logbooks – Shows if the trucker exceeded legal driving limits.
• Maintenance and inspection reports – Indicates whether the truck was in good condition.
• Dashcam or surveillance footage – Can prove liability in many cases.

Trucking companies are not required to keep these records indefinitely, so taking immediate legal action is necessary to preserve key evidence. (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – Evidence Retention Rules)

Missouri’s Comparative Fault Law Can Reduce Your Compensation

Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Trucking companies often use this law to shift blame onto victims and lower their payouts.

For example:

• If you are awarded $500,000 but found 20% at fault, your compensation is reduced to $400,000.

A skilled St. Louis truck accident attorney can counteract these tactics and prove the trucking company bears most responsibility. (Missouri Revised Statutes – Comparative Fault)

What to Do After a Truck Accident in St. Louis

If you’ve been in a truck accident, taking the proper steps can protect your claim and ensure you receive fair compensation: (Missouri Department of Revenue – Accident Reports)

• Call 911 and get medical help – Even if you feel fine, injuries can appear later.
• Document the accident scene – Take photos, get witness statements, and note road conditions.
• Request a copy of the police report – This official record will be crucial in your claim.
• Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters alone – They may twist your words to reduce your compensation.
• Contact a St. Louis truck accident lawyer immediately – The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.

Why You Need a St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents in Missouri are legally complex, and trucking companies will do everything possible to minimize liability. These cases require strong legal representation, from multiple liable parties to aggressive insurance tactics.