Truck Accident Lawyer

Your #1 Rated Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer

Injured in a tractor trailer accident in Missouri or Kansas? Time is of the essence. Call Devkota Law Firm Now To Get on the Path to Your Best Recovery

Recover Compensation With The Help Of A Truck Accident Attorney

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Kansas City, you may not know how to go about seeking compensation for your injuries. Trucking companies and their insurance companies employ aggressive legal teams to help safeguard their interests, which may make it difficult for victims to face the legal landscape alone. Luckily, you can hire a Kansas City semi-truck accident attorney, someone who understands the ins and outs of trucking laws in Kansas City to fight for proper compensation.

One of the key advantages of working with an attorney is their ability to evaluate the full scope of your losses. Beyond the immediate medical bills and vehicle damage, a comprehensive claim should include:

• Lost wages
• Future medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of earning capacity
• Loss of consortium

Also, truck accidents often result in severe injuries. These require long-term care, physical therapy, and other treatments that need to be factored into any settlement.

Truck accident attorneys also handle the key task of dealing with insurance companies. Insurers may offer lowball settlements that fail to cover the full extent of your damages. However, your attorney will ensure that the compensation you receive reflects the actual costs of the accident. If not, your lawyer will take your case to court to seek a fair verdict.

Kansas City Truck Accident Settlements And Verdicts

Kansas City truck accident cases often result in substantial settlements and verdicts due to the severity of the injuries involved. These cases can involve significant compensation, as trucking accidents frequently lead to life-altering injuries and even fatalities.

The outcome of your truck accident case is dependent on several factors. These include the following:

• Liability determination: Establishing who is at fault is vital. This involves examining evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction. If liability is clear, it can lead to a quicker resolution.

• Severity of injuries: The seriousness of injuries sustained can affect compensation amounts. More severe injuries typically result in higher settlements or awards due to medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

• Compliance with regulations: Trucking companies and drivers are subject to specific regulations. Violations, such as exceeding driving hours or improper vehicle maintenance, can strengthen a case against them.

• Insurance coverage: The policies of both the truck driver and the trucking company insurers play a role. Higher coverage limits can lead to larger settlements, while disputes over coverage can complicate the case.

• Evidence and documentation: The availability and quality of evidence, such as electronic logging device data, are critical. Strong evidence supports claims and influences negotiations.

• Legal representation: The experience of the legal team can significantly impact the outcome. An attorney who has a rich history handling truck accident cases can effectively maneuver through the legal system, negotiate better settlements, and professionally advocate in court.
• Economic impact: The financial losses incurred are considered when determining compensation. If you can demonstrate substantial economic impact, you have better chances of winning higher settlements.

Settlements in truck accident cases often occur before trial, but if an agreement cannot be reached, your lawyer may have to take the case to court. We have noted that Kansas City courts have seen substantial verdicts in favor of our truck accident victims, sometimes reaching millions of dollars. 

Trucking Accident Claims & Legal Considerations

Filing a truck accident claim is not as straightforward as it might seem. This is because, unlike regular car accidents, trucking accident cases affect several parties, including the driver, cargo loader, the trucking company, and the truck manufacturer. Therefore,  determining which party is liable requires a thorough investigation, and an attorney’s knowledge and experience are usually key in identifying the potential defendants.

One of the important legal considerations when handling truck accidents in Kansas City includes federal and state trucking regulations. Truck drivers and trucking company operations are regulated by specific rules outlined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). 

These regulations include the following:

• Hours of service (HOS) regulations: These regulations restrict the driving hours to prevent fatigue. Specifically, drivers may drive up to 11 hours following ten consecutive hours off duty, engage in work for 14 hours within a 24-hour period, and take a 30-minute break after no more than eight consecutive hours of work.

• Commercial driver’s license (CDL) requirements: Drivers must obtain a CDL, which involves passing knowledge and skills tests. There are different classes and endorsements depending on the type of vehicle and cargo.

• Vehicle maintenance and inspection: Regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs are required to ensure vehicles are safe to operate. Drivers must also conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections.

• Electronic logging devices (ELDs): Drivers must use ELDs to electronically record a driver’s hours of service to ensure compliance with HOS regulations.

• Weight and size limits: Trucks must adhere to federal weight and size limits to prevent road damage and ensure safety. Overweight permits may be required for certain loads.

• Hazardous materials regulations: Special rules apply to the transportation of hazardous materials, including proper labeling, handling, and documentation.
• Cargo inspection: Truck drivers need to inspect the cargo within the first 50 miles to see if any adjustments are needed.

Another important legal consideration is the statute of limitations. In Missouri, you have limited time to officially launch your claim. The law allows only five years from the date of the accident or finding out about the injury to file your claim. If you don’t act within the timeframe, you may lose your legal right to bring a truck accident claim in Kansas City. 

