Truck accidents are known to be some of the most devastating incidents in Maryville. These accidents can cause significant physical injuries, extensive property damage, and severe emotional trauma that can last a lifetime.
If you have been involved in a truck accident caused by the negligence of a truck driver, it is essential to have an experienced legal team on your side. Truck accident lawsuits can be highly complex, involving various parties such as the driver, the trucking company, and other service providers. These relationships can have a significant impact on your case, and determining who is responsible for the accident is not always straightforward. Fortunately, our firm has extensive experience in handling these types of cases and can provide you with the guidance you need to get the compensation you deserve.
For a free case review with our Knoxville truck accident lawyers, contact Howe Law today at (844) 876-4357.
Types of Trucks that Typically Cause Accidents in Maryville, TN
The consequences of truck accidents are often devastating, leading to severe injuries and even fatalities. In Maryville, several types of trucks are frequently involved in such accidents. The type of truck that injured you is important because it will usually be the first factor our truck accident attorneys look at to determine who is responsible for the accident. Because most of these trucks conduct some type of business, multiple parties can usually be sued.
18-Wheelers (Tractor-Trailers)
Tractor-trailers, commonly referred to as 18-wheelers, are some of the most massive vehicles that you will find on the road. They can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and their size, along with the long hours that truck drivers spend on the road, make them a significant factor in many road accidents.
The most common cause of these accidents is driver fatigue, which occurs when drivers spend long hours on the road without adequate rest. Improper loading of goods on the trailer can also result in accidents, especially if the weight distribution is uneven or the cargo is not adequately secured. Other factors, such as mechanical failures, can also contribute to accidents involving tractor-trailers.
Amazon Delivery Trucks
As the trend of online shopping continues to grow, it is no surprise that Amazon delivery trucks have become a common sight on our roads. However, the pressure to meet delivery deadlines can sometimes result in drivers engaging in reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, or sudden lane changes. These actions not only put the drivers themselves at risk but also endanger other motorists and pedestrians on the road.
Moreover, many of these delivery truck drivers might not have the same level of training as those driving larger commercial trucks. This lack of adequate training, combined with the pressure to meet tight deadlines, often leads to accidents.
Tow Trucks
Tow trucks help in removing broken-down or disabled vehicles from the roadside. However, the operation of tow trucks comes with its own set of challenges and risks that can lead to accidents. One of the primary factors that contribute to these accidents is the urgency to reach stranded drivers as soon as possible, which can lead to reckless driving, speeding, and other unsafe practices.
Moreover, the size and weight of the towed vehicle can also pose challenges for the truck operator, especially when navigating through narrow or congested roads. Finally, the complex operation of towing equipment, such as winches, chains, and hooks, requires a high level of skill and expertise, which can be compromised in certain situations, leading to accidents. In these cases, the driver and the towing company can usually be held liable for the driver’s negligence.
Garbage Trucks
Garbage trucks are known to be a potential hazard on the road because of their frequent stops and starts. These sudden stops and starts can cause a variety of problems, such as traffic congestion, accidents, and environmental issues.
Additionally, garbage trucks have large blind spots, which can make it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists around them. This is particularly concerning since garbage trucks often operate in residential areas, where children and pets might suddenly dart out into the street. As a result, it is crucial that drivers of garbage trucks remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Otherwise, the driver and the municipality they work for could be sued.
Fire Engines
Fire engines play a critical role in ensuring public safety by responding promptly to emergency situations. However, they can also be involved in traffic accidents if they are not careful. Owing to the urgent nature of their missions, fire engines often need to speed and maneuver through traffic in ways that normal vehicles do not.
This can create hazardous situations and might potentially lead to collisions. As such, it is important for drivers to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings when sharing the road with fire engines. Fire engine operators are not given carte blanche on the road and can still be held liable if they act recklessly while carrying out their duties.
Postel Service Trucks
Mail delivery trucks, such as those operated by the United States Postal Service, are another common sight on our roads. These vehicles often make sudden stops or turns to deliver mail, potentially catching other road users off guard and causing accidents.
Dump Trucks
Dump trucks are commonly used in construction and waste disposal. Their large size and weight, coupled with the potential for loose debris to fall from the truck, make them a significant hazard on the road.
Rental Moving Trucks
Rental moving trucks are often driven by individuals without experience handling such large vehicles. This lack of experience, combined with the stress of moving, often leads to accidents. In most cases, the driver will have to pay for their negligence, but suing the rental moving company could be more challenging since you will need to show that the company negligently rented out the truck. For example, if the company rented to an unlicensed driver, they could be held accountable.
How Long You Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Maryville, TN
In Maryville, how long you have to file a lawsuit after a truck accident is determined by the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations refers to the period during which you can file a lawsuit against the responsible party for the damages you have suffered. In most cases, the statute of limitations for truck accident claims in Maryville is one year from the date of the accident, according to T.C.A. § 28-3-104.
This means that you have exactly one year from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in court. If you fail to file within this timeframe, your case will not be heard, and you will not be able to recover any damages. That is why you should not hesitate to get legal representation immediately following your truck accident so you do not miss the deadline to file your case.
Our Maryville, TN Truck Accident Attorneys Are Here to Help
Call Howe Law at (844) 876-4357 to receive a free case assessment with our truck accident attorneys.
