Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyers in St. Louis
Truck Accident FAQs
- How common are fatal truck accidents?
- I was recently involved in a traffic accident with a large truck. What should I do next?
- Am I seeking compensation from the truck driver or the trucking company?
- Is it possible that the truck driver was inattentive to the road because he or she was under the influence of an illicit substance?
Q: How common are fatal truck accidents?
A: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reveals that, on average, large trucks are involved in more fatal accidents than passenger cars are. Trucks do not handle as well as smaller vehicles do, particularly during adverse weather when there are dangerous road conditions.
Q: I was recently involved in a traffic accident with a large truck. What should I do next?
A: First of all, after any truck accident it is important to get immediate medical attention after the accident. After that, you should write down all pertinent information regarding the accident. Specifically, it is important that you make a written record of the circumstances under which the accident took place: the time, place, what you were doing (such as, how fast you were going, the direction you were traveling, and what you were doing…changing lanes, making a turn, idle at a stop sign, etc), and what the truck driver was doing.
Q: Am I seeking compensation from the truck driver or the trucking company?
A: Possibly both. It all depends on the details of your accident, and what was determined to be the cause of it. For instance, if the truck driver made an illegal left-hand turn and struck your vehicle, then the truck driver is at fault. If your vehicle was hit by an improperly maintained truck, equipped with faulty brake lights or worn brakes for example, then the trucking company can be held accountable for your accident. In addition, trucking companies are liable for the actions of their drivers.
Q: Is it possible that the truck driver was inattentive to the road because he or she was under the influence of an illicit substance?
A: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety cites past studies that have shown that 12 percent of truck drivers test positive for over-the-counter stimulants to help keep themselves alert and awake while driving large trucks. However, truck drivers have also tested positive for illicit drugs and alcohol too. Also keep in mind that truck drivers are disqualified from driving with a commercial driver's license if their BAC is above 0.04%, which is just half the legal limit that all other drivers must adhere to. Truck drivers who have been in an accident are sometimes required to submit to alcohol/drug testing afterwards. If you believe that the truck driver that caused your accident was under the influence, don't hesitate to call our Missouri truck crash attorneys so that the proper steps can be taken to expose negligence.
