Your Chattanooga Truck Accident Attorney | Dedicated to Helping Victims
Truck accidents occur for various reasons, including driver negligence, improper maintenance, and overloaded or poorly secured cargo. They can be devastating, resulting in serious injuries and even fatalities. If a truck accident in Chattanooga has involved you, seek legal representation that is well-versed in handling these cases.
At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we are here to manage the legal process and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Our skilled team of Chattanooga truck accident lawyers has a track record of success in handling these complicated cases, and we will work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, and let us fight for your rights.
FREE CASE REVIEWWhy Choose Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys
When choosing a Chattanooga truck accident lawyer, you want a law firm with a proven track record of success handling similar cases. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we have a core mission focused on holding corporations and powerful entities accountable for the harm caused to individuals. Our commitment to justice and advocacy for meaningful outcomes sets us apart from other firms. Our Chattanooga personal injury lawyers prioritize trust and ethical principles in all client relationships, and our dedicated team of attorneys is known for their experience and dedication to achieving results beyond industry standards. With our dedicated and results-driven legal team, you can trust that we will go the extra mile to deliver meaningful outcomes and impactful change in your life.
Our Chattanooga office is conveniently located north of Finley Stadium and southwest of the Chattanooga Convention Center at:
1604 Reggie White Blvd
Suite 104
Chattanooga, TN 37402
(423) 583-9569
How Much Are Truck Accident Injuries Worth?
Determining the value of truck accident injuries can be a burdensome process. The worth of a claim depends on various factors, such as the severity of injuries, medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and the impact on the victim’s quality of life. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we understand the importance of accurately assessing the value of your claim to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Our seasoned Chattanooga truck accident lawyers have a history of securing significant results for our clients, and we will fight to maximize your recovery.
The value of truck accident injuries depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the extent of your medical expenses and future treatment needs. Common compensation forms that may be available in truck accident injury cases include:
- Medical expenses: This includes costs associated with immediate medical treatments, rehabilitation, therapy, medications, and assistive devices.
- Lost income: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you earned during that time.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident and resulting injuries.
- Emotional distress: Additional compensation for the psychological impact of the accident and injuries, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries have significantly impacted your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed, compensation may be available.
- Punitive damages: In cases where the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly reckless or malicious, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior
Every truck accident case is unique, and the value of your injuries will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. Consulting with our truck accident lawyers will give you a better understanding of the potential value of your claim.
Types of Truck Accidents in Chattanooga
Truck accidents can occur in various ways, with their factors and potential causes. Understanding the different types of truck accidents can clarify the complexities involved and the importance of having knowledgeable legal representation.
Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of truck accidents, often resulting from the truck driver’s negligence or failure to maintain a safe following distance. These crashes can cause significant damage to smaller vehicles and lead to serious injuries for passengers. Large trucks require longer stopping distances, and the consequences can be devastating when drivers are distracted or tailgating.
Jackknife accidents are another dangerous scenario. These occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab, much like the blade of a folding knife. Improper braking, slippery roads, or equipment failure are common causes. Once a truck jackknifes, it can block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to pile-ups and significant road hazards.
Underride accidents are particularly catastrophic. These happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a truck, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Underride guards or better truck design can often prevent these tragedies.
Rollover accidents, where a truck tips onto its side or roof, can stem from driver error, speeding, or improper cargo distribution. These accidents endanger everyone in the surrounding area.
Wide turn accidents highlight the challenges of operating large trucks. Trucks need a significant turning radius, and if the driver miscalculates, they can collide with vehicles, pedestrians, or objects nearby.
Lane change accidents occur when a truck driver fails to check blind spots or improperly changes lanes. The sheer size of trucks makes these collisions especially dangerous, often resulting in severe injuries and extensive vehicle damage.
No matter how your truck accident happened, a Chattanooga truck accident attorney from our firm can investigate how it happened and hold the liable parties accountable for their actions.
Frequent Injuries From Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to commercial trucks’ massive size and weight. Some of the most common injuries sustained in truck accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): The force of impact in a truck accident can cause head injuries ranging from concussions to severe TBIs, leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
- Spinal cord injuries: The sudden impact of a truck accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis, decreased mobility, and chronic pain.
- Broken bones and fractures: The extreme force of a truck collision can cause multiple fractures and broken bones, which may require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.
- Internal injuries: The impact of a truck accident can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and damage to vital bodily systems.
- Neck and back injuries: Whiplash is a common injury in truck accidents, causing strain and sprain to the neck and back muscles. More severe accidents can lead to herniated discs and chronic pain.
