Jackson, TN Override Accidents
An override accident is one of the most dangerous types of truck crashes in the Jackson area. Sadly, when a large big rig runs over the back of a smaller car, the car’s occupants usually suffer severe or fatal injuries as the car may be crushed by the impact and weight of the big rig. With Jackson being conveniently positioned on Interstate 40, many commercial trucks pass through the city each day. As a result, override accidents occur frequently. If you are the victim of an override accident that was caused by the trucker’s negligence, call the Jackson truck accident lawyers at Nahon, Saharovich & Trotz for a free consultation. We are the largest plaintiff’s personal injury law firm based in Tennessee, and we have more than 30 years of experience representing the victims of trucking accidents.
Assistance for Persons Injured in Override Accidents
If you can establish negligence on the part of the truck driver, then you will be able to seek recovery from the driver, or the trucking company in some instances, for your losses. Many times, the truck driver will be deemed at fault in an override accident for following too closely or failing to leave sufficient stopping distance. Since commercial trucks weigh tens of thousands of pounds, the truck’s bumper may actually run over the back of the smaller car, causing catastrophic results. Many of these accidents occur when the big truck is tailgating, speeding, driving distracted or fatigued, or otherwise being careless. In all of these instances, the truck driver should be responsible for any property damage or bodily injuries that result, and the victim will be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In some cases, however, the smaller vehicle may bear a portion of responsibility. Suppose the car cut the big rig driver off or pulled out in front of the truck. In those instances, it is likely that the car driver will be deemed at least partially at fault for the accident. However, the victim may still be able to seek recovery for his injuries under state law. Generally, a victim can seek recovery in Tennessee so long as his or her share of the blame for the accident is less than 50%. If so, then any comparative negligence will reduce the amount of compensation he or she receives. Suppose the driver of the car pulled out in front of a speeding truck. In that case, both parties may share some blame for the accident. If the driver of the car is found to be 30% at fault for pulling out in front of the truck and the truck driver is 70% at fault for speeding, then the victim’s recovery will be reduced by his comparative negligence – here by 30%.
In some cases, the override accident victim may be able to pursue a claim against the trucking company for negligent hiring, training, or supervision. Suppose the truck driver fell asleep at the wheel because he had been driving for too long without a break, causing him to run into the vehicle in front of him. If the employer encouraged or routinely ignored its drivers’ hour of service violations, the trucking company may be held directly liable for negligent supervision, and the injured party would be able to sue the trucking company for his losses. An experienced semi-truck accident lawyer in Jackson, TN will be able to identify all potential tortfeasors and help you pursue recovery against those negligent parties.
Let Our Lawyers Protect Your Legal Rights Following a Trucking Accident in Jackson
Override accidents are potentially deadly crashes that occur between big rigs and smaller vehicles. If you have been injured in an override or another type of trucking accident, Nahon, Saharovich & Trotz’s Jackson attorneys may be able to assist you in recovering monetary damages for your losses. Do not face off against the trucking company alone. Contact our office toll-free by calling 800-529-4004 or by completing our online form to set up a free consultation.
