Trucking Accident Lawyer Memphis, TN

Trucking accident lawyer Memphis, TN

In the aftermath of a Tennessee truck accident, you may be able to seek compensation for the harm you have suffered through a claim against the at-fault party’s insurer and/or through the personal injury claims process. In cases involving truck accidents, seeking an insurance settlement may be a viable option as opposed to having to take your case to court. However, insurance companies are a business and as such, one of their primary concerns is protecting their profits. As a result, it is important to have a trucking accident lawyer in Memphis, TN on your side during settlement negotiations.

Questionable Insurance Company Practices

The insurance industry earns billions of dollars in profits each year. In addition to making money through premiums paid by customers, they protect their profits by carefully monitoring the amounts they pay out in claims.

According to multiple surveys, insurance regulators frequently receive complaints against insurance companies from consumers who feel they were taken advantage of or otherwise treated unfairly. Nearly two-thirds of these complaints center around accident liability and auto insurance policies. Among the most common problems encountered include:

Insurance claims denials
Excessive delays in processing claims
Unsatisfactory settlement amounts, which are less than what the claimant needs or deserves

When filing a claim for truck accidents, it is important to be aware of the company’s underlying motives and to take the steps needed to protect yourself. Working with an experienced Memphis, TN trucking accident lawyer will allow you to have a knowledgeable advocate in your corner, which will reduce the risk that you’ll ultimately be awarded an insufficient settlement amount.

Protecting Yourself when Filing a Claim

When dealing with insurance companies, it is important to be aware that many of them have a history of denying, delaying, or downplaying claims. This is because they are in the business of making a profit and paying out claims cuts into that profit. A Memphis, TN trucking accident lawyer knows that the following are steps you can take to protect your rights:

When any type of accidental injury occurs, report it immediately to the proper authorities so that an accident report can be filed.
Always seek medical attention even if you suspect your injuries are minor, as this provides important documentation.
File a claim as soon as possible. Any delays on your part could be used to justify a denial.
Gather as much evidence as possible at the truck accident scene. This includes taking photos, getting witness contact information, and making notes of the exact time and location. There may be nearby video monitoring devices that may have captured how the accident occurred.
Before making any statements or signing any documents, speak with an experienced Memphis, TN trucking accident lawyer first

Have You Been Injured?

If you or your loved one were injured in a truck accident recently, you need the help of a trucking accident lawyer in Memphis, TN. Truck accidents are often serious, leaving victims with devastating injuries, emotionally scarred and financially burdened. When you are a truck accident victim, it can feel overwhelming to deal with the aftermath. Perhaps you are in the hospital, recovering from extensive injuries. You might feel concerned about how all of the medical bills will be paid, in addition to recovering money for lost wages, time, and other important losses. The Memphis, TN trucking accident lawyer at Patterson Bray understands what you might be going through and would like to offer you a complimentary consultation to discuss the details of the case. Please call a trucking accident lawyer from the Memphis, TN area now to get started.

When you are seeking a law firm who can offer a successful trucking accident lawyer Memphis, TN recommends, there are many to choose from, but there is only one like Patterson Bray. For years, we have been fighting for innocent victims of truck accidents. Guided by our confidence, zealous approach, and determination to get results, we are recognized as a law firm who can offer a skilled trucking accident lawyer in Memphis, TN. We have achieved excellent results for our clients that have allowed them to accelerate their recovery and obtain peace of mind. To arrange a free consultation with one of our truck accident lawyers, please call 901-372-5003.

For years, a trucking accident lawyer in the Memphis, Tennessee area has been pursuing compensation for people who were tragically involved in an accident involving a commercial truck. Tractor trailers, 18-wheelers, construction vehicles, and other commercial trucks are large, often weighing between 30,000 and 80,000 pounds. This is 10-20 times the weight of an average family sedan. Victims have very little time to react against such a devastating collision. When a truck accident happens, the sheer impact often causes catastrophic injuries to those who were involved, especially pedestrians or occupants of a smaller car. These include head injuries, leg injuries, brain injuries, amputations, and permanent disabilities. After a truck accident, the psychological and physical impact often takes an extreme toll on victims. Years of recovery may be needed, and even then, life might never be the same.

Sadly, a majority of these collisions could have been prevented. Often truck drivers or other negligent parties could have taken the extra precautions to avoid a truck accident from occurring. Unfortunately, many drivers engage in reckless behavior that puts them and other people at risk. The fact of the matter is that when something like this happens, a Memphis, Tennessee trucking accident lawyer may be able to help file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against any and all negligent parties, such as:

The truck driver
The truck company
The truck maintenance company
The driver of another vehicle
A government entity or organization*

*Whenever the government is involved in a personal injury claim, the process is considerably different. For starters, the statute of limitations is significantly less. Because the government is involved, the legal process contains additional steps and the whole experience is much more complex. Such cases are handled successfully only by skilled truck accident lawyers who are highly familiar with state and federal law. This means you should consult a Memphis, TN trucking accident lawyer as quickly as possible.

