Big Rig Wreck in Missouri? A Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Win Compensation

A truck accident can turn your life upside down. Truck accidents are not automobile accidents. They can leave you injured, traumatized, and not able to decide what to do next. If that is what has happened to you in Missouri, and you’re anywhere near Kansas City, you do not need to face it alone. An experienced personal injury attorney in Kansas City familiar with handling the wreck of a big rig can assist. You can potentially recover money for your injuries, lost wages, and suffering. But you must move quickly and select the proper assistance. Let’s go through what you need to learn and what to do following an accident involving a big truck.

What Is a Big Rig Wreck?

An 18-wheeler or a semi-truck is also known as a big rig. They are large and heavy. When they crash, the wreck can be much worse than a standard automobile wreck. Big rig wrecks can happen on highways, city streets, or rural roads. Some of the usual culprits are:

• Driver fatigue
• Speeding
• Poor brakes or tire blowouts
• Improper loads
• Bad weather
• Distractions

Sometimes the driver is not responsible. Perhaps the truck company or a component manufacturer was negligent.

Why Big Rig Crashes Are So Much More Perilous

Big rigs weigh many times over 80,000 pounds. When one hits a car, it’s massive power. That usually causes:

• Head injury
• Back or neck injury
• Broken bones
• Burns
• Loss of a limb
• Death

These kinds of injuries often need continued care. You may not be able to work for weeks or months. Bills come fast. That’s where legal practice help comes in.

Missouri Laws and Truck Crashes

Missouri has laws that protect victims of crashes. If a truck firm or truck driver was not careful, you can sue for damages. Missouri is governed by a law known as “pure comparative fault.” That means:

• You can still get paid even if you were partly responsible.
• Your settlement is reduced by your share of fault.
• Suppose that you were 20% at fault and you got $100,000. You get $80,000.

You have just five years to file a personal injury claim in Missouri. But for wrongful death, it is three years. That is forever, but it passes rapidly—especially when you’re recovering.

What to Do After a Big Rig Crash

Right after the accident, you’re likely to be in shock. But what you do may make a difference in your case. This is what to do:

1. Call 911

Call for help and report the accident. You want a police report.

2. Get Medical Care

Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, see a doctor. Some injuries don’t show up right away.

3. Take Photos

If you can, take pictures of the crash site, damage, and injury.

4. Get Info

Try to get the name of the driver, the truck license plate number, and the name of the company.

5. Don’t Speak to Insurance Adjusters

They will attempt to have you say something that will hurt your case. Don’t talk until you have consulted with an attorney.

You don’t need to battle the trucking firm by yourself. An attorney with experience in big rig accidents is familiar with making a solid case. Here’s how they assist:

Collect Evidence

They gather truck records, logs, and camera evidence.

Speak to Experts

They consult with doctors, engineers, and crash experts to make sense of what occurred.

Negotiate With Insurance

Your attorney works with the other side’s insurance company. They negotiate a good offer.

Take It to Court if Necessary

If the offer is inadequate, your lawyer can take the case to court.

What Can You Get Money For?

A Kansas City attorney can help you seek:

• Medical bills
• Physical therapy
• Lost wages
• Future lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Damage to a vehicle
• Wrongful death (for loved ones)

Each case is different. A lawyer can tell you what your case might be worth based on the facts.

What Makes Truck Cases More Difficult

Truck wrecks are not like the average automobile collisions. Here’s why they are more complex:

• There may be additional individuals to hold responsible: the driver, the company, a parts manufacturer.
• There are additional rules, like federal trucking laws.
• The trucking companies have lawyers and high coverage.
• Evidence can disappear in an instant if it is not preserved.

A seasoned lawyer knows how to get moving fast, protect your rights, and put fault on all the correct individuals.

Should You Take the Initial Settlement?

Usually not. Early offers are usually too low. Insurance companies do not want to pay out more than necessary. If you take an early check, you could waive your right to ask for more—even in case of new problems. Your lawyer can examine the offer and advise you. Often, they can negotiate a higher sum that will cover your costs.

You Don’t Pay Unless You Win

Most personal injury lawyers work on a “contingency fee.” That is:

• You do not pay anything up front.
• They are paid only if you receive money.
• The fee is deducted from your award or settlement.

This payment system makes it possible for people to get legal help without financial concern.

Why Hire a Kansas City Lawyer?

A Kansas City lawyer is experienced with local courts, judges, and insurance companies. They understand Missouri law and have experience with cases like yours.

Hire somebody who:

• Confirmed truck accident results
• Good ratings
• Effective communication skills
• A focus on injury law

You can meet with most lawyers for free to talk about your case. Ask questions and see if they’re a good fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do I have to file a claim after a Missouri big rig crash?

You have three years for personal injury and five years for wrongful death. Don’t wait. It’s always best to start early before evidence is lost or becomes clouded.

2. Am I still eligible for money if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Missouri uses a “pure comparative fault” rule, which allows you to receive money even if you are partially at fault. Your share just gets reduced.

3. Is the truck driver working for a large corporation?

Your lawyer can sue the company. They could be liable for improper training, too many drivers on the road, or a lack of proper maintenance.

4. How much does a truck accident lawyer cost? 

The majority of lawyers don’t charge a fee. They work on a contingency basis, so they only receive payment if you win.

5. What if I cannot work because of my injuries?

You can ask for money to compensate for lost wages and future earnings. Your lawyer can record how the accident hurt your career. 

Don’t Wait—Talk to a Lawyer Now

A semi truck collision can turn your world around in an instant. But with the proper assistance, you can regain control. A Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer can assist you in fighting for the compensation you deserve to recover, pay expenses, and get moving. Time is of the essence. Evidence erodes. Insurance companies move quickly. You need to as well. If you’ve been in a truck crash in Missouri, contact a local lawyer today. Your first talk is free—and it could be the first step toward justice.