Here are some of the reasons that trucks can be problematic for your commute:

• The size of trucks blocks the visibility of nearby drivers. Sitting behind a truck in traffic makes it difficult to see what’s ahead of you on the road.
• Trucks can release toxic chemicals from their exhaust or even drop loads they’re carrying, such as livestock. These things are distracting and may even hit other vehicles.
• Compared to cars, the larger size and weight make it difficult for trucks to change lanes, make turns, and adjust their speed.
• Truck tires explode. It happens all the time and can be fatal.
• Truck drivers often drive for hours at a time. As a result, fatigue sets in and increases the possibility of an accident occurring.
• People forget how effective a Missouri truck accident lawyer can be.

Here are some statistics from the IIHS:

• A total of 4,102 people died in large truck crashes in 2017.
• 17% of these deaths were truck occupants, 68% were occupants of cars and other passenger vehicles, and 14% were pedestrians, bicyclists or motorcyclists.
• The number of people who died in large truck crashes was 30% higher in 2017 than in 2009 when it was the lowest it has been since the collection of fatal crash data began in 1975.
• The number of truck occupants who died was 52% higher than in 2009.
• 52% of deaths in large truck crashes in 2017 occurred on major roads other than interstates and freeways, 32% occurred on interstates and freeways, and 15% occurred on minor roads.
• 49% of large truck crash deaths in 2017 occurred from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., compared with 30% of crash deaths not involving large trucks.
• 16% of large truck crash deaths in 2017 occurred on Saturday and Sunday, compared with 35% of crash deaths not involving large trucks.
• 17% of large trucks in fatal crashes in 2017 were involved in single-vehicle crashes; in contrast, 37% of passenger vehicles in fatal crashes were involved in single-vehicle crashes.

Trucks can weigh 20-30 times more than regular cars. If you do get in an accident, consider calling a Missouri truck accident lawyer to receive compensation.

Whether you’re new to driving trucks, a veteran transporter, or just a curious web surfer, here are some Missouri truck laws from MoDOT that you should be aware of:

• When you purchase a truck (new or used), you are required to pay the applicable taxes and apply for a title in your name within 30 days of the purchase date. This is true regardless of the condition of the vehicle. If you wish to drive the vehicle, you must also obtain valid registration.
• In order to change your name for the title of your truck, you must bring the current title, a completed Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108), and proof of your legal name change to any Missouri license office.
• When buying a truck, you must pay the state sales tax AND any local taxes of the city or county where you live (not where you purchased the vehicle). The state sales tax rate is 4.225% and is based on the net purchase price of your vehicle (price after rebates and trade-ins). If you have questions about this, a Missouri truck accident lawyer can answer them.
• Under Missouri law, most Missouri motor vehicle registrations require two license plates to be displayed on the vehicle (front and rear).
• Normal driving laws (speeding, reckless driving, legal alcohol limit, obeying traffic signs, etc.) apply to truck drivers.

Yes—once everything has settled down, call a lawyer!

They will help you navigate the civil lawsuit process of your truck accident by representing you in court, if possible. An attorney can gather evidence, assess damages, and argue for compensatory or punitive damages. In some cases, a wrongful death lawsuit may be necessary. The court will judge liability which will determine exactly how much money you’ll receive.

Call a legal expert before the statute of limitations expires.

The team at TorHoerman Law is experienced in car and truck accident lawsuits. We know what you’re going through and will help you move forward in a strong and thoughtful way.

Give us a call at 1-888-508-6752 and we’ll chat with you at no cost.