At Tennessee Accident Law, we recognize the profound loss and heartbreak caused by a wrongful death truck accident. When a loved one is tragically killed due to the negligence of a truck driver or trucking company, the resulting emotional and financial burden on the family can be overwhelming. Our dedicated legal team is here to guide you through the complex process of pursuing a wrongful death claim, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call us now at 615-212-9866 to speak with an experienced attorney about your truck accident case.
What is a Wrongful Death Truck Accident?
A wrongful death truck accident occurs when a person’s death results from the negligent or reckless actions of a commercial truck driver, trucking company, or other responsible parties. Due to the size and force of large trucks—such as tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers—accidents involving these vehicles often lead to catastrophic injuries and fatalities.
Under Tennessee law, a wrongful death claim can be filed by eligible survivors, including spouses, children, and parents. These claims seek compensation for damages caused by the death, helping families recover financially and emotionally.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Truck Accidents
Many wrongful death truck accident cases stem from preventable errors or violations of safety regulations, including:
Driver fatigue
Truckers sometimes exceed federally mandated hours of service, leading to exhaustion.
Distracted driving
Cell phone use, GPS interaction, and other distractions impair focus.
Driving under the influence
Alcohol or drug impairment severely increases crash risk.
Mechanical failures
Brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or other maintenance issues.
Overloading cargo
Exceeding weight limits destabilizes the truck.
Speeding and reckless behavior
Driving too fast or making dangerous maneuvers.
Negligent hiring and supervision
Trucking companies hiring unqualified or poorly trained drivers.
Each of these factors plays a significant role in establishing liability in a wrongful death lawsuit.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Wrongful Death Truck Accident?
Determining liability in a wrongful death truck accident often involves multiple parties, such as:
Truck driver
Responsible for negligent or reckless driving.
Trucking company
Accountable for hiring practices, supervision, and regulatory compliance.
Truck owner
May be liable if responsible for maintenance.
Cargo loaders
If improper loading contributed to the accident.
Manufacturers or parts suppliers
If defective parts caused mechanical failure.
Our attorneys conduct detailed investigations to identify and hold all responsible parties accountable.
The Importance of Preserving Evidence in a Wrongful Death Truck Accident Case
A crucial step in any wrongful death truck accident claim is the preservation of evidence immediately following the accident. Evidence can easily be lost or destroyed, which can jeopardize your case.
Key evidence includes:
Photos and videos of the accident scene
Capturing vehicle positions, skid marks, and road conditions.
Black box data (Electronic Logging Devices – ELDs)
Recording driver speed, braking, and hours driven.
Driver logs and records
Verifying compliance with federal regulations.
Eyewitness statements
Corroborate the sequence of events.
Official police and accident reports
Establishing fault.
Vehicle maintenance and inspection records
Revealing potential mechanical negligence.
At Tennessee Accident Law, we act swiftly to secure this evidence, ensuring it remains intact and admissible in court.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Claim?
Although no compensation can truly replace your loved one, pursuing a wrongful death truck accident claim can provide essential financial relief for your family. Recoverable damages may include:
Medical expenses
Incurred before death.
Funeral and burial costs
Loss of income and financial support
Loss of companionship and emotional support
Mental anguish and suffering
Loss of parental guidance
For surviving children.
In egregious cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish reckless behavior.
Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Truck Accident Claims in Tennessee
Tennessee enforces a strict one-year statute of limitations from the date of death for filing wrongful death claims (Tennessee Code § 28-3-104). Missing this deadline typically results in dismissal of the case.
Prompt legal action is essential. Our attorneys at Tennessee Accident Law are ready to start your case immediately, ensuring all deadlines are met and your claim is protected.
How Tennessee Accident Law Supports Families in Wrongful Death Cases
At Tennessee Accident Law, we combine compassionate support with aggressive legal advocacy. Our services include:
Comprehensive investigation
Collecting all relevant evidence including black box data and witness accounts.
Expert collaboration
Partnering with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and financial analysts.
Insurance negotiation
Dealing with powerful trucking companies and their insurers to secure fair settlements.
Trial readiness
Preparing to litigate if negotiations fail.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
Take Action Today
The death of a loved one in a wrongful death truck accident is devastating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Understanding your legal rights and acting quickly can make all the difference.
Complete our free case evaluation form now or call us at 615-212-9866 to discuss your case with a skilled wrongful death attorney. At Tennessee Accident Law, we are committed to fighting for justice on your behalf.
Sources
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Comprehensive resource on trucking safety regulations and accident data.
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov - Tennessee Code Annotated – Wrongful Death Statutes
Official state laws governing wrongful death claims in Tennessee.
https://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/tncode - Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) – Large Truck Crash Facts
In-depth research and statistics on large truck crashes and fatalities.
https://www.iihs.org/topics/fatality-statistics/detail/large-trucks
