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ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYERS

Drivers across Missouri and Southern Illinois share the road with many types of vehicles, but big trucks can be the most dangerous of all during accidents. Because of their weight and size, trucks are more difficult to stop and maneuver, which can lead to serious truck accidents.

What Our Clients Say

“Cofman Townsley and their staff are like family. They met every need, answered every question, called us after hours, etc. They went above and beyond and made sure that we got our settlement to the fullest amount.” Jill C.

“Cofman Townsley was persistent, professional, and did an excellent job at keeping me informed all the time.”

Ashanti M.

“The Cofman Townsley team was awesome through the entire process.”

Darlana J.

“Cofman Townsley was great at helping me. They were always on time and answered any questions I had. They were very nice and patient with everything.”

ReJeane T.

“The attorneys were very responsive to my needs. Every time I called, someone got right back to me right away. I always knew what was going on because I was kept very informed about my case. I would recommend Cofman Townsley to anyone. I feel that Cofman Townsley did a wonderful job with my case. Everything was done in a professional manner. Everyone is really nice. ”

LaDawn H.

“Cofman Townsley are like family to me. They explain things thoroughly, make sure that I understand, and that I am taken care of. David Nissenholtz and Paula were super to me, and helped me through a long and difficult process where I had years of medical treatment and much stress. They care about people and take time to listen. I would refer my friends and family members to them because I trust they will take good care of them.”

William V.

“Cofman Townsley treats you like family and like you are the only client. They answered all of my questions and took time to make sure I understood. I wouldn’t change to another attorney. They have done a good job for me and I trust them, which is very important. The whole office of people is friendly. They make me feel like I am number one, and they will do the same for you.”

Darlene W.

“Cofman Townsley diligently represented me in my personal injury work comp claim and got me a fair settlement in a timely manner.”

Jeff R.

“It was a great experience. Cofman Townsley handled all the leg work for me. I appreciate all the help.”

Chris S.

“I was very pleased with the way in which my case was handled. I was treated with great respect and care. I have never had to have legal services in my life, so for a first time event this has been very easy. I would like to say that the work ethic and determination of this company was the greatest thing that I will be left with. I thank you all very much!”

Johnny M.

“David did an amazing job with my case and communicating with me. His professionalism and concern with my progress meant a lot to me. I really appreciate everything he and his staff did for me. Thank you all.”

Carey G.

“Cofman Townsley are a great team of lawyers who go out of their way to do the BEST for their clients. They stay on you and get you the largest settlement they can.”

Peggy T.

“I really appreciate what they have done for me. I was treated excellently and if something ever happens again, they would be the first people I would call.”

Amber A.

“They have great attention to detail and [provide] a wonderful level of comfort during tough times.”

Matt C.

“Thank you. You guys were very fast, considerate, and friendly. I really appreciate it.”

Michael S.

HOW OUR ST. LOUIS TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYERS CAN HELP

Tractor-trailer accidents are complicated because they may have many potential causes and are subject to many regulations. The St. Louis truck accident lawyers at Cofman Townsley have experience handling these claims, and we can build a strong case for you by:

  • Collecting Evidence: We’ll travel to the accident scene and collect evidence from the wreck, including debris and photographs of skid marks and other physical signs of the collision. We’ll inspect the truck, driver’s log, and maintenance records.
  • Interview Witnesses: Witnesses can provide a clear picture of what happened in the accident. We’ll do our best to locate and interview anyone who saw your accident occur.
  • Negotiate With the Insurance Company: Trucking companies have powerful insurance companies on their sides, and they may be hesitant to pay the money you deserve. We’ll negotiate and stand up for your rights to compensation.

Contact a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident, because crucial evidence can quickly disappear.

3 REASONS TRUCK ACCIDENTS ARE DIFFERENT

While any motor vehicle accident can be traumatic, several factors set truck accident cases apart from other motor vehicle claims.

  1. Severity of Injuries: Tractor trailers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—or nearly 20 times more than an average passenger car. This difference in weight makes the probability of serious injuries or wrongful death much higher for truck accidents than for accidents involving smaller vehicles.
  2. Multiple Parties May Be Held Liable: Truck drivers, trucking companies, truck manufacturers, and leasing companies are just some of the parties that can be held liable for truck accidents. An in-depth investigation is often required to determine which parties may have contributed to a truck accident.
  3. Trucking Industry Regulations: From weight limits to cargo restrictions, the trucking industry must follow strict safety regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

If you have questions about your truck accident, turn to Cofman Townsley. Our St. Louis truck accident attorneys know state and federal truck accident laws, and we’re here to help you move forward with life after your accident.

CAUSE OF TRUCK ACCIDENTS

Truck accidents can happen in the blink of an eye—especially when trucks are in heavily congested areas or traveling at high speeds. Though truck drivers often contribute to truck accidents by breaking the rules of the road or driving while intoxicated, trucking companies that push limits and violate regulations can also be held responsible for accidents.

Common Truck Accident Causes

Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:

  • Distracted Driving: Truck drivers are susceptible to distractions, including using cell phones, changing radio stations, chatting with passengers, and more. Because trucks are harder to stop or slow down than other vehicles, even brief moments of distraction can have serious consequences.
  • Regulation Violations: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has regulations that truck drivers and truck companies must follow. If these regulations are violated and trucks carry too much weight or go too long between repairs, accidents can occur.
  • Traffic Violations: Truck drivers must follow the rules of the road just like everyone else. If truck drivers speed, run stop signs or red lights, or follow too closely, they may collide with other vehicles and cause wrecks.

No matter what caused your truck accident, the lawyers at Cofman Townsley will investigate and hold the negligent driver or trucking company accountable for your medical bills and lost wages.

TRUCK REGULATIONS

The trucking industry has numerous regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to keep drivers and other motorists safe on the road. Sometimes, truck drivers or trucking companies violate these regulations to save time and money while increasing profits. When FMCSA regulations are violated, serious accidents can occur.

Types of FMCSA Regulations

Some of the FMCSA’s regulations for truck drivers and trucking companies include:

  • Weight Limits: The FMCSA limits the amount of cargo trucks can carry. If trucks exceed these limits, they may be dangerous to drive and difficult to stop.
  • Maintenance: All trucks must receive regular maintenance. That includes keeping parts like tires, brakes, engines, and more in working condition. Serious accidents can happen if these parts fail due to wear and tear or neglect.
  • Cargo Securement: Truck cargo must be properly tied down or secured to the trucks. If cargo becomes loose during transit, it can detach from the truck and hit other vehicles or pedestrians.

These regulations are strictly enforced in the trucking industry. If your accident was the result of an FMCSA violation, our truck accident attorneys will be your advocates to get you the money you deserve for your medical bills and lost wages.

Common Injuries from Truck Accidents

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries: Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) are some of the most severe consequences of truck accidents. These injuries occur when the head is subjected to a violent impact, leading to bruising, bleeding, or swelling of the brain. TBIs can result in long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments, severely impacting the victim’s quality of life.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries from truck accidents can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the injury. These injuries can result in lifelong disability, requiring extensive rehabilitation and long-term care. Victims often face significant lifestyle changes and may need assistive devices to regain some level of independence.
  • Broken Bones: The force of a truck collision can cause multiple fractures and broken bones. Commonly affected areas include the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries often require surgical intervention, physical therapy, and a lengthy recovery period, impacting the victim’s ability to work and perform daily activities.
  • Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, such as damage to the liver, spleen, or kidneys, can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent after an accident. These injuries require prompt medical attention to prevent complications like internal bleeding, which can lead to severe health issues or death if left untreated.
  • Burns and Lacerations: Burns and lacerations are common in truck accidents, especially if the collision results in a fire or the victim is ejected from the vehicle. Burns can cause severe pain, infection, and permanent scarring, while deep lacerations may require stitches or surgery and can lead to significant blood loss and infection.

The Importance of Immediate Medical Attention

Seeking immediate medical attention after a truck accident is crucial for several reasons.

  • Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, and a medical professional can identify and treat these hidden injuries before they worsen.
  • Timely medical documentation is essential for legal and insurance purposes. Detailed medical records provide critical evidence of the injuries sustained and the necessary treatments, which can significantly impact the outcome of a compensation claim.
  • Prompt medical care can improve the overall prognosis and reduce recovery time, helping victims return to their normal lives sooner.

TRUCK ACCIDENT FAQS

  • What are common truck accident causes? Drivers need to take extra precautions when driving big trucks. Commercial trucks’ size and weight often make them more difficult to steer, maneuver, and stop than other vehicles.

    Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:
    • Distracted driving
    • Drug and alcohol use
    • Excess cargo weight
    • Irregular maintenance
    • Sleep deprivation
  • Do I have a truck accident case? If you were injured in a truck accident that was caused by a trucking company or truck driver’s negligence, you need to hire an attorney and investigate the cause. The St. Louis truck accident lawyers at Cofman Townsley can look at all the evidence to decide if you have a strong claim for compensation.
  • Who is responsible for my accident? With trucking accidents, numerous parties may be responsible, such as the:
    • Trucking Companies: Trucking companies can be held liable for accidents if they fail to follow safety regulations or force drivers to work too many hours without rest.
    • Truck Drivers: Truck drivers who speed, run red lights, drive while distracted or intoxicated, or break other laws of the road may be considered responsible for accidents.
    • Truck Manufacturers: Truck manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their trucks are safe to drive within proper maintenance schedules. At Cofman Townsley, we promise to invest our time and resources into your case to determine what caused your accident. Then, we’ll work hard to help you get the money you’re owed. Pick up the phone and dial (314) 499-1190 or fill out our online form today.
  • How can I get compensation for my injuries? The trucking company’s insurance provider may offer you a settlement after the accident, but it’s usually not enough to pay for all of your accident-related expenses. At Cofman Townsley, our Missouri tractor-trailer accident lawyers can file a claim for damages and help you get the maximum amount of compensation for your medical bills and lost wages.
  • How long do I have to file a claim on a truck accident? The statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim in Missouri and Illinois is usually two years from the date of the crash. That’s why it’s important that you call an attorney at Cofman Townsley as soon as possible after the accident.

    Evidence can quickly disappear or even be intentionally destroyed by the trucking company. Our investigators will act fast to collect evidence and talk to witnesses to get a complete picture of the accident.
  • Who will handle my case? When you call Cofman Townsley, you’ll speak directly with an attorney who will handle your case. The attorneys you see on our website are the attorneys who handle our clients’ cases. In addition, our legal staff—including case managers and paralegals—works closely on all cases to support each other and our clients. We’re proud to give our friends and neighbors the high-quality legal representation they deserve.

OUR PROMISES TO YOU

When you call us after your truck accident, you can count on us to:

  • Connect You With An Attorney: When you contact Cofman Townsley, you’ll speak with an attorney. In fact, your truck accident attorney will be available to answer your questions and keep you up-to-date on the progress of your case.
  • Work Harder Than the Other Side: Trucking companies have their own legal teams that want to deny you benefits. We’ll work harder than the other side to maximize your chance of getting the compensation you deserve.
  • Prepare Your Case for Trial: Although we work hard to settle out of court for our clients, we aren’t afraid of going to court if the insurance company doesn’t offer you a fair settlement.

Types of Compensation Available

The aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the types of compensation you may be entitled to. At Cofman Townsley, we are dedicated to fighting for maximum compensation for our clients—to aid in their recovery and secure their future.

Here are the primary types of compensation available to truck accident victims:

  • Medical Expenses: Victims of truck accidents can seek compensation for all medical expenses related to their injuries. This includes hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical costs associated with ongoing care or rehabilitation.
  • Lost Wages: If an accident victim is unable to work due to their injuries, they can claim compensation for lost wages. This includes not only the income lost during the recovery period but also any potential future earnings if the victim is left with a long-term or permanent disability that affects their ability to work.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident. This type of compensation considers the severity and duration of the victim’s suffering and the impact on their quality of life.
  • Property Damage: Truck accidents often result in significant damage to the victim’s vehicle and personal property. Compensation can cover the cost of repairs or the replacement value of the damaged items, ensuring the victim is not financially burdened by property losses.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases where the truck driver’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, the court may award punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. Punitive damages go beyond compensatory damages and are awarded at the court’s discretion based on the severity of the misconduct.

BIG TRUCK ACCIDENTS DESERVE QUALITY REPRESENTATION

When you get Cofman Townsley, you get a law firm that not only wants to help you get damages for your truck accident, but also help make your life whole again. We have more than 40 years of experience assisting injured victims, and our St. Louis truck accident lawyers will do everything we can to get you the compensation you deserve for your medical bills and lost wages. Dial (314) 499-1190 or fill out our free contact form today.