Large trucks, defined as trucks weighing in excess of 10,000 lbs, are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) which was established by Congress in 2000. The FMCSA is authorized by the federal government to oversee compliance with the commercial driver’s license standards for drivers and carriers. It provides regulations that govern the operation of a large truck.

Being in a collision with a truck, especially one used for long-haul deliveries, has different implications than colliding with a passenger vehicle. When a 30,000-pound truck strikes a 3,000-pound car, it is no surprise who usually suffers the brunt of the impact. The resulting damages can be costly, life-altering, and in some cases, deadly. If you were injured or a loved one passed away due to an accident involving a tractor trailer or bus, you may be able to seek compensation to cover your accident-related expenses. The Cochran Firm represents those who have been injured in tractor trailer, bus, and large truck accidents. We can investigate liability, negotiate for a fair settlement, and serve as your legal advocate. To get started with a free case evaluation, call 615-651-7451.

Tractor Trailer Truck Accidents Can Leave You Seriously Injured

According to Tennessee Traffic Crash Data from the Department of Safety & Homeland Security, Davidson County has the number one crash rate of all Tennessee counties between the years 2015 and 2019. This data suggests that trucks are a noteworthy piece of the county’s crash statistics.

Some of the outcomes of a truck accident may include:

  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Permanent paralysis or limited mobility
  • Broken bones
  • Concussion
  • Whiplash
  • Cuts and lacerations
  • Internal bleeding
  • Loss of consciousness

Following any kind of accident, you should seek immediate medical attention if you have not done so already. Be sure to keep any documentation relating to your diagnosis, including imaging scans, lab results, intake forms, and other relevant paperwork. In the long run, these may prove useful in determining liability.

Other Truck Accident Losses

There are several direct and secondary effects that can arise from a truck accident, many of which may further impact your physical, psychological, and financial wellbeing.

Some of the ripple effects of a truck accident may include:

  • Time missed from work due to a prolonged recovery period or physical limitations
  • A lengthy period of confinement in a hospital
  • A series of surgeries required to treat your condition
  • Rehabilitation to facilitate your recovery
  • Downturns in your emotional and psychological health, which could lead to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts
  • Extensive childcare costs, if your condition leaves you unable to properly care for your family

These effects can lead to a cycle of financial expenses that can affect your quality of life for years to come. A Nashville truck accident lawyer can provide support during this challenging time by pursuing the compensation you need.

Negligence is Grounds for Legal Action

Most successful personal injury cases rest on proving negligence. In your Nashville truck accident, your legal team may need to establish that the other motorist in question violated their duty of care and caused your injuries.

Some crash risk factors for truckers include:

  • A requirement that they travel long distances over substantial periods, leading to fatigue
  • Using stimulants to stay awake
  • Breaching the government-mandated Hours of Service Regulations
  • Inexperience or not being properly licensed to drive a commercial vehicle
  • Distracted driving, such as texting or using a dispatch device
  • Speeding to meet delivery quotas or “by the mile” incentives

Sometimes in a truck accident, negligence does not rest solely on the negligent trucker; it could also rest with their employer. Private and public companies that employ truck drivers have several responsibilities to protect other drivers from harm. Failure to uphold these obligations may ultimately make them liable for any resulting damages.

These responsibilities include:

  • Conducting thorough background checks for every driver
  • Training new or inexperienced drivers
  • Conducting regular, thorough drug testing
  • Ensuring that every truck is road-worthy
  • Ensuring that no truck is overloaded with cargo
  • Creating a culture of safety and compliance and taking actions to ensure that all drivers act in a professional manner while on the job

Depending on the circumstances of your case, a driver and their employer could both be liable for losses that you have incurred. Call our team at The Cochran Firm - Nashville today at 615-651-7451 to get your case started.

Suggested Actions to Take After Involvement in a Truck Accident

If you or someone you know is involved in a tractor-trailer accident, here are some tips:

1. Remain at the Scene of the Accident

Wait for a police officer, so that the officer can write a report on the facts of the wreck. Without a police report, it can be difficult to determine liability. It is also important to obtain contact information with the other driver, witnesses or other involved parties.

2. Contact Authorities

Besides contacting the police, you may need to have paramedics transport you or other injured individuals to a hospital.

3. Get Medical Attention

Even if you do not believe that you are injured, you should still be evaluated by a medical professional. Delay in being seen by a doctor can hurt your chances of obtaining just compensation.

4. Gather Evidence

Evidence can include photographs of the accident, your injuries, other property damage, driver license information, license plate numbers, witness statements, medical records, and the police report.

Turn to a Lawyer in Your Time of Need

A Nashville truck accident lawyer should provide the peace of mind that comes with pursuing compensation.

After your free case review, a lawyer can begin setting your case in motion by:

  • Handling all communication with the involved parties and their insurance companies
  • Collecting evidence such as police reports, crash scene photographs, witness testimony, and any video of the accident
  • Investigating the circumstances surrounding your accident to assign liability
  • Exploring options for a settlement, and relaying such options to you
  • Seeing your case through a trial if a trial proves necessary
  • Serving as your advocate throughout the legal proceedings

You likely have several expenses and losses for which you may be entitled to compensation. The Cochran Firm - Nashville believes that no one should have to pay for their accident-related expenses if their injuries were caused by another party’s negligence. Get started with a free case review today.

Call Our Team at The Cochran Firm - Nashville

We hope to use the resources of The Cochran Firm in helping you seek financial recovery.

We encourage you to seek legal assistance as soon as you are able, since you may not have long to act under Tennessee’s statute of limitations. Call our team at The Cochran Firm - Nashville today at 615-651-7451 for a free consultation.