- Burn injuries: If a truck catches fire or hazardous materials are involved, burn injuries can be severe and life-threatening.
Be sure to seek immediate medical attention after a truck accident, even if you don’t notice any immediate symptoms. Some injuries may take time to manifest, and prompt medical treatment is imperative to your well-being and to strengthen your future legal claim.
High-Risk Areas for Truck Accidents in Chattanooga
While truck accidents can happen anywhere, Chattanooga has several accident-prone locations with a higher frequency of truck accidents. Some of the high-risk areas for truck accidents in Chattanooga include:
Highway 27: This major highway passes through Chattanooga and often experiences congestion, increasing the likelihood of truck accidents.
Interstate 24: This major highway connecting Chattanooga to Nashville and Atlanta experiences heavy truck traffic and is known for its high accident rate.
Intersection of Highway 153 and Lee Highway: This intersection is notorious for accidents involving trucks due to its heavy traffic and complex layout.
Rossville Boulevard: This heavily trafficked route has a high concentration of commercial trucks and can be particularly dangerous during peak hours.
Ridge Cut: Known for its steep grade and hairpin turns, Ridge Cut is a challenging road stretch requiring truck drivers’ caution and attention.
Fighting Insurance Companies After a Truck Accident
After a truck accident, you may have to deal with insurance companies and their tactics to undervalue or deny your claim. Insurance companies focus on their bottom line and may employ various tactics to reduce liability.
One common strategy is offering a quick settlement soon after the incident. This lowball pressures victims to accept compensation before they fully understand the extent of their injuries or damages. By settling quickly, victims may unknowingly waive their right to seek additional compensation later.
Another tactic involves delaying or outright denying claims. Insurance companies may intentionally stall the process, hoping financial strain or frustration will push you to accept a lower offer or abandon your claim altogether. This tactic can be particularly challenging for those dealing with medical bills or lost income.
Insurance companies may also attempt to shift blame onto the victim. They might argue that you were partially or fully responsible for the accident or that your injuries were pre-existing or unrelated to the crash. This can make it challenging to prove your claim without strong legal representation.
Disputing medical evidence is another common strategy. Insurance companies often challenge the severity or may challenge the necessity of your treatment and question whether the medical care you received was appropriate. This tactic aims to cast doubt on the legitimacy of your injuries and reduce the settlement amount.
Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from your injuries. Having a compassionate Chattanooga truck accident attorney from our firm on your side can level the playing field and ensure that your rights are protected.
At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies and fighting for our clients’ fair compensation. We will gather and present substantial evidence to support your claim, handle all communication with the insurance company, and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.
Essential Steps After a Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Chattanooga, knowing the essential steps to take can significantly protect your rights and strengthen your potential legal case. Here are some steps to take after a truck accident:
Attend Medical Appointments
Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Follow through with all medical appointments, treatments, and recommendations from your healthcare providers. Documenting your injuries and treatment will strengthen your case.
Maintain Detailed Records
Keep track of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair costs, and transportation expenses. Document any lost earnings and changes in your daily life due to the injuries sustained. Be sure to note any additional costs, such as home care services, prescription medications, or therapy sessions, as these expenses can also contribute to your total damages and strengthen your claim.
Understand Applicable Legal Deadlines
Familiarize yourself with Tennessee’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims. In most cases, you have one year from the accident date to file a lawsuit. However, it’s best to consult with one of our Chattanooga truck accident attorneys as soon as possible to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines.
Get Legal Representation
Consulting a Chattanooga truck accident lawyer is necessary for personalized guidance throughout the legal process. Your attorney will assess the strength of your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights in court if necessary.
Following these essential steps can protect your rights and maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Speak to the Dedicated Chattanooga Truck Accident Attorneys at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys
If you’ve suffered an injury in a truck accident in Chattanooga, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. The dedicated Chattanooga truck accident attorneys at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys are here to provide you with professional representation and compassionate support.
Our experienced team of lawyers will take the time to understand your case’s unique circumstances and develop a strong legal strategy tailored to your needs. We are passionate about ensuring accountability for wrongdoers and determined to achieve the compensation and justice you deserve.
Don’t let the insurance companies take advantage of you. Contact Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys today at (423) 583-9569 for a free consultation. Let our skilled attorneys fight for your rights so you can focus on your recovery and rebuilding your life after a truck accident. Trust us to be your trusted legal partner in this challenging time.
Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys – Chattanooga Office
Address: 1604 Reggie White Blvd ste 104
Chattanooga, TN 37402
Phone: (423) 583-9569