Nashville Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer

Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys' Nashville office is connected to a national network of commercial vehicle accident lawyers and legal specialists. As your dedicated Nashville Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer, we are here to listen to your needs, while the full strength of our firm stands ready to assist you.

(800) 229-7989

2550 Meridian Blvd
Franklin, TN 37067

Start Your Free Case Evaluation

Free

Case evaluations are 100% free and available 24/7

Compassionate Advocacy for commercial Accident Victims. Impressive Results.

Eleven attorneys from Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys posing for a photo on an Alabama rooftop

Commercial vehicle accidents in Nashville often leave victims with serious, life-altering injuries or painful losses. If you’re coping with the aftermath of a commercial vehicle collision, such as one involving a large truck or company vehicle, you may feel burdened with medical costs, missed work, and other challenges. 

Working with a Nashville commercial vehicle accident lawyer can help you seek compensation and hold negligent parties accountable. The team at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys offers compassionate, determined legal support and provides a free case evaluation to discuss your options.

Contact us today to speak with an experienced commercial vehicle accident attorney at no cost and learn how we can help.

FREE CASE REVIEW

Common Types of Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Nashville

Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys Moment with Glasses

The roads of Nashville see a wide range of commercial vehicles (CMVs). When these larger vehicles are involved in accidents, the impact can be devastating. Common types of commercial vehicles involved in serious crashes include:

  • Semi-trucks and 18-wheelers: Given their immense size and weight, these vehicles pose heightened risks on the road. The nature of a crash with a semi-truck often results in severe damage and injuries.
  • Delivery vans: With e-commerce growth, delivery vans now move through neighborhoods and city streets more frequently, sometimes leading to accidents that impact drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.
  • Construction vehicles: These vehicles operate on and around construction sites, often with limited visibility and specialized functions, making roadway safety a complex concern.
  • Buses: Whether public or private, buses carry numerous passengers. In an accident, the risk to all onboard is substantial.
  • Fleet vehicles: Many companies operate fleets of vehicles for transport or business tasks. In an accident, multiple parties, including corporate entities, may be involved in liability.

No matter what type of commercial vehicle caused your accident, our attorneys will work diligently to hold all responsible parties accountable and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.

Why Commercial Vehicle Cases Are Different

A commercial vehicle accident case differs significantly from a typical car accident due to factors like regulations and the parties involved. Our attorneys understand these distinctions and can help you navigate the claims process. We can make a meaningful difference in securing fair compensation for you.

  • Complex regulations: Commercial vehicles, especially large trucks like tractor-trailers, are subject to both state and federal safety regulations. These rules govern everything from maintenance to driver hours.
  • Multiple liable parties: Unlike regular car accidents, commercial vehicle accidents often involve multiple potential defendants, such as employers, manufacturers, and even third-party contractors.
  • Serious injuries: The sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles typically result in more severe injuries. This can lead to prolonged recovery periods and significant medical needs. In worst-case scenarios, people die due to the severity of the injuries they sustain in commercial vehicle wrecks.
  • Corporate insurance policies: Corporate insurers often bring substantial resources to defend against claims, with teams of lawyers to defend against claims. As such, you must have experienced legal support to fight back against defense tactics and obtain compensation.
  • Federal safety requirements: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict rules for commercial drivers. Any violations can play a pivotal role in an accident claim, as your attorney can use them to prove negligence.

The Nashville personal injury lawyers at our firm have extensive experience handling all types of commercial vehicle collisions. We can greatly improve your odds of obtaining the best outcome possible.

Commercial Vehicle Accident Causes We Investigate

Attorney Anthony Shunnarah

At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, each Nashville commercial vehicle accident lawyer at our firm closely investigates the cause of every collision to build a strong case. Common causes of CMV crashes include:

  • Driver fatigue: Many commercial drivers work long hours, and fatigue can impair reaction times, decision-making, and focus on the road.
  • Inadequate training: Commercial drivers must undergo proper training. Without it, they may lack the skill to handle a vehicle’s unique size and weight.
  • Poor maintenance: Commercial vehicles require regular inspections and repairs. When these are skipped, the vehicle may become unsafe.
  • Loading violations: Cargo in commercial vehicles must be loaded according to specific standards. Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo can impact vehicle stability, leading to crashes.
  • Distracted driving: Distractions such as cell phones, GPS systems, or eating on the go can result in a lack of focus, especially dangerous in a large vehicle.
  • Hours of service violations: The FMCSA enforces limits on driving hours to prevent fatigue. However, some drivers or companies violate these standards, putting everyone on the road at risk.

