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Passengers of a vehicle involved in a side-impact truck accident can suffer serious and costly injuries that prevent a regular return to work and life activities. If the accident was due to the careless conduct of the driver or another party, the injured party could have a viable claim for negligence.
It can be challenging to identify the parties responsible for a side-impact truck accident and to prove the elements of a lawsuit required for financial recovery. An attorney experienced in side-impact track accidents in Chattanooga could help you build a compelling claim and offer valuable peace of mind throughout the legal process.
Side-impact truck accidents typically have two forms: the T-Bone or broadside accident and the sideswipe accident.
A T-Bone accident occurs when the front end of the truck crashes into the side of another vehicle, creating a “T” shape. When a large commercial truck hits an ordinary passenger vehicle from the side, the passenger compartment is easily crushed, regardless of the impacted vehicle’s size.
Side-impact truck accidents also occur when a commercial truck sideswipes a passenger vehicle. While generally less destructive than T-Bone accidents, passenger vehicles are quite vulnerable to sideswipes from heavy trucks because they do not always have side-impact airbags to protect the passengers. The force of the swipe may also cause the impacted vehicle to swerve outside its lane and possibly hit another vehicle or object.
A side-impact truck collision can result from many factors, but operator negligence is often the primary cause. Examples of operator negligence include:
A side-impact truck accident in Chattanooga may also be caused by mechanical problems that inhibit the driver’s ability to brake or steer properly. Poor road conditions because of foul weather or maintenance problems may also contribute to this type of accident.
Individuals involved in a side-impact truck accident can suffer severe injuries. These injuries often result in permanent medical problems and lost earning capacity. Under state law, the negligent party that caused an injured person’s harm can be held responsible for all related damages, including:
A Chattanooga attorney could also help a plaintiff recover additional compensation for their mental distress, extended rehabilitation, or the wrongful death of a loved one.
A truck driver whose negligence causes a side-impact truck crash in Chattanooga may be held liable for the damages of those injured in the accident. To establish the driver’s liability in Tennessee, the injured party must show four things:
A breach of duty to drive safely can include speeding, texting while driving, or violating traffic laws when the accident occurred. The driver’s employer might have vicarious liability if the accident occurred during the driver’s scope of employment with the trucking company, as a seasoned local attorney could further explain.
If you have been harmed in a side-impact truck accident in Chattanooga, you should get in touch with a knowledgeable attorney right away. It could be crucial to have someone on your side who is familiar with the laws surrounding this type of accident and could help you pursue financial compensation for your injuries. Call today to set up an initial consultation.