Commercial trucking plays an essential role in Missouri’s economy, but the number of trucks on the road also means that trucking accidents are a concern. Trucking accidents are among the most devastating vehicle accidents. Due to their size, truck accidents cause severe injuries, property damage, and death across Missouri each year. If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a trucking accident in Missouri, you should know about the state’s trucking laws and what to do after the accident.
Important Trucking Laws in Missouri
Understanding some of the various Missouri trucking accident laws can have a great impact on your case. For example, a truck driver’s violation of state law may mean that he or she holds most or all of the fault, ensuring that you receive more compensation for any damages incurred due to the accident. Additionally, laws can vary depending on the type of business the trucking company conducts, such as interstate commerce or only operating within Missouri state lines. Keep in mind that every case may be different and state laws can change, so you should always consult with a qualified trucking accident attorney to discuss the details of your case.
Liability
Determining fault is one of the most important – and complicated – components of any accident. Because of Missouri’s comparative fault system, you may be found partially at fault for the accident. However, that doesn’t mean that doesn’t mean that you aren’t entitled to seek compensation. In fact, the opposite is true, and you should never accept a low settlement offer just because you may have been partially at fault. Keep in mind that there are many components involved with trucking accidents, and the driver, trucking company, and truck manufacturer may all be held liable in certain cases.
Insurance
Like your car insurance, trucking companies are required to insure their trucks based on minimum requirements. The Missouri Department of Transportation requires trucking companies to cover bodily injury and property damage, and depending on the type of accident and how many people are involved, that insurance minimum can be in the millions.
Safety
Truck drivers and the companies they work for are held to strict safety standards that must be followed.
- Driving hours and break periods
- Road tests and certifications
- Truck identification
- Height, length, and weight limitations
Driver Requirements
Missouri truck drivers are required to meet certain qualifications, such as age, physical ability, knowledge of operating the vehicle, and more.
Inspections
Missouri trucking companies are required by law to keep detailed records of inspections before and after every trip. Completing proper safety inspections is critical, and a failed inspection may help prove your claim against a trucking company. Trucking companies are required to inspect components including brakes, lights, tires, steering, etc.
DUI
Truck drivers are held to stricter standards in Missouri when it comes to driving under the influence. Additionally, the penalties for driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated carry heavier penalties for truckers.
Speed
Truck drivers must follow all posted speed limits while driving through Missouri. Some trucking companies may set speed monitors to ensure that their drivers are operating safely.
Trucking Accident Laws
All Missouri accidents should be reported to the Missouri Department of Transportation – especially those required by law. Those that involve a commercial vehicle should be reported within 30 days if:
- The accident involved an uninsured or unlicensed driver
- Someone was injured or killed
- There is more than $500 in property damage
If you were involved in a trucking accident in Missouri, learning about trucking accident laws is only the beginning. A Missouri accident lawyer can help you through every step of your case, and the team at Dreyer & Tinney are here to help. We’re a compassionate team of attorneys who can help you fight against insurance and trucking companies to get the compensation that you deserve. Contact us today to get started with a consultation and case review with a member of our law team.