Joplin Truck Accident Attorneys

Do I Have a Valid Truck Accident Claim?

To successfully recover damages in a truck accident lawsuit, you must first establish liability. The mere existence of injuries isn’t enough to pursue compensation, making it crucial to seek sound counsel from a qualified truck accident lawyer Joplin clients trust, who can help you navigate the legal intricacies of filing a claim and maximize the compensation available to you.   

At Bishop & Hayes, our lawyers have decades of experience to ensure all negligent parties are held responsible for the harm they’ve inflicted. As the plaintiff, you bear the burden of proof in your case, meaning you must show by a preponderance of the evidence (in other words, that it is “more likely than not”) that the defendant’s negligence led to the accident.

Our Joplin attorneys can help you meet the standard of proof in your case by establishing the four key elements required to collect compensation, including:

1. Duty of care: First, you must establish that the truck driver owed you a duty of care. This refers to the legal obligation of a truck driver or trucking company to operate their vehicle in a reasonably safe manner and abide by all applicable traffic laws.
2. Breach of duty: Next, you must prove the negligent truck driver breached their duty of care by acting negligently, such as engaging in reckless driving, violating traffic laws, or failing to properly maintain the truck. 
3. Causation: Then, you must establish the defendant’s breach of duty as the proximate cause of your injuries.
4. Damages: Finally, you must prove you suffered compensatory harm or “damages” as a direct result of the truck driver’s negligence. These refer to the financial and non-financial losses you suffered as a result of the truck accident, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Many truck accident claims benefit from the inclusion of expert testimonies, which can help reinforce the argument around causation and damages. At Bishop & Hayes, we work alongside a network of trusted specialists who can provide valuable insights and analyses that contribute to building a robust case. Their input on accident reconstructions or evaluations of long-term medical impacts can define the narrative, emphasizing the depth of harm and financial impacts arising from negligent trucking practices.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Missouri?

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim is generally five years from the date of the accident. This timeline is crucial as it dictates the window in which you can initiate legal proceedings to seek compensation. Failing to file within this period may result in losing your right to pursue damages. However, there are exceptions, such as when the injured party is a minor or in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent. At Bishop & Hayes, we advise starting the process as soon as possible to gather necessary evidence and build a strong case. Our team can help you understand how the statute of limitations applies to your specific situation, ensuring that all paperwork is filed in a timely manner to preserve your rights.

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

Immediately following a truck accident, it’s important to prioritize your safety and health. First, ensure that you and others are safe from oncoming traffic and call 911 to report the accident and any injuries. Seek medical attention, even for minor symptoms, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Documenting the scene is critical; this includes taking photographs, noting road conditions, and gathering contact information from witnesses. Contact local law enforcement to file a report, which will be vital for your claim. Once you are safe, reach out to a trusted attorney at Bishop & Hayes. Our firm can guide you through the subsequent steps, including interacting with insurance companies and initiating the legal process, to protect your rights from the outset.