Chattanooga Box Truck Accident Attorneys

Common Causes of Box Truck Accidents

Box trucks are somewhat less unwieldy and are theoretically a bit easier to control than larger trucks, but they are still mammoth vehicles responsible for transporting tens of thousands of pounds of cargo. They also tend to require a commercial driver’s license to operate, meaning their drivers should be professionals who are aware of the dangers their vehicles pose. Sadly, box truck accidents are still a frighteningly frequent occurrence, including on major highways like the I-75. Many of these wrecks are caused by the negligence of one or more parties.

A box truck accident may be caused by one or more factors, including:

• Driver inexperience. If someone is driving a box truck without the proper license or is new to driving these vehicles and did not receive adequate training, they are more likely to attempt dangerous maneuvers, like turning too quickly, that could trigger a rollover or jackknife incident.
• Poor weather conditions. Heavy rain, sleet, snow, or fog can reduce visibility and make roadways hazardously slick. Professional drivers should know to dramatically reduce their speeds when forced to drive in inclement weather. 
• A tire blowout. If a truck’s tires are not routinely inspected, maintained, and replaced, it may eventually “blow out,” causing the box truck driver to lose control of their vehicle. 
• Distracted driving. A box truck driver must give the road ahead of them their complete attention. That means they should never text while driving or do anything that reduces their focus.
• Intoxicated driving. Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is always unlawful.
• Fatigued driving. Box truck drivers may work excessive hours in an effort to complete deliveries faster. Laws regulating maximum numbers of consecutive hours worked and mandatory rest breaks must be observed, as a fatigued driver is more likely to make critical mistakes behind the wheel.
• Failing to follow traffic laws. Like any motorist, a box truck driver may simply violate a traffic rule, like running a red light or changing lanes without signaling, increasing the likelihood of a collision.

Who Is Liable for a Box Truck Accident?

Liability in these cases can become extremely complicated, but our Chattanooga box truck accident attorneys can help. We understand that time is of the essence and will work quickly to gather and preserve all pertinent records, data, and evidence. Our team will also conduct any necessary interviews with police officers, emergency response personnel, and witnesses as we work to determine who is at fault for the accident. Because there may be multiple layers of ownership and insurance coverage, multiple parties may be to blame. 

One or more of the following parties may be liable for a box truck accident:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company or broker
• The owner of the truck
• The shipper or warehouse involved in the cargo loading
• The truck or vehicle component manufacturer
• Parties responsible for vehicle maintenance, repairs, and inspections
• Insurance companies for various parties

What Is the Deadline for Filing a Box Truck Accident Lawsuit?

You will relinquish your right to file a lawsuit if you wait too long to start the legal process. Each state has its own statute of limitations for these cases.

In Tennessee, you have only one year from the date of the box truck accident to file a lawsuit. In Georgia and Alabama, you get two years from the date of the box truck accident to take legal action. 

Box truck collisions can sometimes result in fatal injuries. When these tragic scenarios take place in Tennessee, parties with standing have one year from the date of the victim’s passing to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Parties with standing have two years from the date of the victim’s passing to bring a claim in Georgia or Alabama. 

What Damages Can I Recover for Box Truck Accident Injuries?

Taking legal action allows you to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include all quantifiable expenses you incurred because of the accident, while non-economic damages are less-quantifiable consequences resulting from your injuries. Punitive damages will only rarely be awarded and only if there is evidence a defendant acted maliciously, intentionally, fraudulently, or egregiously recklessly. Our team at The Hamilton Firm can evaluate your circumstances and walk you through what you can expect to recover. 

Our Chattanooga box truck accident lawyers will fight to get you just compensation for all losses, including:

• Past, current, and future medical bills
• Ongoing or permanent disability
• Lost income and earning potential
• Property damage
• Physical pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of consortium

One of our attorneys will come to you to listen to your story and discuss your case if you cannot come to us. Contact us online or call (423) 454-3288 to schedule a consultation today.