Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, St. Louis, Missouri, boasts a rich history and a vibrant present. But like any bustling city, it’s not immune to traffic accidents, especially those involving large trucks.
According to Forbes, when heavy trucks are involved in accidents, they are more likely to collide with passenger vehicles. In fact, a passenger vehicle was involved in 21.5% of heavy truck incidents.
In the event of a St. Louis truck accident, understanding the legal process is essential for securing rightful compensation. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the processes necessary to submit a successful truck accident claim in St. Louis.
St. Louis Truck Accidents: A Closer Look
St. Louis sees its fair share of truck accidents, given its position as a major transportation hub. It’s critical to be aware of Missouri’s high rate of truck accidents.
Most relevant statistics can be retrieved from the Missouri Department of Transportation. According to MoDOT, fatalities involving commercial motor vehicles have increased from 1.33 to 1.34 between 2018 and 2022. In 2022, there were six more fatalities involving a CMV in Missouri than in 2021. This resulted in a mortality rate of 1.34 in 2022, compared to 1.28 in 2021.
In St. Louis, truck accidents account for a significant portion of all motor vehicle collisions. Due to its extensive network of highways, St. Louis experiences a higher rate of truck accidents compared to many other cities in Missouri.
Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
After a truck accident, it’s important to put your health first. Explore the healthcare facilities within the city and never underestimate the significance of promptly seeking medical care for your injuries.
St. Louis is home to numerous world-class medical facilities, including Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis University Hospital. Regardless of where the accident occurs, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
Delaying medical care not only risks your health but also undermines your claim. Medical documents are crucial in determining the degree of your injuries and their link to the accident.
St. Louis Traffic Laws and Regulations
Navigating St. Louis roads requires knowledge of local traffic laws. Understand the specific regulations that may impact your truck accident claim, including any city ordinances unique to St. Louis.
St. Louis also has its own set of traffic laws that govern how vehicles should operate on its roads. Understanding these regulations can be vital when building your case. Knowing rules like truck weight limits on certain streets or traffic signal enforcement can determine fault in your accident.
Collecting Evidence at the Scene
Building a compelling case requires gathering evidence. Learn how to adequately capture the accident site, taking into account elements such as the local climate, road construction, and traffic flow.
Documenting the site of an accident becomes even more important in St. Louis, where the weather can be unpredictable. Take pictures and videos of the accident scene. Consider any circumstances that might have led to the collision, such as poor road maintenance or hidden traffic signs.
Choosing the Right St. Louis Truck Accident Attorney
Selecting the right legal representation can make or break your case. When looking for a St. Louis truck accident lawyer, it’s essential to find an attorney with a proven track record in handling similar cases.
According to TorHoerman Law, you should look for lawyers who are well-versed in Missouri’s traffic laws and regulations. Local knowledge and experience can be invaluable in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Expert lawyers also tend to stay updated with other accidents in the area. For example, KSDK reported a few weeks ago that two people were struck by a truck just outside Busch Stadium. The crash took place at about 4:10 p.m. on South Broadway and Clark Avenue. An investigation is ongoing. Expert attorneys closely follow these cases and draw any useful insights that might help strengthen their client’s case.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident in St. Louis demands a clear understanding of the local landscape. Prioritizing immediate medical attention and learning about St. Louis traffic laws are some of the core steps.
Collecting evidence and enlisting the expertise of an experienced St. Louis truck accident attorney is crucial in securing rightful compensation. Recognizing the unique dynamics of the St. Louis court system adds another layer of complexity to this process.
Overall, preparation and local knowledge can be the keys to achieving a successful outcome when pursuing a truck accident claim.