According to a KMBC report, a serious tractor-trailer crash resulted in a major fire just outside Kansas City. The Interstate 435 crash is still under a comprehensive investigation by law enforcement. Based on preliminary information, police believe the large truck caught fire first and was the cause of the accident. Our Kansas City trucking accident lawyer can help protect your rights after a major crash.
You Have a Right to Expect Safe Operation from Truckers and Trucking Companies
A fully loaded tractor-trailer in Missouri can weigh as much as 40 tons. The large size of semi-trucks means that they impose an inherent safety risk. For that reason, commercial trucking is governed by comprehensive federal rules enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Here are some of the notable trucking safety standards:
- Hours-of-service limits restrict driving time and mandate rest;
- Drug and alcohol testing imposes zero-tolerance standards;
- Inspection, repair, and maintenance rules require carriers to keep trucks safe; and
- Cargo securement standards address load stability.
You Have the Right to Hold a Negligent Trucker or Trucking Company Liable for a Crash
Missouri is a fault-based truck accident state. In fact, the state follows a pure comparative fault regime. Liability is apportioned among all parties based on the percentage of fault. That means that an injured victim’s recovery is reduced (not barred) by his or her share of negligence. You can hold the person or entity that caused your crash through negligence legally liable for your damages. In trucking accident cases, multiple defendants are common. The driver, motor carrier, shipper, broker, and maintenance vendor may each bear a portion of fault. A thorough investigation is a must.
Note: Truck accident claims are time-sensitive. Under Missouri law, injured victims have five years before the state’s five-year statute of limitations runs.
You Have the Right to Seek Full and Fair Compensation for Your Damages
In Missouri, truck accident victims can seek to be made “whole” through a personal injury claim. In other words, you can pursue compensation for both economic damages and non-economic losses. Truck companies and their insurers may try to pressure you into settling for less. Our Kansas City trucking accident lawyer can help. You may be able to recover damages for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Other medical costs;
- Physical therapy;
- Loss of current and future wages;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Speak to a Top Truck Accident Attorney in Kansas City
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City commercial truck accident attorney is an aggressive, experienced advocate for justice. If you or your loved one was hurt in a serious wreck, we are here to help. Contact us today to set up a free, completely confidential case review. Our firm handles truck accident injury cases in the Kansas City area.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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