Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck collisions can result from a variety of scenarios, with most of them relating to driver negligence. Truck drivers are under immense pressure from their employers to travel lengthy distances within a certain amount of time, and they are known to sometimes cut corners in order to meet their deadlines. This could mean forgoing certain safety procedures or driving in a careless manner to reach their destination quickly.
The following can all contribute to a truck accident:
- Improper truck maintenance
- Driving extended periods without rest
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Improper loading of cargo
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Failing to check blind spots
Recovering Damages After a Truck Accident in Franklin
Truck accidents can cause a wide variety of debilitating injuries, including broken bones, whiplash, paralysis, and sometimes death. Depending on the severity of your injuries, compensation will vary.
With our Franklin truck accident attorneys' help, you may be able to recover compensation for the following damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Lost property
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of earning potential
It is highly recommended that you consult with me to get a more accurate representation of the amount of compensation your situation warrants. Upon a detailed examination of your situation, our Franklin truck accident attorney can help determine the most appropriate course of action.
In many cases, a serious crash with a tractor-trailer leaves you facing immediate medical bills, time away from work, and uncertainty about how you will support your family. When I evaluate your losses, I look not only at your current expenses but also at future treatment needs, reduced earning capacity, and the impact on your day-to-day life so that your claim reflects the full extent of what you have suffered.
Understanding Liability in Truck Accidents
Truck accidents can result in serious injuries and damages, and determining liability in these cases can be complex. Our experienced truck accident lawyers at Julia E. Stovall Attorney At Law in Franklin, TN, have the knowledge and background to help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.
When it comes to truck accident liability, there are several parties that may be held responsible, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The truck manufacturer
- The cargo loaders
- Other negligent parties
Key factors we review when assessing liability include::
- Driver conduct: Whether the driver was fatigued, distracted, impaired, or violating hours-of-service rules at the time of the crash.
- Company practices: Hiring, training, dispatch policies, and any pressure placed on drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules.
- Vehicle condition: Maintenance records, prior defects, brake issues, and whether required inspections were completed.
- Cargo handling: How the load was secured, balanced, and documented, especially in rollover or jackknife accidents.
- Road and traffic conditions: Weather, construction zones, and traffic patterns on routes such as I-65 or I-840 near Franklin.
By thoroughly investigating the circumstances of the accident, collecting evidence, and building a strong case, we can help you hold the at-fault parties accountable for their actions. Contact my office today for a free consultation to discuss your truck accident claim.
Liability can also be affected by where and how the wreck occurred, such as a jackknife on I-840 involving multiple vehicles or a rear-end collision with a big rig in heavy traffic near downtown Franklin. As your Franklin Truck Accident Attorney, I work with accident reconstruction professionals, review electronic logging device data, and analyze police reports to show how each party's actions contributed to the crash.
Why You Need Experienced Representation for Trucking Accident Claims
Trucking accidents can result in serious injuries, extensive property damage, and complex legal proceedings. If you've been involved in a trucking accident in Tennessee, it's crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side to navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
At Julia E. Stovall Attorney At Law, we have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in trucking accident claims. Our team understands the unique challenges and regulations involved in these cases, and we're dedicated to advocating for your rights and seeking maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
When you choose our firm, you can expect:
- Personalized attention and support throughout your case
- Thorough investigation and analysis of the accident and its causes
- Negotiation with insurance companies and other parties on your behalf
- Aggressive representation in court, if necessary
In a typical truck accident claim, I can assist you with:
- Explaining your options: Reviewing whether settlement, mediation, or trial is the best path for your situation.
- Coordinating with doctors: Helping you document injuries and treatment from providers in and around Franklin and Williamson County.
- Managing deadlines: Making sure all insurance claims and court filings comply with Tennessee’s legal time limits.
- Preparing you for proceedings: Getting you ready for depositions, mediation sessions, and, if needed, trial in the Williamson County courts.
Because commercial carriers often have large insurance policies and legal teams working to limit what they pay, having a Franklin Truck Accident Lawyer who understands these tactics can help level the playing field. I communicate directly with adjusters and defense counsel so you can focus on healing, and I keep you informed about every offer and option so that you can make confident decisions about settlement versus taking your case to trial.
Steps To Take After a Franklin Truck Accident
Knowing what to do in the hours and days after a serious truck crash can make a real difference in both your physical recovery and the strength of your legal claim. After you receive emergency care, it is helpful to follow through with recommended treatment, save all bills and records, and avoid posting about the wreck on social media while your case is pending. If your collision happened on a major route like I-65 or near downtown Franklin, there may be multiple responding agencies, so keeping copies of any reports or paperwork you are given will help me piece together a clear picture of what occurred.
When you contact me soon after the accident, I can start preserving critical evidence before it is lost, such as photos of the scene, witness contact information, and data from the truck’s electronic control systems. As a semi-truck accident attorney, I can also notify the trucking company and its insurer that you are represented so they communicate through my office, which helps protect you from pressure to give recorded statements or accept a quick settlement that does not fully cover your losses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents in Franklin, TN
What should I do if I've been involved in a truck accident in Franklin, TN?
If you've been in a truck accident, it's important to seek medical attention and contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible. Document the scene, exchange information with the other party, and refrain from discussing the details of the accident with anyone other than the authorities and your attorney.
How is liability determined in a truck accident case?
Liability in a truck accident case can be complex and may involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and potentially others. An experienced attorney can help investigate and determine who may be held responsible for the accident and resulting damages.
What damages can I seek in a truck accident claim?
In a truck accident claim, you may be eligible to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related damages. An attorney can assess your case and help determine the types of damages you may be entitled to pursue.
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Franklin, TN?
The statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim in Tennessee is typically one year from the date of the accident. It's important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney promptly to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines for filing your claim.
What sets apart a skilled truck accident attorney in Franklin, TN?
A skilled truck accident attorney will have extensive experience in handling truck accident cases, a deep understanding of state and federal trucking regulations, and a track record of successfully securing fair compensation for their clients. Look for an attorney who is dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for your best interests.
Contact a Franklin Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Nobody should have to live with the consequences of a negligent truck driver’s actions. I am relentless in the pursuit of justice, and I will see to it that the responsible parties are held accountable for their wrongdoing.
With compassionate representation and personalized care given to each client, you can rest easy knowing that your interests will be protected under my watch.
Take advantage of your free case evaluation today! Contact us online or call our Franklin truck accident lawyer at (615) 239-1374.