Joplin Truck Accident Attorneys
Holding Negligent Truck Drivers Accountable in Missouri
At Bishop & Hayes, we know that an unexpected accident can derail your health and financial security in a heartbeat. From requesting time off work to affording life-saving medical care, there can be a lot to worry about after a wrongful injury. That's why our truck accident lawyers are committed to safeguarding the rights of the wrongfully injured and their loved ones in Joplin and beyond.
At Bishop & Hayes, we have over 50 years of combined experience pursuing justice for truck accident victims. With extensive knowledge of personal injury law and over $100 million recovered for clients throughout Missouri, you can rely on our trusted advocates to prioritize your needs from start to finish. If you were wrongfully injured by a negligent truck driver on the road, our Joplin attorneys can aggressively protect your rights while advocating for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Bishop & Hayes is committed to holding truck drivers accountable for negligence. Contact us online or by calling (417) 479-3510 to discuss your case. Pay nothing until we achieve a fair settlement.
Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Accidents involving semi-trucks and 18-wheelers often differ from standard car collisions due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. Some common types of truck accidents include:
- Rear-End Collisions: Trucks may struggle to stop quickly, leading to severe rear-end crashes.
- Jackknife Accidents: Occur when the trailer swings out in a sharp angle, often causing multi-vehicle collisions.
- Rollover Accidents: Can happen due to high speeds, sharp turns, or uneven loads.
- Sideswipe Collisions: Large trucks may collide with vehicles in adjacent lanes during lane changes.
- Underride Accidents: These dangerous crashes occur when a car slides under the trailer, often resulting in catastrophic injuries.
Common Causes of Big Rig Accidents
Truck accidents can result from a variety of factors, including driver error, mechanical failure, and unsafe road conditions. Common causes include:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours and tight delivery schedules can lead to exhaustion and reduced reaction times.
- Distracted Driving: Cell phones, GPS devices, or other distractions can divert a truck driver’s attention.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces stopping time and increases the severity of collisions.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Brake failure, tire blowouts, or other mechanical issues can trigger accidents.
- Improper Loading: Uneven or unsecured cargo can cause rollovers or loss of control.
- Alcohol or Drug Use: Impairment significantly increases the risk of accidents on the road.
A Joplin truck accident lawyer can investigate the cause of your accident to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Common Semi-Truck Accident Injuries
Truck collisions often result in more serious injuries than typical car accidents due to the mass and force of the vehicles involved. Some common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Severe burns or lacerations
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
In many cases, victims require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Having a knowledgeable attorney can ensure your claim accounts for these significant impacts.
Where Do Truck Crashes Often Happen in Joplin?
Truck accidents in Joplin, MO, can occur anywhere, but certain areas are more prone to collisions due to heavy traffic and commercial activity:
- Interstate 44: A major corridor for commercial trucks, often seeing high-speed accidents.
- Highway 71: Heavy truck traffic increases the likelihood of collisions.
- Industrial Areas: Loading docks, warehouses, and distribution centers can be hotspots for truck-related accidents.
- City Streets with High Traffic Volume: Accidents often occur where trucks and passenger vehicles share busy urban roads.
Knowing where accidents frequently occur can help your lawyer gather evidence and identify patterns of negligence.
Compensation from a Truck Accident Claim
Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to a range of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: Repairs or replacement for damaged vehicles and personal property.
- Wrongful Death Damages: In cases where the accident results in a fatality, families may pursue compensation for funeral costs, loss of support, and emotional suffering.
Our Joplin truck accident lawyer will thoroughly evaluate your case to maximize your potential recovery.
OUR VERDICTS & SETTLEMENTS
MORE THAN $100,000,000 RECOVERED FOR OUR CLIENTS
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$1.5 Million Auto Accident Rollover
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$1.1 Million Motorcycle Accident
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$1 Million Semi-Truck Accident
The Keys to our success
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Exclusive Focus on Auto Accident Recovery Law
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Over $100,000,000 Total Recovered for Our Clients
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50 Years of Combined Experience in Car Crash Recovery
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Same-Day Returned Phone Calls and Emails from Our Clients
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Partners Who Handle Your Claim from Consultation to Recovery
FAQs About Truck Accident Claims in Joplin
Q: How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Joplin?
A: In Missouri, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally five years from the date of the accident, but it’s best to consult an attorney promptly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Q: Who can be held liable in a truck accident?
A: Liability may extend beyond the truck driver to the trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, cargo loader, or even maintenance providers, depending on the circumstances.
Q: Should I accept the insurance company’s first offer?
A: It’s usually unwise. Insurance companies often offer settlements that are far less than what victims deserve. An attorney can negotiate a fair and comprehensive settlement.
Q: Do I need to go to court?
A: Many truck accident cases settle out of court, but your lawyer will prepare for trial if necessary to ensure you receive full compensation.
Hear from our clients
WE PUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AND YOUR RECOVERY FIRST
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“They are really good people very friendly and helpful!”- Jimmy C.
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“Mr. Bishop was always available to answer my questions and he took care of everything”- Cathy B.
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“Great professional team!”- Terry W.
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“Tim and his staff are wonderful to work with!”- John B.
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“I give this Firm 5 stars on all levels!”- Gene M.
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“If you need an attorney that is going to look out for your needs give them a call first.”- Jen F.
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“Two times now we have needed them.”- Kasandra S.
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“There aren't enough words to say how much I appreciate my first meeting with Tim Hayes!!”- Jeanette B.
Why Partner with Bishop & Hayes?
If you were wrongfully injured by a truck driver, our experienced commercial truck accident attorney Joplin team can help you navigate every aspect of your case. When you hire Bishop & Hayes, you'll put over five decades of shared experience in your corner.
Our firm can assist with:
- Filing your claim: We can walk you through the complexities of the claims process, guiding your steps with care to ensure compliance with all legal requirements and procedures.
- Gathering evidence: We can help fortify your claim with relevant evidence, from witness testimonies to security camera footage to medical records.
- Negotiating effectively with insurers: As top-rated litigators, our seasoned attorneys can ensure your rights are protected by effectively negotiating with insurers and other opponents on your behalf.
- Representing your best interests in litigation: Our attorneys prepare every case for trial to ensure our clients are compensated fairly, allowing you to rest assured that your needs are being prioritized. We can represent your best interests in litigation if that’s what it takes to achieve a fair settlement.
If you were harmed in a truck accident, turn to our Joplin attorneys for the fierce advocacy you deserve. Call (417) 479-3510 to schedule a free consultation.