Experienced Missouri Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers
In Springfield and the surrounding Missouri communities, 18-wheeler injury victims in need of compensation find help at Whiteaker & Wilson, PC d/b/a Law Office of Stuart P. Huffman. Our attorneys leverage experience and strong dedication to client interests in order to pursue maximum compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other costs.
In truck accident cases, those costs are particularly high. The extreme size of a semi-truck compared to that of a car means that the injuries that result when the two collide are going to be catastrophic. Our focus is on helping victims of catastrophic injuries, such as brain injuries and trauma, back and neck injuries, and lost limbs.
Investigating Truck Accidents To Build Strong Cases
Our experience means we have handled many truck accident cases before. We know the range of causes that lead to these accidents, many of which are tied directly to a truck driver or trucking company failing to follow the regulations that govern their industry. Accidents are caused by drivers spending too many hours on the road, often because of pressure placed on them by their employers. They are caused by poorly maintained trucks or overloaded trucks.
In every case, we conduct a thorough investigation to find out exactly what caused the accident. We gather all of the facts and use them to build a strong legal strategy. While settlements are certainly strived for, the reality of these cases means that we need to rely on our background as trial attorneys. If needed, we will go to court to make your case a success.
To learn more, please visit our truck accidents information center.
Answers To Common Questions About Missouri Truck Accidents
Below, we’ve answered questions commonly asked by truck accident victims and their families.
What makes trucking accident cases so unique?
When compared to standard auto accidents involving two passenger vehicles, trucking accidents really stand apart. Here are some reasons why:
- Severity of injuries: Trucking accidents often result in severe or catastrophic injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks compared to regular vehicles.
- The need for thorough investigation: Determining the cause of a trucking accident requires a comprehensive investigation. This includes analyzing driver logs, maintenance records and electronic data from the truck to piece together what happened.
- Multiple potentially liable parties: These cases typically involve several parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company and various insurance companies. Each party may have its own interests and legal representation, complicating the legal process.
- A complex legal landscape: Federal and state regulations governing the trucking industry add another layer of complexity to these cases.
- High stakes: Victims may need every penny they can get in compensation to pay for a lifetime of expensive medical costs and other damages. At the same time, insurers are ready to fight truck accident claims because they stand to lose a lot of money from these high-value commercial insurance policies. The stakes are high for both sides.
For all these reasons and more, the attorney you hire really matters. You’ll want to work with a highly experienced injury lawyer like those at our firm.
What are the advantages of hiring a local truck accident attorney?
When you’re involved in a truck accident, having a local attorney by your side can make a significant difference in your case. Here are some key benefits of hiring a truck accident attorney from your area:
First, a local attorney knows the ins and outs of the local courts and how they handle trucking accident cases. Therefore, they know what to expect throughout the process and can tailor your legal strategy accordingly.
Second, they have insight into insurance company practices and tactics. This knowledge can help in negotiating fair settlements and ensuring that your rights are protected.
Finally, they offer convenience and a personal touch. When your attorney is located nearby, it’s easier to have face-to-face meetings. This personal touch can provide a sense of comfort and make communication more straightforward compared to handling everything over the phone or the internet. Our attorneys are often able to visit clients in their homes or hospital rooms by request.
How much is my truck accident case worth?
Unfortunately, the answer to that question is: It depends. The value of a truck accident claim is typically directly proportional to the severity of your injuries, whether you suffered long-term or permanent disability, whether you share any fault for the crash, and the policy limits of the truck company’s insurance policy. Our attorneys may be able to provide an accurate estimate of the value of your claim during your free initial consultation.
What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
First and foremost, get medical care, including going to the hospital if you are seriously injured.
Insurance companies will be working swiftly and aggressively to shift blame away from the truck driver and onto you. Therefore, you can’t afford to be careless with what you say. Whether it is at the accident site or elsewhere, do not discuss the crash with anyone before you have consulted an experienced attorney.
Also, do not post about the crash or talk about your injuries on social media. In short, do not give the other side any opportunities to use your words against you. Instead, let our attorneys worry about what to say while you focus on taking care of yourself and your loved ones.
Get Started With A Free Initial Consultation
We work on contingency. That means you pay attorney fees only if your case is successful. For a free initial consultation with a Springfield truck accidents attorney, call us at 417-413-5858 or send us an e-mail.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertisements.