Commercial Vehicle Accidents Lawyers in Jefferson City
Being struck by a commercial vehicle changes everything in an instant. The physical injuries alone can be serious, but the legal side of things adds another layer of difficulty. Commercial vehicle accidents frequently involve multiple parties: the driver, the employer, third-party contractors, and insurance carriers, each with their own legal teams and interests.
At Brydon, Swearengen & England P.C., we stand up for people who have been hurt in these situations. Our firm has spent nearly 50 years advocating for injured clients across a wide range of personal injury matters. We know how these cases work and how to fight for the favorable results our clients deserve.
Who We Serve
Commercial vehicle accidents do not follow a single pattern. They happen in different ways, to different people, under vastly different circumstances. We represent clients across a broad range of situations, including:
- Drivers and Passengers Struck by a Commercial Vehicle: You were in a car, truck, or other vehicle when a delivery truck, box truck, tractor-trailer, or similar commercial vehicle collided with you.
- Pedestrians, Cyclists, and Motorcyclists Hit by a Commercial Vehicle: You were on foot, on a bicycle, or on a motorcycle when a commercial vehicle turned, merged, backed up, or otherwise struck you.
- Victims of Multi-Vehicle Crashes Involving Commercial Trucks: The accident involved multiple vehicles, and you need help determining how the commercial driver may have contributed to the incident.
- People Uncertain About Employer Liability: The driver was working at the time of the crash, and you need help determining whether the employer or another party may share responsibility for your injuries.
- Victims Contacted by the Company or Its Insurer: The commercial company or its insurance carrier has already reached out asking for a recorded statement or offering a settlement before you fully understand your injuries, losses, or legal options.
If your situation fits any of these descriptions, our team wants to hear from you.
The Dangers of Commercial Truck Accidents
When you think of an accident involving a truck, many people picture semi-tractor trailers. But these are far from the only commercial vehicles on the road. Many companies use box trucks or delivery trucks to deliver goods both locally and over long distances. The tall, boxy shape of these vehicles makes them prone to rollovers, especially if the driver is speeding. Making the problem worse, delivery drivers are often on tight deadlines and may drive with too little sleep or engage in risky driving behaviors.
The dangers of commercial truck accidents should not be underestimated. When a collision does occur, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and preserve key evidence. A skilled personal injury attorney can assist you with these steps.
What to do After an Accident with a Commercial Truck
After stopping, inform authorities of the accident: If you are in an accident with a large truck or tractor-trailer, it is imperative that you do not leave the crash scene. Ensure that you and any other passengers are out of danger, then assess if anyone is injured. If possible, turn on your hazard lights and move your car to the shoulder of the road. To help avoid another accident, light road flares and put up cones if you have them. Call 911 as soon as possible.
If no one is injured, contact the state highway patrol or local authorities. Complete an accident report and adhere to any advice they provide. Remember to request your own personal copy of the accident report.
Procure medical attention: Regardless of the severity of the injury or whether or not you feel hurt, it is important to seek medical treatment. An elevated emotional state and adrenaline may prevent you from feeling any pain. If you are not assessed by a medical professional shortly after the accident, it may interfere with your chance of being awarded compensation for your injuries.
Determine who else was involved in the accident: Be mindful of any logos or unique marks on the truck and other vehicles involved in the accident. Though the driver of the truck may be at fault, the driver’s employer may also be liable.
Swap contact information: If the other party in the accident leaves the scene, it may be impossible to get their contact information, leaving you on the hook for any associated costs. If you want to pursue a monetary award, the path will be much easier if you get their information at the scene of the accident.
See if there are witnesses: It is always a good idea to check for anyone who witnessed the accident. Collect any legitimate statements yourself or get their contact information so your attorney may follow up. Their testimony may be valuable in your case.
Have records of the incident: Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to your vehicle, the truck, and any property damage. The pictures may be used in court to establish who was at fault. Take pictures of your injuries as well.
Missouri law maintains a five-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims (Missouri Revised Statutes Section 516.120), which means time matters. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better positioned you will be to safeguard your rights and preserve key evidence.
Why Partner With Our Attorneys
Selecting the right attorney for your commercial vehicle accident case is one of the most important decisions you will make in the months ahead. Here is what sets our firm apart:
- Nearly 50 years of experience. Our firm has served clients throughout Missouri for decades. That experience translates into a deep understanding of Missouri personal injury law and how to apply it effectively on behalf of our clients.
- A proven record of results. A consistent pattern of favorable outcomes and settlements defines our work. We approach every case with the same level of diligence, regardless of its size or complexity.
- Direct access to your attorney. We take the time to sit down with each client, listen carefully, and make sure you understand every step of your case. You are never just a file number here.
- Thorough knowledge of insurance tactics. Insurance companies representing commercial entities often move fast to limit payouts. Our attorneys know how these companies operate and how to counter their strategies effectively.
- Collaboration with medical professionals. We work alongside orthopedists, neurologists, and other specialists to support both your recovery and the medical documentation required for your case.
- No obligation to get started. We offer free initial consultations for personal injury matters, so you can speak with an attorney and get clear answers before making any commitments.
Our Truck Accident Lawyers are Eager to Help
Commercial vehicle accidents carry serious consequences: significant injuries, complicated liability questions, and insurance companies that are quick to protect their own interests. Having an experienced and capable legal team in your corner makes a meaningful difference in how your case unfolds and how your recovery proceeds.
At Brydon, Swearengen & England P.C., we are prepared to stand by your side from the moment you call us through every stage of your case. Our attorneys bring nearly 50 years of experience, genuine commitment to our clients, and a thorough understanding of personal injury law to every case we handle. To schedule a consultation, call or click here to learn more.
FAQs About Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Missouri
Liability can extend beyond the driver. Depending on the facts, the driver’s employer, the vehicle owner, a cargo loading company, or a maintenance contractor may all bear some responsibility. Our knowledgeable team investigates all potential sources of liability in your case.
You may be entitled to recover medical expenses (past and future), lost wages due to an inability to work, reduced earning capacity, property damage, and compensation for pain and suffering. The specific amount depends on the facts of your case.
No. You are not required to provide a recorded statement to the other party’s insurer, and doing so before speaking with an attorney can seriously harm your claim. Contact our firm first so we can advise you on how to respond.
Quick settlement offers from commercial insurers are often far below what injured victims actually deserve, particularly before the full extent of injuries is known. Do not accept any offer without first consulting an attorney who can evaluate whether it reflects your true losses.
Key evidence includes the police accident report, photos of the scene and vehicle damage, medical records, witness statements, driver logs, the commercial vehicle’s maintenance records, and any available dash cam or surveillance footage. Acting quickly helps preserve this evidence before it is lost or destroyed.