Truck Accident Lawyer Chattanooga, TN

Fatigue is one of the most common reasons that truck accidents happen. Inadequate sleep, long work hours, and stress can take a toll on a truck driver’s alertness. Being fatigued can increase the chances of being involved in a serious accident. If you or a loved one was injured by a drowsy truck driver, contact our team at Dennis & Winningham Law today for assistance. You may be owed compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. Our Chattanooga, TN truck accident lawyer is experienced in handling all types of personal injury cases, including commercial truck collisions. We are ready to help you as soon as you contact us.

Noticing Truck Driver Fatigue

If you suspect that the truck driver was tired behind the wheel, please let your lawyer know right away so they can investigate further. There are several indicators of trucker fatigue, such as nodding off, driving too slowly, and swaying within a lane or across many lanes. If you noticed these behaviors moments before the crash, then there is a good chance the driver was fatigued. If you can successfully prove that the trucker was at fault, then you may be compensated for how you have suffered from the accident. You may be owed payment for your medical bills, pain and suffering, past and future lost wages, and more.

Violation Of Trucking Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) created rules to mitigate truck driver fatigue. Truckers can only drive a set number of hours within a certain timeframe, and are required to take breaks during their shift. As our dedicated truck accident attorney explains, if a truck driver is found to have violated any of the rules set forth by the FMCSA, then they can be held liable for the consequences of an accident. Here are examples of regulations that truck drivers must follow:

• 11-hour driving limit: truckers may drive at most 11 hours after being off duty for 10 consecutive hours.
• 14-hour driving limit: truckers may not drive longer than the 14th consecutive hour after being on duty, following 10 consecutive hours being off duty.
• 30-min driving break: truckers are required to take a half hour break if they have been driving for 8 cumulative hours without at minimum a 30-minute interruption.
• 60/70-hour limit: truckers may not drive if they have been on duty for 60/70 hours for 7/8 consecutive days.

Dennis & Winningham Law

Our team at Dennis & Winningham Law is aware of the tragedy that can unfold when a commercial truck accident happens. If you were recently injured and are in need of compensation, you can rely on our Chattanooga truck accident attorney to advocate for you. We know the law and the steps involved in yielding the most compensation for our clients. Trying to navigate the aftermath of a truck accident can be challenging, especially if you are focused on taking care of your injuries. Let us help you seek compensation so that you are not going through financial turmoil at this time. Do not hesitate to get support today by reaching out for a consultation.

Truck Accident FAQs

If you’ve been involved in a truck crash, you likely have many questions about what steps to take and how to proceed with your personal injury case. Whether you’re concerned about legal representation or the potential outcomes of your claim, our Chattanooga truck accident lawyer can guide you through some of the most common inquiries people have when pursuing compensation after a truck accident.

What Kind Of Lawyer Do I Need To Sue A Trucking Company?

To sue a trucking company, you will need an attorney who specializes in personal injury law, specifically one with experience handling truck accident cases. Our personal injury lawyers understand the difficulties involved, including federal regulations that govern trucking companies, the potential for multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, manufacturer, etc.), and how to effectively investigate the case. Our truck accident attorney will verify your claim is pursued correctly and that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?

The amount of a truck accident settlement can vary significantly based on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the level of negligence involved, and the evidence available to support your case. While some minor cases might result in settlements in the thousands of dollars, more serious collisions involving catastrophic injuries could result in settlements of hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. Our legal team has secured over $60 million in settlements and verdicts for our clients. We will work to evaluate your past, current, and future medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages to help determine a settlement amount that is fair and addresses all of your losses.

What Should I Do Immediately After A Truck Accident?

After a truck accident, the first thing you should do is establish your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move to a safe location and call 911. Report the accident to the authorities and seek medical attention, even if you feel fine—some injuries can manifest later. Be sure to collect evidence, such as photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If possible, gather contact information from any witnesses. Finally, contact our auto accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.

Should I Contact A Lawyer Even If The Truck Driver Was Not At Fault?

