Truck Accidents on the Rise in Tennessee

By Thomas Greer | January 27, 2015

Truck accidents tend to make the news because of how large the truck is – and because of how extensive the damage can be. If the numbers from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security are any indication, accidents involving large trucks are on the rise. So far, there have been seven fatalities in accidents involving large trucks, one more than we saw throughout all of 2014.

Why trucks crash

Truck drivers, like any motor vehicle driver, can crash a number of reasons. Some of the more common reasons include:

  • Driver distraction. Cell phones, GPS units, even a burger from a local take-out place – all of these take a driver’s attention away from the road.
  • Driver fatigue. Despite the laws governing how long a truck driver may be on the road at any given time, many truck crashes are caused by drivers who have been on the road too long and are simply too tired to keep d
  • Driver intoxication. Drivers with long shifts or with sleep deprivation may rely on energy drinks or “uppers” to keep themselves awake. Highly-caffeinated drinks and pills can make drivers jittery and affect their ability to react to changes in road conditions or to other drivers the same way being drunk behind the wheel can.
  • Improperly maintained trucks. Tires that are too flat or starting to bald, or problems with the air brakes or gear shifters can cause an accident even when the driver has done everything right. If the driver or a company supervisor fails to properly inspect and maintain a commercial truck, the consequences can be d
  • Unbalanced cargo. When cargo is packed impurely, or a truck is too heavy, the entire tractor trailer can tip over or jack-knife if the driver tries to make a turn too sharply or hit the brakes too hard.
  • Failing to obey the rules of the road. Speeding, tailgating or weaving in between cars are all dangerous practices. A truck driver with “road rage” or who is more concerned with his or her time than with driving safely can cause a serious accid

Depending on the reasons for the crash, an accident victim may be able to name the driver, the company or event he manufacturer in a lawsuit to recover compensation. With the number of truck crashes on the rise in Tennessee, your chances of being involved in such an accident are increasing, too. The right Memphis truck accident attorney should be able to help recover what you need.

If you have suffered in a truck crash in or around Memphis, the personal injury attorneys of Bailey & Greer, PLLC want to hear your story. Please contact our office to discuss your case with a lawyer who understands the consequences of a truck-related accident.

Posted in Auto Accidents, Blog