18 WHEELER ACCIDENTS

St. Louis, Kansas City, and Jefferson City, Missouri

Kansas City Truck Crash? Call The Bradley Law Firm today.

A fully loaded 18 wheeler can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. Compared to the weight of a standard automobile, 18 wheelers are gigantic. Consequently, when an 18 wheeler accident occurs with another car or motorcycle, occupants suffer fatal injuries 98% of the time.

18 wheeler accidents require the expertise of a truck accident attorney. Often, negligence plays a role in the accident and victims are entitled to compensation for damages sustained. Statutes of limitations exist, so don't hesitate to contact an attorney after your accident to ensure your family obtains their deserved compensation, which can include:

Medical expenses, including doctor fees, hospital visits, prescription drug costs, physical therapy and ambulance rides
Loss of earnings
Diminished earning capacity
Loss of enjoyment of life
Loss of companionship and funeral costs, in the event of wrongful death
Disfigurement
Rental car costs
Car repairs and/or replacement

Fatigue and Drugs in 18 Wheeler Accidents

Some trucking companies impose unrealistic deadlines on their drivers. In order to stay in good favor with their employers, truck drivers often break trucking regulations.

The most common violations are driving under the influence of drugs, speeding, and not properly maintaining a driver log. When this occurs, the driver is often overworked and using stimulants to maintain awareness. Not only is this illegal, but fatigue increases the chance of an 18 wheeler accident.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 31% of all 18 wheeler accidents are due to driver fatigue. Truck drivers have also been known to use amphetamines to keep themselves alert while driving long distances to meet difficult deadlines.

18 Wheeler Accident Injuries

Nationwide, over 5,000 fatalities and 100,000 injuries occur every year due to truck collisions. Common serious injuries include:

18 wheeler accidents are tragic events that can quickly deplete a family's emotional strength and pocketbook. You need an 18 wheeler accident attorney that can investigate your case and aggressively pursue fair and just compensation for your or your loved one's injuries.

At The Bradley Law Firm, we have been handling truck accident cases in the St. Louis and Kansas City, Missouri area for over 30 years. Please contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation. We also serve residents of Jefferson City, Columbia, Springfield, and rural parts of Missouri.