Were you injured in a truck accident? This guide provides actionable steps to follow so you can better take action. It explains how a Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer works diligently to help improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
While our mission is to help you receive fair compensation, we do not suggest that a quick payout is guaranteed. After all, this isn’t a lottery. The settlement funds we may help you secure are not part of a get‑rich‑quick scheme, contrary to what some TV lawyers might imply. We partner with you by recognizing your intrinsic value as a person, rather than merely viewing you as a quick settlement opportunity.
With over 50 years of combined legal experience in truck accident cases, Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys has secured millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. We understand the effort required to get results, and our consistent, personalized approach reflects that.
From your initial consultation to the final closing of your case, we strive to make you feel heard, informed, and cared for as we work towards the goal of achieving fair compensation. If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident, consider placing your trust in Mann Wyatt Tanksley.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
Contact the authorities immediately so you, or other in need of care, can be cared for medically. Furthermore, the authorities can properly investigate the collision. They will take witness statements, help you file a report, and gather evidence at the scene.
The police’s efforts to collect evidence can be vital in establishing fault against the other party. However, this does not mean you should concede any fault if it is not warranted by the facts. Remember to remain respectful and stick strictly to the facts, as all your statements will become part of the police report. This includes comments about the extent of your injuries, which might not be fully clear until after a medical evaluation. Insurance companies can later use these statements to try to reduce your compensation.
Gather as much information as possible—this evidence can improve the police report or reveal additional details that might have been missed. Consider doing the following:
• Capture photographs.
• Exchange contact details with the other driver.
• Obtain contact information from any witnesses.
• Write down everything you recall about the incident.
Keep in mind that memory distortion can occur over time, so it is best to have more evidence rather than less.
It is common for accident victims to experience little immediate pain due to the surge of adrenaline and endorphins. Insurance companies may contact you early and record your initial statements about your injuries. To be safe, have a doctor perform the appropriate diagnostic tests to detect any hidden issues, such as internal bleeding. Early detection can be vital for your recovery.
Contact your insurance company to file a claim for your truck accident, especially if your policy includes benefits. Be cautious with your words when speaking to an adjuster—even from your own insurer—as they may record the conversation and later use your statements to limit your compensation.
Even if the insurance company’s offer appears fair, you have the right to a second opinion. Mann Wyatt Tanksley offers a free consultation during which we review your legal options and determine if additional compensation could be pursued.
What to Expect in Your Free Consultation
During your free consultation with a Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer, we will explain the damages available in your case. Keep in mind that our objective is to secure monetary compensation for your losses and legal damages to assist in your recovery, not to provide a “get rich quick” outcome. Our aim is for the insurance company to treat you fairly and compensate you adequately.
Let’s break down damages into three categories:
1. Economic Damages
2. Non‑Economic Damages
3. Punitive Damages
Economic Damages
Economic damages refer to measurable losses, such as medical bills or lost wages, which you can document with records like receipts, invoices, and bills.
You may be eligible for compensation for various costs, including:
- Medications
- Hospitalization
- Surgical procedures
- Physical therapy
- Ongoing treatments
- Potential future medical expenses
Compensation might cover income lost from time off work, including:
- Immediate lost wages following the accident
- Future earnings that may be reduced due to the long‑term effects of your injuries.
You could be eligible for reimbursement for repairs to your vehicle or for the total loss of the vehicle is not repairable or if repairs are not cost‑effective relative to its value.
Non-Economic Damages
Valuing non-economic damages can be challenging, but consider the immeasurable worth of your quality of life. These damages are intended to compensate you for the pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment that resulted from your injuries.
- Loss of the Enjoyment of Life
- The opportunities you once had to enjoy life fully may have been significantly diminished as a result of your injuries.
2. Pain & Suffering
- The mental distress arising from your injuries
- Scarring or disfigurement
- The physical pain experienced during and after the accident
3. Emotional Distress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Symptoms of post‑traumatic stress
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages apply only in certain situations and depend on the behavior of the at‑fault party. If the defendant’s actions were extremely reckless and resulted in bodily harm, punitive damages might be considered in your case. These damages are intended to penalize the defendant for their conduct. Speaking with an attorney can help clarify which damages you may pursue for your truck accident injury.
Generally, it is advisable not to face the insurance company alone; having a legal team in the Kansas City area can be beneficial in pursuing fair compensation and justice.
The Pyramid We Use to Establish Fault
Now that you have an overview of the potentially recoverable damages, let us explain our method for legally establishing fault at Mann Wyatt Tanksley. We’ll outline our approach with a three-layer pyramid. Each layer becomes progressively more focused, finally demonstrating fault on the defendant.
The Process of Fault – Layer 1
In legal terms, negligence equates to fault, and proving negligence involves four key steps. In this context, you are the plaintiff and the responsible party is the defendant:
1. Duty – An obligation to act in a certain manner.
2. Breach of Duty – Failure to meet that obligation.
3. Damages – The failure directly resulted in an injury.
4. Causation – The breach is the cause of the injury.
Determining Liability – Layer 2
The second layer involves identifying the liable party. Every party is expected to adhere to specific duties, such as the duty to drive in a reasonable manner, and a breach can provide grounds for a lawsuit.
For example:
- Truck drivers may be held liable if they cause an accident as they did not keep a proper look out for other vehicles.
- Trucking companies might push state and federal regulations, potentially forcing drivers to exceed legal hours, which can lead to fatigue-related errors.
- Shipping companies could be liable if they knowingly allow unqualified drivers to operate.
- Truck mechanics may be responsible if a failure in testing or inspection leads to an accident.
The Underlying Causes – Layer 3
In the final layer, we assess the causation that contributed to a truck accident injury.
Common contributing factors include:
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Alcohol or drug impairment
- Mechanical failures
- Insufficient training
- Improper loading practices
- Adverse weather conditions
It's crucial to have a Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer on your side. Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys is dedicated to getting things done.
Why Choose Us for Your Kansas City Truck Accident
Our team knows that when you look for Kansas City truck accident lawyers, you want a team with results. We work hard to get the best compensation possible. This has resulted in many multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. Consider some of our case outcomes:
- $3,150,000 – Truck Collision
- $2,000,000 – Truck Accident Settlement
- $500,000 – Truck Accident Jury Verdict
Over the years, we have continually honed our trial skills and emerged with a proven track record of success. We stay current with the latest trucking laws and accident investigation techniques, which enables us to build a strong case on your behalf.
“Our trial experience gives us a significant advantage over most other injury lawyers. When the insurance companies and defense attorney know that we will not only go to a jury trial, but have the real ability to win for our clients, it puts the insurance companies and insureds at risk when they play games and don’t offer fair compensation. It’s our ability to go to trial and track record for success that often leads to resolving cases outside of court.” Mike Wyatt, Partner at Mann, Wyatt & Tanksley
Free Case Estimate – Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer
If you believe that Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys could help you with your case—or if you simply have a legal question—please get in touch! We offer a free case estimate where we discuss the specifics of your situation and determine whether you may be eligible for more compensation than the insurance company’s initial offer. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless you do. Our expertise, time, and resources are provided without any upfront or hourly charges. Call 1 (877) 388‑8555 to schedule your free case estimate.
Disclaimer: Even with diligent and zealous representation, not all cases can be won. Every case is different and results are based on specific factual and legal circumstances, and similar results may not be obtained in your case. Our past performance is no guarantee of future results.