Kansas City Truck Accident Attorneys

Trusted Legal Representation for Semi-Truck & 18-Wheeler Accident Victims in Kansas City, MO

Truck accidents are some of the most devastating collisions on Missouri roadways. When a fully loaded tractor-trailer weighing up to 80,000 pounds strikes a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Medical bills stack up quickly, victims frequently suffer life-altering injuries, and insurance companies immediately begin building a defense to limit their payout.

At Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman, Chtd., we represent victims of devastating truck accidents in Kansas City and the surrounding areas. Our firm has secured some of the largest settlements and verdicts on behalf of truck accident victims in the area, including a record-breaking $23.5 million verdict in Kansas, believed to be the highest accident verdict in the state’s history. In total, we have recovered well over half a billion dollars for injured individuals and their families. Take a look at our client testimonials and see why our clients trust us for all of their injury claims.

If you or someone you love was involved in a collision with a semi or 18-wheeler, contact our Kansas City truck accident lawyers at (816) 542-5999 for a free consultation.

Common Types of Semi-Truck Accidents

Commercial trucks operate differently than passenger vehicles, which contributes to unique and dangerous accident types. Common truck crashes in Kansas City include:

• Jackknife Accidents: A truck jackknifes when the trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle, often due to improper braking, speeding, or slippery roads.
• Rear-End Collisions: Because semi-trucks require long stopping distances, tailgating or distracted driving can cause catastrophic rear-end accidents.
• Underride Accidents: These occur when a smaller vehicle slides beneath a truck’s trailer, often resulting in fatal or permanent injuries.
• Rollover Accidents: High winds, speeding, or unbalanced cargo loads can cause a tractor-trailer to roll over, endangering multiple motorists.
• Tire Blowouts: A blown truck tire can lead to loss of control, swerving, and debris-related crashes.
• Wide-Turn Crashes: Large trucks need extra space to turn, particularly right turns. Improper turn technique can trap or crush nearby vehicles.
• Lost Load Accidents: When cargo is not properly secured, it can spill onto the roadway, causing multi-vehicle collisions.

Common Causes of Big Rig Accidents

Many truck accidents are preventable and occur because someone acted carelessly or violated safety regulations. Frequent causes include:

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours. Even with federal limits, fatigue leads to slowed reaction times and poor judgment.
• Distracted Driving: Cellphone use, GPS devices, radios, and in-cab technology frequently contribute to crashes.
• Speeding & Aggressive Driving: Trucks traveling too fast for road or weather conditions significantly increase the risk of severe collisions.
• Improper Training: Some trucking companies put unqualified or inexperienced drivers behind the wheel, creating dangerous conditions.
• Mechanical Failures: Brake issues, worn tires, and engine problems often trace back to neglected maintenance.
• Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo: Excessive weight or unbalanced loads can cause rollovers, jackknifing, or loss of control.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug use—particularly stimulants used to stay awake—remains a significant risk factor.

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries

Due to the size and weight of semi-trucks, accident victims often suffer severe or permanent injuries, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage or paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Severe burns or disfigurement
• Internal organ injuries
• Amputations
• Wrongful death

These injuries usually require long-term medical care, extensive rehabilitation, and may permanently impact your ability to work or enjoy daily life. Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman ensures your full damages—including future costs—are accounted for in your claim.

Contact our truck accident attorneys today by calling (816) 542-5999 to schedule an initial consultation, and to learn more information on the legal procedures related to personal injury.

Where Do Truck Accidents Often Occur in Kansas City?

Kansas City is a major transportation hub, and several highways and industrial areas see frequent truck traffic. Many truck accidents occur on:

I-70

A major east–west freight corridor with heavy commercial trucking activity.

I-435 Loop

A hotspot for merging accidents, congestion, and high-speed collisions.

I-35

Often congested with commercial vehicles, especially near downtown and industrial zones.

Highway 71 / I-49

Frequent commuter and freight traffic leads to regular crash activity.

Industrial & Warehouse Districts

Areas near the stockyards, Fairfax District, and logistics hubs are common sites for delivery truck and semi-truck collisions.

No matter where your accident occurred, our team investigates thoroughly to determine fault and pursue maximum compensation.

Federal Trucking Laws

Truck drivers and trucking companies must comply with strict federal laws enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations include:

Hours-of-Service (HOS) Limits

Truckers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. They may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, following 10 consecutive hours off duty; off-duty time does not extend the 14-hour period. They may not drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days; a driver may restart a 7/8 consecutive day period after taking 34 or more consecutive hours off duty

Drug & Alcohol Testing Requirements

Mandatory testing before employment, at random intervals, and after crashes.

Maintenance & Inspection Standards

Trucks must undergo routine inspections to ensure safe operation.

Cargo Securement Rules

Regulations governing how loads must be strapped, tied, or stabilized.

Driver Qualification Requirements

Drivers must maintain a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and meet training standards.

When a trucking company or driver violates federal laws, they can be held liable for the resulting accident. Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman obtains driver logs, black box data, maintenance records, and other critical evidence to build a strong case.

Truck Accident FAQs

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

Missouri’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is five years from the date of the accident, but evidence disappears quickly—so it’s best to contact an attorney immediately.

Who can be held liable for a truck accident?

Liable parties may include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• Cargo loaders
• Vehicle or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance contractors

What compensation can I recover?

You may be entitled to damages for:

• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Future medical care
• Property damage
• Wrongful death damages (if applicable)

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance?

No. Their goal is to minimize your claim. Always speak with a lawyer first.

Do truck accident cases take longer than car accident cases?

Often yes. Trucking cases involve multiple defendants, extensive evidence, and complex regulations.

Contact a Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you were injured in a semi-truck or 18-wheeler crash, you deserve aggressive advocates who will fight for your rights. Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman has the experience, resources, and dedication needed to take on large trucking companies and insurance carriers.

Recommended Reading:

• Where Are a Trucker’s Blind Spots?
• How to Pass a Semi-Truck
• What is a Runaway Truck?
• How To Prevent a Trucking Accident
• Will This New Safety Program Make Better Truck Drivers?

Please contact our firm online or call us at (816) 542-5999 to schedule your free initial case evaluation with our Kansas City truck accident lawyer.