Nashville's strategic location makes it a hub for trucking activity, with big rigs frequently traversing major arteries like I-40, I-24, and I-65. These highways, along with busy city streets such as Broadway and West End Avenue, see their fair share of truck-related incidents involving passenger vehicles.
Truck crashes can have a devastating impact on accident victims and their families. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a truck collision on Nashville's roadways, a Nashville truck accident lawyer from Cory Watson Attorneys can help you seek justice and compensation through a truck accident claim.
Contact our truck accident attorneys today to discuss your case during a free and confidential consultation. There is no obligation, and you only pay attorney’s fees if we recover compensation in your case.
Why Choose Cory Watson Attorneys for Your Nashville Truck Accident Claim?
With over 40 years of experience in personal injury law, Cory Watson Attorneys brings a wealth of knowledge to your truck accident case. Our firm has recovered more than $4 Billion for our clients, demonstrating our commitment to securing fair compensation for injury victims. When you choose us to represent you in your Nashville truck accident claim, you're partnering with a team with a proven track record of success against powerful opponents, including Fortune 500 companies.
Our approach to truck accident cases is thorough and client-focused. We understand the complexities involved in these accidents, from investigating the crash scene and analyzing trucking logs to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, litigating in court.
Our Nashville truck accident lawyers are well-versed in federal and state trucking regulations, giving us an edge in building strong cases for our clients. Moreover, our firm's national reach allows us to tap into a vast network of resources and experience, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in pursuit of justice for you.
At Cory Watson Attorneys, we believe in personalized attention. When you entrust us with your case, you're not just another file on our desk—you're a valued client whose well-being is our top priority. We're available 24/7 to address your concerns, answer your questions, and keep you informed about the progress of your case. Our commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation means we'll explore every avenue to maximize your compensation while providing compassionate support throughout the legal process.
Should I Take the First Offer from the Insurance Company After a Nashville Truck Accident?
After a truck accident, you may face mounting medical bills, lost wages or income, and other expenses. During this vulnerable time, insurance companies often swoop in with a quick settlement offer. While accepting their proposal and putting the ordeal behind you might be tempting, doing so could be a costly mistake.
Insurance companies are in the business of maximizing profits, which often means minimizing payouts to accident victims. Their initial offers are typically far below what your claim is actually worth. These companies employ tactics designed to pressure you into accepting a low settlement quickly, hoping you won't consult with a lawyer who can accurately assess the true value of your case.
Accepting the first offer risks leaving significant compensation on the table. Truck accidents often result in severe injuries with long-term consequences that may not be immediately apparent. A seasoned Nashville truck accident lawyer from Cory Watson Attorneys can help you understand the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses, ongoing pain and suffering, and potential lost earning capacity. We have the experience to negotiate effectively with insurance companies and, if necessary, take your case to trial to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Don't let the insurance company's pressure tactics rob you of the compensation you deserve. Before accepting any offer, consult our experienced legal team. We'll provide a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case and advise you on the best course of action to protect your interests.
Do I Have Grounds for a Truck Accident Lawsuit?
If you've been injured in a trucking accident in Nashville, you may be wondering if you have grounds for a lawsuit. The answer often depends on whether we can establish that another party's negligence caused your accident and subsequent injuries. Negligence forms the basis for most personal injury claims, including commercial truck accident cases.
To be successful in a truck accident lawsuit, we must prove four key elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care: We must show that the defendant (the person or entity you're suing) owed you a duty of care. In traffic situations, all drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and follow traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty: Next, we need to demonstrate that the defendant breached this duty. This could involve actions like speeding, running a red light, driving under the influence, or failing to yield the right of way to your vehicle.
- Causation: We must prove that the defendant's breach of duty directly caused your accident and injuries. This means showing a clear link between their negligent action and the harm you suffered.
- Damages: Finally, we need to establish that you incurred actual damages as a result of the accident. These can include medical bills, lost wages or income, pain and suffering, and property damage.
If we can successfully prove all four of these elements, you likely have strong grounds for a Nashville trucking accident lawsuit. However, each case is unique, and the specific circumstances of your accident will determine the strength of your claim.
What if I'm Partly to Blame for My Truck Accident and Injuries?
It's not uncommon for accident victims to worry that they may have contributed to their own injuries in some way. Perhaps you were speeding slightly, or you glanced at your phone momentarily before the collision occurred. You might be concerned that these actions could prevent you from seeking compensation. However, in Tennessee, being partially at fault doesn't necessarily bar you from recovering damages.
Tennessee follows a "modified comparative negligence" rule, also known as the "49% rule." Here's how it works:
- Your degree of fault is assessed: The court or insurance adjusters will determine to what extent each party was responsible for the accident.
- Your compensation may be reduced: If you're found to be partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're found to be 20% at fault, your award would be reduced by 20%.
- The 49% threshold: You can still recover damages as long as you're found to be less than 50% at fault for the accident. If you're 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.
This rule underscores the importance of having skilled legal representation. At Cory Watson Attorneys, our Nashville truck accident lawyers will work diligently to minimize any fault attributed to you and maximize your potential compensation.
