Pedestrians and cyclists are among the most vulnerable people on Tennessee roadways. When a commercial truck strikes someone outside a vehicle, the results are often catastrophic or fatal. These crashes frequently occur in urban areas, work zones, intersections, and along busy corridors where trucks and foot or bicycle traffic intersect.
At Tennessee Accident Law, we represent pedestrians and cyclists across Tennessee who have been seriously injured after being struck by commercial trucks. We understand the devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences these victims face, and we fight to hold negligent drivers and trucking companies fully accountable.
If you have immediate questions, call us at (615) 212-9866 or complete our free case evaluation form now.
Why Truck-Pedestrian and Truck-Cyclist Accidents Are So Dangerous
Commercial trucks have massive blind spots, long stopping distances, and limited maneuverability. When truck drivers fail to remain alert or follow safety protocols, pedestrians and cyclists often have no chance to avoid serious injury.
Common scenarios leading to these crashes include:
- Trucks making wide turns at intersections
- Failure to yield in crosswalks
- Backing accidents in loading zones or parking areas
- Speeding through urban corridors
- Distracted or fatigued driving
- Poor visibility in construction or work zones
Because pedestrians and cyclists lack any physical protection, even low-speed truck collisions can be deadly.
Common Injuries Suffered by Pedestrians and Cyclists Hit by Trucks
Victims struck by commercial trucks often suffer life-altering injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head trauma is common when victims are thrown to the ground or struck by the truck or trailer.
Spinal Cord and Neck Injuries
Severe spinal injuries can result in paralysis, chronic pain, or permanent disability.
Crush Injuries and Amputations
Truck wheels and trailers can cause devastating crush injuries or traumatic amputations.
Internal Organ Damage
Blunt-force trauma frequently leads to internal bleeding and organ damage that may not be immediately apparent.
Where These Accidents Commonly Occur in Tennessee
Pedestrian and cyclist truck accidents often occur in:
- Downtown areas with mixed commercial traffic
- Residential neighborhoods with delivery trucks
- Construction zones
- Industrial parks and warehouse districts
- Intersections and crosswalks near major highways
Urban growth and increased freight traffic have made these accidents more common across Tennessee.
Determining Liability in Pedestrian and Cyclist Truck Accidents
Liability in these cases often extends beyond the truck driver. Responsible parties may include:
Truck Drivers
Drivers who fail to check blind spots, ignore traffic signals, or drive while distracted or fatigued can be held accountable.
Trucking Companies
Companies may be liable for:
- Inadequate driver training
- Failure to enforce safety policies
- Encouraging unsafe schedules
- Neglecting vehicle maintenance
Third Parties
Other liable parties may include:
- Contractors operating work zones
- Maintenance providers
- Truck or parts manufacturers
- Municipal entities responsible for unsafe road design
We investigate all possible sources of liability to maximize compensation.
Compensation Available to Injured Pedestrians and Cyclists
Pedestrians and cyclists injured by commercial trucks may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency and long-term medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In fatal cases, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims.
Why Trucking Companies Often Dispute These Claims
Insurance carriers often argue that pedestrians or cyclists were at fault, even when evidence suggests otherwise. Common defense tactics include:
- Claiming the victim was outside a crosswalk
- Alleging poor visibility or sudden movement
- Disputing injury severity
- Pressuring victims into quick settlements
At Tennessee Accident Law, we aggressively counter these tactics with evidence, expert testimony, and thorough investigations.
How Tennessee Accident Law Protects Pedestrians and Cyclists
Our firm has extensive experience handling serious truck accident claims throughout Tennessee. When you work with us, we:
- Preserve critical evidence quickly
- Work with accident reconstruction experts
- Handle all insurance communications
- Prepare cases for trial
- Charge no fees unless we win compensation
We represent only injured victims—never trucking companies or insurers.
Speak With a Tennessee Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was struck by a commercial truck while walking or cycling in Tennessee, you deserve experienced legal representation and answers you can trust.
Contact Tennessee Accident Law today by completing our free case evaluation form or calling 615-212-9866 to speak with an experienced Tennessee truck accident lawyer.
Sources
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Data on pedestrian and cyclist fatalities involving large trucks.
https://www.nhtsa.gov - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) – Commercial truck safety rules and driver responsibilities.
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Injury prevention data for pedestrians and cyclists.
https://www.cdc.gov
