Truck accidents often result in devastating consequences. According to The Missouri Department of Transportation, there were around 150 fatalities involving commercial vehicles in 2021.
St. Louis is a bustling town that also acts as a central point for a lot of cargo and freight movement in the US. The constant movement of heavy traffic also increases the probability of accidents on the street.
Truck accidents can present complex legal challenges, requiring experience and expertise to help you navigate through the complexities of the legal system. There are many obstacles that can appear during the process, from identifying accountable parties to dealing with insurance companies.
To ensure you choose a qualified and experienced attorney who can effectively handle your claim, asking the right questions during the hiring process is essential.
In this blog post, we will highlight the important factors you should keep in mind when hiring a truck accident lawyer. Moreover, this post will also discuss some common challenges that you might face in truck accident cases in St. Louis.
Common Challenges Faced by Victims in a Truck Accident Case
For most of the victims, truck accidents change their lives completely. In addition to nursing the wounds, the trauma of the incident can haunt you for years. Psychological bearings can sometimes be worse than physical discomfort, which can, in turn, create a lot of personal and professional problems in the life of the victim.
One important point emphasized by TorHoerman Law, a personal injury law firm, is that the legal system in St. Louis adheres to the pure comparative fault rule, which means that a jury will determine the percentage of fault for each party involved in an accident.
It can be difficult to pinpoint the stakeholders responsible for a truck accident, especially when multiple parties can be involved. To prove liability, a knowledgeable lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and work with experts to support their case.
Insurance companies of repute, when involved in truck accident cases, may try to reduce the victim’s claim. However, a skilled lawyer can deal with the insurance provider to guarantee the sufferer receives just recompense. They can also identify and pursue additional sources of compensation if necessary.
Truck accident cases involve compliance with various state and federal regulations, which can be complicated. A lawyer experienced in such cases can navigate the legal system and handle all legal filings, court appearances, and negotiations.
By working with an experienced St. Louis trucking accident lawyer, they can overcome these challenges and receive the compensation they deserve.
Points to Keep In Mind While Hiring Your Attorney
Hiring the right lawyer is the most important step in your journey to seek justice and compensation after the accident. Your decision is bound to impact your case’s status. Making the right inquiries during the hiring process can ensure that you hire a legal counsel who meets your needs and objectives.
Some key points that can refine your search for the right attorney can be found below.
Experience in Handling Truck Accident Cases
This point allows you to judge the lawyer’s general experience and, specifically, their familiarity with truck accident cases. They should be familiar with the complexity and subtleties of these types of situations.
Finding out if the attorney has a history of winning cases comparable to yours is essential. Inquire about their past successes and settlements to assess their ability to achieve favorable outcomes.
Are They Licensed to Practice Law in Missouri?
It is imperative that the lawyer you want to hire is licensed to practice in the state of Missouri. The Missouri Board of Law Examiners regulates admission to the bar. In order to become a licensed attorney in Missouri, an individual must first obtain an undergraduate pre-law education, take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), attend law school in Missouri, and finally, pass the Missouri State Bar Exam.
Local knowledge and familiarity with the local court system can be advantageous for your case.
Communication Skills
Clear and straight communication is crucial during legal proceedings. You need to be comfortable with the preferred communication methods (phone, email, in-person meetings) and frequency of updates.
It’s critical for you to comprehend your lawyer’s strategy for handling your case.
Are they inclined more toward negotiations, or do they fancy trials as their modus operandi? Whoever you hire should be adept at both processes.
Moreover, your lawyer needs to be responsive and accessible when you have questions or concerns in the future.
Fee Structure
Be very clear about the lawyer’s billing policies and price schedule. Some lawyers may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case, while others may charge an hourly rate or a combination of both.
Clear out any potential extra fees or expenses connected to your case.
Conclusion
It’s essential to work with a knowledgeable and experienced truck accident attorney in St. Louis to successfully manage the legal complexity and demand just recompense for your harm and losses.
With the right truck accident lawyer by your side, you can have confidence in your legal representation and increase your chances of a successful outcome for your case.