The trucking industry is a vital component of the Knoxville economy. Unfortunately, trucks are also involved in some of the most severe accidents in the city. Any type of collision that involves a semi-truck, eighteen-wheeler, tractor-trailer, or commercial delivery truck can result in catastrophic or fatal accidents.
If you or a loved one was involved in a truck accident, you can benefit from consulting a truck accident lawyer in Knoxville, TN. At Meyers Injury Law, we focus on truck accident cases. Our Knoxville truck accident attorneys have the experience, in-depth legal knowledge, and dedication required to ensure truck accident victims get the justice they deserve.
Types Of Truck Accidents And Their Causes
Truck accidents happen due to various reasons, resulting in different types of accidents. The most common types of truck accidents include rear-end collisions, jackknife accidents, rollover accidents, and underride accidents. A jackknife accident happens when the trailer swings out to the side and into the truck due to slippery road conditions, sudden braking, or equipment failure.
Even a small truck malfunction can cause a catastrophic accident. For example, a tire blowout can cause the truck driver to lose control of the vehicle. Other types of mechanical failures, such as worn-out brake pads can cause truck accidents.
As trucks often need more space to turn, small vehicles can get caught in the truck’s path during the turn. Any type of collision of a small vehicle with a large truck can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. Truck collisions with a motorcyclist, cyclist, or pedestrian can cause even more severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries.
Knoxville Laws and Regulations for Truck Accidents
It is important that you understand that the trucking industry is highly regulated and subject to state and federal laws. The safety standards for commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) are set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR). This includes all trucks passing through Tennessee. In addition to the FMCSR, truck accident cases are also governed by Tennessee state laws that offer extra protection for victims, including residents and visitors in the state.
The laws, rules, and regulations protect all road users. All road users have to follow the law, otherwise, they face legal penalties for negligence or intentional wrongdoing. Truck drivers and trucking companies have to abide by strict rules to ensure they don’t cause harm to other road users.
Truck drivers are not allowed to drive more than 60 hours a week and 70 hours within a consecutive 8-day period. There are several requirements, including cargo load restrictions, that the truck driver needs to follow. These rules reduce the chance of driver fatigue, which is one of the top causes of truck accidents in Tennessee. The fleet is also subject to strict laws and regulations.
If you are planning to initiate legal action for a trucking accident in Tennessee, you should know that there is a statute of limitations that defines the maximum time frame you have to take legal action. Generally, personal injury cases in Tennessee, including those that involve a truck collision, have a statute of limitations of one year from the date of the accident.
It is important to understand these laws and regulations as the outcome of your truck accident case could rely heavily on whether the truck driver or motor carrier is guilty of violating any of these laws. A Knoxville truck accident attorney can help you understand the laws and regulations that apply to your truck accident claim.
What To Do After A Truck Accident in Knoxville
In the immediate aftermath of a truck accident, your priority should be your safety and the safety of others involved in the truck crash. If you suffer injuries, you must get medical attention. If you are in stable condition at the crash site, you can start gathering evidence, such as contact information of eyewitnesses to the crash, photos of the accident scene, and other evidence that is relevant to your case and can help support your claim.
In truck accidents, you should call 911 to ensure the police are on their way and once they arrive at the scene, you should cooperate with them. Their incident report can be crucial to the outcome of your truck accident case.
You may also need to notify your insurance provider about the truck collision and contact one of our truck collision attorneys in Knoxville to get legal guidance on steps to take to protect your rights.
Knoxville Truck Accident Compensation
Truck accident cases generally involve serious property damage or severe injuries, and as a result, the compensation for such accidents can be significantly more compared to car accidents. However, each accident is unique, and would have to consider the facts and circumstances of your case to determine what compensation to expect. One of our Knoxville truck accident lawyers at Meyers Injury Law can help you determine what damages you should seek in your claim.
Generally, truck accident victims can receive compensation for the following damages in truck accident claims:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Disability and impairment
- Wrongful death benefits
- Punitive damages
Consult An Experienced Knoxville Truck Accident Lawyer
Being involved in a truck accident is often a traumatic experience. It can completely disrupt your life. Allow us at Meyers Injury Law to help you with all the legal aspects of the case. We can guide you every step of the way, ensuring you don’t make mistakes that can undermine your case. Our team is well-versed in federal and state laws in truck accident cases and has the experience to fight for your rights. Time is of the essence in your truck accident case in Knoxville. If you have been a victim of a truck collision, you need to take swift action to protect your rights and ensure you get maximum compensation.You can contact us to schedule an appointment with our Knoxville semi-truck accident lawyer.
To explore additional Knoxville practice areas at Meyers Injury Law, including personal injury cases in Knoxville, or to schedule a complimentary consultation, we invite you to reach out to our team.