Yes, it is still a good idea to contact our lawyer even if the truck driver wasn’t at fault. In many truck accidents, there may be other factors involved, such as the trucking company’s negligence, faulty vehicle maintenance, or violations of federal trucking regulations. Our skilled personal injury attorney will be able to investigate the circumstances of the accident and help determine if other parties are liable. We can also assist in managing your insurance claims and recover the compensation you deserve, even if liability is not immediately clear.

Will My Truck Accident Case Go To Trial?

Not every truck accident case will go to trial. In fact, most personal injury claims are settled out of court through negotiations with insurance companies or through mediation. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial. Our accident lawyer will advise you on the best course of action, based on the strength of your case and the willingness of the parties involved to negotiate. Our lawyer is prepared to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you are owed.

Protecting Your Interests In A Truck Accident Claim

Understanding these key questions can help you make informed decisions if you’ve sustained injuries in a collision. Our specialized Chattanooga truck accident lawyer can provide the support and knowledge needed to guide you through the legal process and maximize your chances of securing a fair settlement or verdict. Our attorneys at Dennis & Winningham Law have over 75 years of combined experience fighting for justice for personal injury victims. We understand the financial and emotional burdens of dealing with a claim and don’t charge a fee unless we win for you. Get started by scheduling a free and confidential case review today.

Chattanooga Truck Accident Infographic

Help When A Truck Driver Under The Influence Injures You

Our Chattanooga, TN pedestrian accident lawyer knows that when a truck driver chooses to operate a vehicle while under the influence, the results can be catastrophic. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, pursuing compensation can help cover the physical, emotional, and financial toll of the crash. When you work with us, there is no fee until we win. At Dennis & Winningham Law, we work to help injured individuals take the right steps to recover the compensation they deserve.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Care. After any accident, seeking medical attention is the top priority. Truck accidents often result in serious injuries, and seeing a doctor not only helps protect your health but creates detailed records of your condition. These medical records play a crucial role in demonstrating the severity of your injuries.
2. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement. When a truck driver causes an accident, particularly under the influence, it’s critical to contact the police. The police report can document key details about the crash, including signs of impairment, which will help strengthen your case later.
3. Collect Evidence at the Scene. If it’s safe to do so, gathering evidence at the accident scene is a good idea. This can include photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any injuries you sustained. If there are witnesses, their contact information may also be helpful.
4. Document Your Injuries and Treatment. Our Chattanooga pedestrian accident lawyer encourages you to keep thorough records of your injuries, medical appointments, and any treatments you receive. This includes medications, physical therapy, or surgeries related to the accident. Tracking your recovery can help establish the full impact of the crash on your life.
5. Identify Liability. When a truck driver under the influence causes an accident, their employer may also be held liable in some cases. Trucking companies are required to follow strict safety regulations, including conducting proper background checks and maintaining a safe workplace. Examining all possible sources of liability is important in these cases.
6. Calculate Your Damages. Accidents involving impaired truck drivers can result in significant financial losses. Damages may include medical bills, lost wages, and future earning potential, as well as pain and suffering. It’s important to account for both immediate and long-term impacts of the accident when pursuing compensation.
7. File Your Claim Within the Deadline. Each state has a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. Acting within this time frame is essential to protecting your right to seek compensation. Filing promptly also helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
8. Address Settlement Offers Carefully. Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement after an accident, but these offers may not fully cover your losses. It’s important to carefully evaluate any settlement before accepting, particularly in cases involving serious injuries.
9. Prepare for Court if Needed. If settlement negotiations don’t result in fair compensation, pursuing the case in court may be necessary. A strong presentation of the facts, supported by evidence, can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Find Compassionate Support

If you’ve been injured by a truck driver under the influence, we’re here to help. At Dennis & Winningham Law, we’re committed to standing by your side and working toward the best possible outcome for your case. Speak with our trusted pedestrian accident lawyer in TN today to schedule a consultation and free case review and take the first step in holding the responsible parties accountable.