Determining Liability in a Commercial Vehicle Crash

Attorney Brad Griffin

Your lawyer must determine who is responsible for a commercial vehicle accident to establish liability and support your claim. Our attorneys examine all possible sources of liability, such as:

  • The commercial vehicle driver: In most cases, the driver’s negligence or reckless behavior is the primary cause of the crash.
  • Trucking company: The company that employs the driver may bear liability, especially if they encouraged unsafe practices or failed to follow regulations.
  • Vehicle manufacturer: If a defect in the vehicle contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be responsible.
  • Maintenance contractors: Sometimes, a third party is responsible for vehicle upkeep. Negligent maintenance or repairs can create hazards.
  • Loading company: Companies responsible for loading cargo must follow safety protocols. Improper loading can cause accidents, making them liable.
  • Third parties: Another motorist or a contractor working on the roadway may share responsibility in some cases.

You can rely on us to thoroughly investigate the crash to determine every party who bears responsibility for your injuries and losses and hold them liable.

What Compensation Can We Help You Recover

Attorney Brian Hoven

After a commercial vehicle accident, our legal team can help you pursue compensation for various losses, including:

  • Medical expenses: Covering hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing treatments can be costly. Compensation helps manage these essential care costs.
  • Lost wages: If injuries keep you from working, you may qualify for compensation to cover lost income and future earning capacity.
  • Pain and suffering: Accidents impact more than finances. We seek fair compensation for the physical and emotional pain you may be enduring.
  • Property damage: A crash often results in vehicle damage. Compensation can assist with repairs or replacement.
  • Long-term care: In cases of severe injury, extended care such as rehabilitation or in-home support may be required.
  • Wrongful death damages: Families who lose a loved one may qualify for additional compensation to address the profound impact of such a loss.
  • Punitive damages: In certain rare cases involving egregious negligence or unlawfulness, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and send a message to others to deter similar behavior.

Our attorneys will fight to recover the full amount of compensation you need to cover all your injuries and losses resulting from the crash.

Why Choose Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys for Your Nashville Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim

Attorney Bryant Jones

Working with a firm experienced in commercial vehicle cases can make a meaningful difference in pursuing fair compensation. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we offer:

  • Track record in commercial cases: Our history with complex commercial accident cases speaks to our commitment to each client.
  • Resources to fight big companies: Taking on large corporations requires extensive resources. We bring both the experience and the resources needed to pursue justice.
  • Knowledge of trucking regulations: Our attorneys understand the nuances of trucking laws and regulations, which helps us investigate and strengthen your claim.
  • Network of expert witnesses: Expert testimony can strengthen a case, especially when corporate negligence or complex causes are involved. We routinely work with accident reconstruction specialists, trucking industry experts, medical experts, and other professionals to show the exact cause of the accident and the extent of your injuries. 
  • 24/7 availability: Accidents don’t adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. Our team is here for you when you need support the most.

Additionally, our law firm operates on a contingency fee basis for personal injury claims. You pay no fees upfront, and we won’t bill you along the way. Instead, we handle all aspects of your case to recover the most compensation for you, and we only accept attorney fees as a percentage of the settlement or court award we obtain on your behalf.

Commercial Vehicle Accident Statistics for Nashville and Tennessee

Attorney Chuck Thomas

Commercial vehicle accidents pose a significant risk to residents across Nashville and Tennessee. According to recent data from the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security:

  • Davidson County and the Nashville area reported 2,015 total crashes involving commercial vehicles during a recent year. These crashes resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities.
  • Most CMV crashes occur on I-40 and I-24 between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
  • A considerable number of CMV accidents result from driver fatigue and drowsiness. 
  • The most frequent causes of commercial vehicle collisions are following too closely, failure to yield, and improper lane changes.

Overall, delivery and transport vehicles account for a rising number of incidents, given the increase in online shopping and local deliveries. Nashville ranks among the state’s highest cities in terms of commercial vehicle accident frequency, with heavily trafficked interstates and main roads contributing to these statistics.

Nashville Commercial Vehicle Accident FAQs

What is the statute of limitations for a commercial vehicle accident claim in Tennessee?

You have only one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in Tennessee. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.

How does comparative negligence affect my case?

Tennessee follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found less than 50% responsible for the accident, you can recover damages, though your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

What insurance requirements apply to commercial vehicles?

Commercial vehicles in Tennessee must meet higher insurance minimums, especially for larger trucks and vehicles that transport goods or passengers.

Who pays for my medical expenses if the driver was at fault?

If the commercial driver was at fault, their insurance should cover your medical expenses. Our team assists in handling claims to seek a fair settlement or to take the case to court if necessary.

Do I need a lawyer for a commercial vehicle accident claim?

Yes. Commercial vehicle claims often involve complex insurance policies and multiple liable parties. An experienced attorney can help build a case, negotiate with insurers, and ensure your rights are protected.

Contact Our Nashville Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorneys Today

multi_million_dollar

After a commercial vehicle accident, securing an attorney who knows the ins and outs of these cases can significantly impact your recovery. With Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys by your side, you gain an advocate ready to fight for the compensation you need to move forward. 

Contact a Nashville commercial vehicle accident lawyer at our firm today for a free consultation and find out how we can help you hold the responsible parties accountable. You have a limited time to file an injury claim in Tennessee, so don’t delay. Call us now at (800) 229-7989 to get started.