Trucking companies are often utilized to transport these chemicals from one of these facilities to another.
We rely on chemicals often in our everyday lives. Many of them are beneficial, such as ones that simplify household chores. However, there are many chemicals that are hazardous, especially when used or released improperly. Hazards sometimes occur when these chemicals are transported from one place to another.
There are approximately 4.5 million facilities in the United States where hazardous materials are either manufactured, stored or used. Trucking companies are often utilized to transport these chemicals from one of these facilities to another. As a result, the laws heavily regulate HAZMAT carriers.
It is estimated that as many as 500,000 truck accidents happen each year. Some of these involve trucks carrying hazardous materials. These types of accidents can be very serious. In some cases people may survive the actual truck accident but may have injuries due to fires caused by the cargo or from chemical spills. Therefore it can often be reasoned that had the truck not been carrying a hazardous material, the accident may not have resulted in such injuries.
In this situation, the shipper of the goods, as well as the truck driver, may be liable. It may be that the shipper did not inform the trucking company of the nature of the cargo. I could also be that the trucking company was not adequately trained or qualified to carry such goods. In addition, the truck may not have been properly labeled, not giving sufficient warning of what it was carrying.
Missouri Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck accident you may feel helpless. The physical and financial consequences of such an accident can be devastating. At the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann we will fight to make sure that the trucking company is held responsible for their failure. We are experienced Truck Accident Lawyers who know how to win against trucking companies. Call us today at (314) 361-4300 for a free and private consultation.