How Tennessee Truck Crash Causes Are Determined
Tennessee large truck accidents can be the most devastating, injurious and even fatal highway mishaps. Being hit by an 18,000 pound fully loaded semi has been compared to being hit by a three-story apartment building. And if it happens to you, your life can be changed forever.
For these reasons, the questions of liability and finding fault come up. Who is responsible in Tennessee trucking accidents and who decides what caused them?
First, the federal government governs the trucking industry with a strict set of laws and regulations that are overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. In addition, each state has its own set of trucking rules.
In the past, the trucking industry could often dodge civil lawsuits. But current laws and practices have changed this. If there is an accident involving a commercial truck and trailer, the following procedures are standard:
- A certified truck inspector must inspect the mechanical condition of all parts of the truck and trailer before they are removed from the scene. The inspector is usually part of the reconstruction division of the state police, but the report is federal.
- Today’s trucking industry uses a device much like the “black box” used in airplanes to record data. This device records how fast the truck was traveling, braking information and the length of time the trucker had been on the road.
Most of us do not understand the complex laws surrounding the trucking industry well enough to know how our accident was caused and if someone else was liable. That is why it is a good idea to get some legal advice if you are involved in a Tennessee truck accident.
Bailey & Greer in Memphis, an experienced Memphis truck accident law firm, provide expert legal representation for victims of serious trucking accidents. Call us toll free today at 901-680-9777 if you need advice. We offer a free case consultation.
Since graduating magna cum laude in 2005 from the University of Memphis School of Law, Thomas has helped make a difference in the lives of victims of serious personal injury, wrongful death, and professional negligence. Thomas has extensive trial experience in both state and federal court. Among other victories in the courtroom, Thomas obtained several impressive jury verdicts and settlements
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