The legal team at Devkota Law Firm urges truck accident victims to engage a lawyer immediately after the accident to start building the case early and plan the case based on the statute of limitations.

Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Kansas City

Truck crashes in Kansas City occur for a variety of reasons, many of which stem from negligence. Common causes of truck crashes include:

• Driver fatigue: Sometimes, truck drivers work for prolonged hours and may become fatigued, leading to slower reaction times and impaired judgment. Despite regulations limiting driving hours, some drivers or companies may push the limits, contributing to accidents.

• Distracted Driving: With the rising use of smartphones and onboard technology, distracted driving has become a leading cause of accidents. Truck drivers may take their eyes off the road to check GPS, text, or make phone calls, leading to devastating crashes.

• Speeding and reckless driving: Due to tight delivery schedules, some truck drivers may resort to reckless behaviors, such as tailgating. The huge size and weight of a truck makes speeding and careless driving particularly dangerous.

• Improperly loaded cargo: If cargo is not securely fastened or the truck is overloaded, it can affect the vehicle’s stability and braking ability, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Mechanical failures: Poorly maintained trucks may experience mechanical issues such as brake failures that may contribute to accidents. Such incidents may give rise to defective productive claims against the parts’ manufacturer or supplier.

Types Of Truck Accidents

There are several types of accidents depending on the circumstances that lead to the crash. Mostly, the type of truck accident can influence the severity of the injuries. Common types of truck accidents in Kansas City include:

• Jackknife accidents: These occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, making a 90-degree angle with the cab. They can cause multiple-vehicle pile-ups and are often the result of sudden braking or slick road conditions.

• Rear-end collisions: Trucks have longer stopping distances than smaller vehicles, making rear-end collisions more likely in traffic or at stoplights. These accidents often result in severe injuries to the occupants of the smaller vehicle.

• Underride accidents: In an underride accident, a smaller vehicle becomes wedged under the rear or side of a truck. These are among the most deadly types of accidents, as the roof of the smaller vehicle may be crushed.

• T-bone collisions: These incidents happen when a truck disregards a red light or stop sign and crashes into the side of another vehicle. T-bone collisions are particularly dangerous for the occupants of the struck vehicle.
• Rollover accidents: Trucks are prone to rolling over due to their high center of gravity, especially when taking turns too quickly or when cargo is improperly loaded.

Determining Fault In A Truck Accident

Determining fault in a truck accident involves assessing multiple parties and how they might have violated the legal regulations governing truck operations. Key factors that attorneys investigate to determine fault in truck crashes include:

• Driver negligence: Was the truck driver speeding, fatigued, distracted, or otherwise negligent? Driver logs, black box data, and witness testimony can help establish whether the driver was at fault.

• Company negligence: Trucking companies must ensure their drivers are well-trained, their vehicles are in top condition, and they stick to safety rules. If a company cuts corners to save time or money, they may be held liable for the accident.

• Vehicle maintenance issues: Was the truck properly maintained? Mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts can result from poor maintenance, and the party responsible for maintaining the vehicle may be liable.
• Cargo loading problems: Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable. If the accident occurred due to cargo issues, the company responsible for loading the truck may be held accountable.

Request A Free Case Evaluation From A Kansas City, Missouri Truck Accident Attorney

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you need to take action as soon as possible. It is in your best interest to call a Kansas City truck accident attorney to evaluate your case and learn about your options for pursuing compensation. Your attorney will review the accident details, assess the value of your claim, and guide you through the steps involved in filing a lawsuit. At Devkota Law Firm, we understand that truck accident cases are complex and are committed to helping victims recover fair compensation. 

Call us at (816) 307-0355 or visit us online today to schedule your free case evaluation.

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A personal injury in Kansas City sustained in a semi-truck accident can encompass a wide variety of claims. The Devkota Law Firm is especially well equipped to handle tractor-trailer cases in Kansas City. Semi Truck Collisions are very technical, and our lawyers can handle all complex injury claims involved in large commercial truck collisions. We will fight for your right to receive the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled.

We will fight the insurance companies as well as the trucking companies who may be liable. We have a strong commitment to take your case to trial if necessary. The Devkota Law Firm will not stop litigating until we make sure that our clients receive the financial recompense they deserve.

YOU’VE GOT ONE SHOT TO GET IT RIGHT

What can go wrong?

• Lose your case.
• Receive a small settlement.
• Long delays.
• Poor communication.

Watch Out For These Red Flags

• Constant Expensive TV & Billboard Ads
• Limited or No Jury Trial Experience
• Firm settles most cases and does not file lawsuits.
• No personal customer service liaison.

The Big Trucking Companies Don’t Like Us….. Because we don’t quit until we get justice!

