Transportation Liability

Coffey, Senger, Hancock & Harmon (CSHH) offers specialized legal representation in transportation liability, providing tailored solutions to clients throughout Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. With extensive experience across the transportation sector, we understand the complexities of the legal and regulatory landscape governing commercial and private transportation. Our team is committed to protecting our clients’ interests through comprehensive legal strategies and unparalleled expertise.

What Is Transportation Liability?

Transportation liability involves a wide range of legal challenges for businesses and individuals alike. From catastrophic accidents to regulatory compliance, our attorneys are equipped to manage every aspect of transportation-related litigation and advisory services.

We represent:

  • National and regional trucking companies
  • Highway construction contractors
  • Rideshare operators
  • Bus companies
  • Logistics providers and freight carriers

Our expertise extends across personal injury cases, property damage disputes, and regulatory compliance issues.

Services We Provide

Catastrophic Injury & Wrongful Death Claims

Accidents involving commercial transportation often result in severe injuries or fatalities. Our compassionate and assertive approach ensures that victims and families are represented with care, and businesses facing claims have a thorough defense. We specialize in navigating sensitive litigation with a focus on achieving just outcomes.

Commercial Vehicle Accident Defense

We handle claims related to accidents involving:

  • Tractor-trailers
  • Big rigs
  • Hazardous materials transport

Our team conducts detailed investigations into each incident, leveraging accident reconstruction experts and industry knowledge to minimize liability.

Construction & Highway Liability

Highway construction projects often involve complex liability issues, especially in the event of accidents. We address claims arising from unsafe work zones, defective signage, or improper road closures while ensuring compliance with Oklahoma’s safety standards.

Freight & Cargo Claims

Transportation companies rely on us to handle claims involving freight damage or loss. We aim to resolve disputes efficiently, minimizing interruptions to business operations.

Rideshare & Emergency Transportation Technologies

As ridesharing and autonomous vehicles become more prevalent, new liability concerns arise. We stay ahead of legal trends to provide our clients with proactive guidance and defense.

Strategic Defense in Transportation Lability

Regulatory Compliance and Industry Guidance

Transportation businesses face a complex web of federal, state, and local regulations. Our attorneys help clients navigate these requirements, ensuring full compliance with:

  • Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards
  • Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) regulations
  • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) guidelines

Our proactive compliance strategies help reduce the risk of fines and litigation.

24-Hour Emergency Incident Response

In transportation liability cases, swift action is critical. Our 24-Hour Major Incident Response Team ensures immediate deployment of attorneys, independent adjusters, and accident reconstruction experts to preserve evidence and mitigate exposure. We work closely with clients from the moment an incident occurs, developing a strong defense and protecting their reputation.

State-Specific Legal Considerations

Transportation liability laws vary significantly across states, and businesses operating in the region must navigate these complexities to ensure compliance and minimize risks.

Oklahoma

  1. Comparative Negligence System
    Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence system, where damages are reduced based on the plaintiff’s percentage of fault. If the plaintiff is found to be 51% or more at fault, they cannot recover damages. This system emphasizes the need for strategic defense to mitigate liability.
  2. Direct Negligence Claims
    Oklahoma allows claims such as negligent hiring, retention, or entrustment, even when vicarious liability is admitted. This creates an additional layer of exposure for employers and requires robust compliance and training programs.
  3. Oil and Gas Transport Issues
    As a hub for the oil and gas industry, Oklahoma presents unique challenges for transportation companies handling hazardous materials. Strict adherence to Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations is essential to mitigate risks.

Kansas

  1. Pure Comparative Negligence
    Kansas uses a pure comparative negligence system, allowing plaintiffs to recover damages even if they are primarily at fault. However, the recovery amount is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the plaintiff. This legal framework requires thorough evidence collection and defense strategies.
  2. Grain and Agricultural Transport
    With agriculture as a cornerstone of Kansas’s economy, transportation companies often face liability related to grain, livestock, and equipment transport. Compliance with Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) regulations and careful adherence to safety standards are critical.
  3. Statute of Limitations
    Kansas imposes a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including transportation-related incidents. Prompt investigation and legal action are essential to preserve defenses.

Missouri

  1. Pure Comparative Negligence
    Similar to Kansas, Missouri follows a pure comparative negligence system, where damages are apportioned based on fault. Plaintiffs can recover damages even if they bear a majority of the fault, increasing the need for robust defense strategies.
  2. State-Specific Trucking Regulations
    Missouri imposes additional regulations for oversized or overweight vehicles, particularly in its heavily traveled corridors. Ensuring compliance with Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) permits and guidelines is vital to avoid fines and liability.
  3. Tort Reform Considerations
    Missouri has enacted tort reform laws, including caps on noneconomic damage in certain cases. Understanding how these caps apply can significantly affect defense strategies in personal injury and wrongful death claims.

Why Choose Us for Construction Law?

KEY ADVANTAGES:

  • Regional Expertise: In-depth knowledge of laws and industry-specific challenges in each state.
  • Comprehensive Defense: Proactive strategies to minimize exposure and liability in comparative negligence cases.
  • Industry Partnerships: Collaboration with state and federal regulators to ensure compliance and avoid disruptions.

Our attorneys at CSHH have deep experience navigating the distinct legal landscapes of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. With a thorough understanding of state-specific laws and regulations, we provide tailored strategies to protect transportation companies from liability and ensure compliance across state lines.

For businesses operating in multiple states, our team offers seamless legal solutions to help you focus on your operations while we handle your legal needs. Contact us today to learn how we can protect your interests and support your success.

Contact CSHH for Construction Law Services

If you need legal guidance or representation in construction law, trust the experienced attorneys at CSHH to protect your interests and support your business goals.

918-292-8787

Toll-Free: 844-292-8787