TRUCK ACCIDENTS
Knoxville truck accident lawyers.
Collisions involving tractor-trailers and other commercial vehicles can cause severe injuries and raise questions that do not appear in an ordinary two-car wreck.
Why can a commercial-truck case be different?
A truck wreck may involve more than the driver. Depending on the facts, relevant parties and evidence can include the motor carrier, vehicle owner, maintenance providers, cargo-related entities and insurers. Commercial vehicles are also subject to federal and state safety rules that may matter to the investigation.
Evidence can disappear.
Electronic data, driver records, inspection and maintenance materials, dispatch information, photographs and video may become important. Prompt investigation can help identify what information exists and how it should be preserved.
Who may be responsible?
Responsibility depends on the evidence. Issues may include driver conduct, hiring or supervision, vehicle maintenance, loading, company practices and the conduct of other motorists. The presence of a commercial vehicle does not automatically establish fault.
What if the trucking company’s insurer contacts you?
You may hear from an insurer or representative soon after a serious collision. Be cautious about broad authorizations, detailed recorded statements and settlement documents before you understand what is being requested and the extent of your injuries.
What losses can be part of a truck-accident claim?
Depending on the case, legally recoverable losses may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage and other damages recognized by Tennessee law. Serious injuries can also raise questions about future treatment or long-term limitations.
What is the Tennessee deadline?
Tennessee generally requires actions for injuries to the person to be commenced within one year after the cause of action accrues. Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-104 contains exceptions, and particular circumstances can affect a deadline.
What should you do after a commercial-truck collision?
Attend to medical needs, report the crash, preserve photographs and witness information, save insurance correspondence and avoid disposing of potentially relevant evidence. Our post-crash guide provides a practical starting point.
For related information, see our Knoxville car accident lawyer page and our Tennessee uninsured and underinsured motorist guide.
Talk with us about a truck wreck.
Start with a free initial phone consultation. Tell us what happened and we can discuss whether McKeehan Law Group may be able to help.