Remember that insurance companies may try to shift more blame onto you to reduce their payout. Don't let their tactics intimidate you. Even if you think you might have been partly at fault, it's essential to speak with an experienced attorney before making any statements or accepting any settlement offers.
Who May Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?
Truck accidents often involve complex liability issues due to the many parties involved in commercial trucking operations. Understanding who may be held responsible is crucial for pursuing full compensation for your injuries. At Cory Watson Attorneys, we can thoroughly investigate every aspect of your truck accident to identify all potentially liable parties. Here are some of the entities that may be held responsible:
The Truck Driver
Truck drivers may be liable if their negligence caused the accident. This could include actions such as:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Violating hours-of-service regulations and driving while fatigued
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving, such as texting while driving
- Failing to properly secure cargo
The Trucking Company
Trucking companies can be held responsible for:
- Negligent hiring or retention of drivers with poor safety records
- Inadequate training of drivers
- Encouraging or pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations
- Failing to properly maintain their fleet of trucks
- Overloading trucks or improperly loading cargo
The Truck Manufacturer or Parts Manufacturer
If a defective truck or part contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be liable. This could include issues such as:
- Faulty brakes
- Tire blowouts due to manufacturing defects
- Steering system failures
Cargo Loaders or Shippers:
If improper loading of cargo contributed to the accident, the company responsible for loading may be held liable. This could involve:
- Overloading the truck beyond weight limits
- Failing to properly secure cargo, leading to shifting loads or falling debris
Maintenance Companies
Third-party companies responsible for truck maintenance may be liable if poor maintenance led to the accident, such as:
- Failing to properly inspect the truck
- Neglecting necessary repairs
- Using substandard parts
Government Entities
In some cases, government bodies responsible for road design and maintenance may be partially liable if poor road conditions contributed to the accident.
Identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial for several reasons:
- It ensures you can seek full compensation for your injuries and losses
- It helps overcome issues with insurance policy limits that might otherwise limit your recovery
- It holds all responsible parties accountable, potentially preventing future accidents
At Cory Watson Attorneys, our experienced Nashville truck accident lawyers have the resources and experience to conduct thorough investigations, often working with accident reconstruction experts and other specialists to determine liability. We understand the complexities of truck accident cases and will fight tirelessly to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable for your injuries.
Compensation Available to Truck Accident Victims
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, leaving victims and their families facing significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. At Cory Watson Attorneys, we work tirelessly to secure comprehensive compensation for our clients. The types of damages available in truck accident cases may include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for current and future medical treatments, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
- Lost Wages or Income: Compensation for income lost due to the accident and potential future earnings if you're unable to return to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and injuries.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to engage in activities you once enjoyed.
- Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: Additional damages if you've suffered long-term or permanent impairments.
Fatal Truck Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
In cases of fatal truck accidents, surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. This type of lawsuit can provide compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of the deceased's future income and benefits
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and support
- The deceased's pain and suffering before death
- Loss of inheritance
Our experienced Nashville truck accident lawyers can evaluate your case, explain the full range of compensation you may be entitled to, and fight to maximize your recovery. We understand that no amount of money can fully compensate for the trauma of a serious accident or the loss of a loved one, but fair compensation can provide financial stability and a sense of justice as you move forward.
Is There a Deadline for Filing a Truck Accident Case in Tennessee?
Yes, there is a strict deadline for filing a trucking accident case in Tennessee, known as the statute of limitations. Understanding and adhering to this deadline is crucial for protecting your right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
In Tennessee, the general statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including all vehicle accidents, is one year from the date of the accident. This means you have one year from the day your accident occurred to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. If you fail to file within this one-year window, you may lose your right to pursue legal action and recover damages.
While you have up to a year to file a lawsuit, it's in your best interest to consult a truck accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident. Early action allows your attorney to:
- Gather and preserve crucial evidence before it disappears
- Interview witnesses while their memories are fresh
- Ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and file the proper documentation
- Protect you from potential pitfalls in dealing with insurance companies
At Cory Watson Attorneys, we understand the importance of timely action in truck accident cases. We encourage you to reach out to us as soon as possible to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Nashville Truck Accident Lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a truck accident in Nashville, Cory Watson Attorneys can help you seek justice and compensation through a personal injury claim. The experienced team at Cory Watson Attorneys can guide you through every step of the legal process. With our 40 years of experience and over $4 Billion recovered for our clients, we have the knowledge, resources, and dedication to handle even the most complex truck accident cases.
Our Nashville personal injury lawyers can help you by:
- Conducting a thorough investigation of your accident, gathering crucial evidence to support your claim
- Identifying all potentially liable parties to maximize your compensation
- Handling all communications and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf
- Calculating the full extent of your damages, including future medical costs and lost earnings
- Building a strong case and representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
- Navigating Tennessee's legal system, ensuring all deadlines are met, and your rights are protected
Don't let the statute of limitations expire on your claim. Contact Cory Watson Attorneys today at (615) 813-2149 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. We're available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide the legal support you need during this challenging time.