Understanding Missouri and Kansas Tractor Trailer Accident Law

Know Your Rights So You Can Hire The Best Kansas City Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyer For Your Case

Are you searching for the best semi-truck accident lawyers in Kansas City or “truck accident attorneys near me”?

Selection of the wrong personal injury attorney for your Kansas City car accident may result in a low recovery or even a loss of your case. How do I avoid making the wrong decision?

“I am in pain, I am injured, I need help and the last thing I needed was the hassle and stress from my attorney”- John Doe (Client with wrong attorney)

Don’t let this be you!

“Success comes from relentless dedication and hard work. We fight for justice, ensuring every detail counts.”

Tarak Devkota

Before you hire a personal injury lawyer for your trucking accident injury, be sure to ask the right questions.

Top 7 mistakes clients make when selecting a Kansas City  truck accident lawyer for their tractor-trailer, 18 wheeler or semi-truck personal injury case.

1. Are you hiring a lawyer without jury trial experience?
2. Are you hiring a lawyer who is interested in justice as well as financial awards?
3. Are you hiring a lawyer without scientific and medical knowledge?
4. Are you hiring a lawyer without investigators and investigative procedures?
5. Are you hiring a lawyer without engineers, accident reconstructionists, and expert witnesses?
6. Are you hiring a lawyer without enough resources to challenge large trucking companies?
7. Are you hiring a lawyer without enough experience to handle shrewd insurance companies?

Kansas City tractor trailer accident cases are complex and usually result in catastrophic injury or death. The selection of the right attorney is imperative in this difficult time.  Take a moment before making such a big decision and interview your potential representative.  Large law firm advertising budgets do not win cases. Some State bars even require lawyer advertisements to conspicuously state “The choice of a truck accident lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.”  How should one make such an important decision?

Candidly ask questions concerning the topics above.  If your potential attorney fails to respond immediately with answers to these important questions you may want to receive a second opinion to ease your concerns.

Jury Trial Experience and Justice

The Devkota Law Firm has been litigating cases since 1999 with a passion for jury trials. We have sought justice by proving culpability and collected millions of dollars for our suffering clients.  Many Kansas City semi-truck accident injury cases do not result in a jury trial, alternatively, the insurance company pays a settlement because your attorney has significant jury trial experience. You must position your case in a manner that makes the opposition hesitant to fight in court.  Insurance companies maintain sophisticated databases on your attorney’s experience and ability to prosecute a claim at trial, successfully.  Ultimately, if the opposition fails to accept full liability or provide adequate compensation you know that the Tarak Alexander Devkota has over 21 years of experience litigating cases to completion.  Peace of mind is invaluable in your time of extreme distress.  The last thing a suffering family needs after a catastrophic tractor-trailer accident is problems with the quality of their representation.

Knowledge, Investigations, Experts, Resources & Experience

Knowledge is the most powerful tool when attempting to solve any complex problem.  No litigation can prove to be more complex than a catastrophic tractor-trailer case.  Tractor-trailer personal injury cases produce mountains of evidence that an attorney must competently decipher what is advantageous to your case and evaluate what may be admissible to the jury at trial. Having a lawyer with scientific knowledge is a great advantage when evaluating the laws of physics, accident vectors, and biomechanical mechanisms of injury.  Tarak Alexander Devkota obtained his Bachelor of Science from the University of Missouri in 1994 with a heavy emphasis in mathematics, physics, organic chemistry, and biology.  These educational tools in addition to 21 years of experience working with experts in the areas of mechanical engineering, accident reconstruction, and other expert witnesses reinforce his knowledge base necessary for a deep understanding of any catastrophic accident case.

Investigation of a tractor-trailer or semi-truck accident in Kansas City is essential to obtaining the justice you seek from your personal injury case.  The Devkota Law Firm possesses investigators and an early investigative strategy that secures the essential evidence to prove your case.  Preservation of accident evidence before it is lost is critical. Tarak Alexander Devkota has devised multiple proven investigative strategies that assist mechanical engineers, accident reconstructions, and other expert witnesses obtain the raw data they require to formulate an expert opinion and testify with a degree of certainty that is hard to disprove or discredit.  The Devkota Law Firm has been litigating cases with a robust team of experts for over 21 years.  These relationships are imperative to meeting expert witness deadlines mandated by the courts.  Looking to develop relationships with experts after you start the case may be too late.  The Devkota Law Firm has the resources and experience necessary for a trial victory. Contact us today.

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Scott P.

3 months ago

I had a great experience with Tarak and Robert as my injury lawyers. Their knowledge of the law and commitment to my case were exceptional. Thanks to their efforts and the other paralegals, I received a good compensation for my injuries. If you’re looking for a dedicated injury lawyer in Kansas City, I highly recommend this law firm.

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