When many Missouri readers hear that a tractor-trailer has been involved in an accident, they may instinctively draw the conclusion that the driver of the tractor-trailer was negligent or being too aggressive toward other drivers. Unfortunately, truck accidents can be caused by other drivers as well, and can result in injuries to the truck driver. One recent such accident on U.S. Route 36 illustrates just how unfortunate these accidents can be, no matter who is at fault.

According to reports, a tractor-trailer was traveling westbound on U.S. 36 when a pickup truck towing a trailer and boat changed lanes in front of the tractor-trailer. The truck driver was unable to avoid striking the back of the trailer, which caused both vehicles to leave the roadway. The pickup truck and trailer returned to the roadway before stopping in the median. The tractor-trailer caught fire and the entire truck was engulfed in flames.

The driver of the tractor-trailer, identified as a 61-year-old man, was transported to a local hospital with injuries described as moderate. The exact nature and extent of his injuries has not been updated. Additionally, reports following the accident have not stated whether the driver of the pickup truck was injured. Highway Patrol and local Sheriff’s officials have been investigating exactly what led to this accident.

Drivers of any vehicle are tasked with obeying traffic laws and being mindful and aware of other drivers. When drivers are negligent in their actions and attention to the road, they endanger the lives of those around them. Fortunately, Missouri has personal injury laws in place to help ease the pain of truck accidents like this one. Under these laws, anyone injured on a Missouri roadway due to the negligence of another party may be eligible to seek compensation for their injuries and financial losses stemming from the accident. Though in this case it is too soon to tell whether such claims will be applicable, it may benefit both drivers to begin investigating their rights and options.

Source: The Caldwell County News, “Wreck on 36 snarls traffic, sends Liberty truck driver to hospital,” July 11, 2013