What to Do Following a Collision with a Commercial Truck

More than likely, you will have required immediate medical attention after a truck accident. This is because most of these collisions involve serious and possibly even life-threatening injuries. Even if you believe that you have only sustained minor injuries, always receive prompt medical attention right away. A doctor should assess your condition so they can write a medical report, which is crucial to include in a trucking accident case. Following a collision with a commercial truck, be sure to obtain statements from any witnesses who might have been at the scene. Take photos if you are able, and if not, have someone else take them for you. You should also get a copy of the police report so you can read details about how the accident occurred. It is important to take these steps so that you can prepare the strongest case that you can. Show this to a lawyer and they will evaluate your case and determine the next steps that you should take.

Assuming you are now recovering, you should call a trucking accident lawyer Memphis, TN trusts. An attorney from our firm can arrange to meet you in a hospital or at your home. We may help you to file a police report if this has not already been done. If you are the parent, child, spouse, partner, or other immediate family member to a person who was incapacitated or killed in a truck accident, we encourage you to call Patterson Bray immediately.

When to Consult a Memphis Trucking Accident Lawyer

Every year, thousands of people are injured in truck accidents in the United States. Both small and commercial trucks can cause serious, catastrophic injuries because of the size and impact. A truck accident can have many causes. While the cause of each of these is different, there are typically similar factors involved–usually, negligence or carelessness. When this holds true, you may be able to seek legal representation to receive monetary compensation. Negligence is often a primary factor in many truck accident cases where victims are seriously injured. Examples of negligence include:

Failing to signal
Reckless driving
Driving under the influence
Lack of driver training or experience
Speeding
Load violations
Faulty parts
Tire blowout
Broken axle
Brake failure
Improper maintenance on the truck
Poor road or weather conditions

It’s possible that more than one of the aforementioned was involved in your accident; for example, poor weather conditions could have exacerbated the effects of a tire blowout from an overloaded truck. In cases where more than one cause is involved, it can be even more challenging to prove that the other driver is liable and negligent. The defendant may even use those additional factors to their advantage, and argue that they are free from liability because their actions are not what led to the accident. It is recommended that you hire a trucking accident lawyer who has the experience to handle your case successfully and secure a proper settlement. Even if the cause of the accident is not listed above, you should contact a trucking accident lawyer Memphis, TN residents regularly consult for further advice.

When You Are Filing on Behalf of a Loved One

It is devastating and painful to have a loved one become injured as a result of an accident. If your loved one was in the accident and is unable to call a lawyer, is incapacitated, or died, as long as you are any of the following you should be able to file a claim:

A spouse
A parent
A child
A domestic partner

Depending on the state, as well as other circumstances, non-immediate family members may be able to file a claim. A trucking accident lawyer from our Memphis, TN office can explain this to you during your free case review.

What to Do When You Are Contacted By the Other Party’s Insurance Company

Sometime after your accident, you may be contacted by the insurance adjusters of another party. They may be seeking information about the collision or wish to get a statement from you. They might also claim to take responsibility for what happened, and follow up with a settlement offer. As tempting as this will be, it is in your best interest to decline everything. You are not obligated to disclose any information to them if they ask you about the accident. Do not answer any of their questions or agree to their statements. If they approach you, simply tell them that your lawyer will negotiate with them on your behalf. Even if they hand you a settlement offer, do not accept it and only tell your lawyer that an offer was extended to you. Insurance companies are driven by profit and will do their best to pay as little as they can after an accident. They are not on your side, and will be trying to settle for much less than you deserve. At this point, you should seek further advice from a trucking accident lawyer Memphis, TN prefers from Patterson Bray.

Honest Answers From Truck Accident Attorneys

Victims of trucking accidents stand to reckon with a variety of questions. Injuries from trucking accidents can be incredibly devastating. Because of this, victims who have succumbed to a trucking accident are faced with a period that is full of unknowns. Patterson Bray is well aware of the challenges accident victims stand to experience on the road ahead. With many years of experience, obtaining our assistance can prove to be key in outlining the process for how best to proceed.

Who should I pursue a trucking accident claim against?

Determining whom accident victims should obtain compensation from is perhaps one of the most key components to initiate the claims process. For victims, correctly determining the appropriate party can help in pursuance of the legal process. For many, it may appear as though the truck driver may be the likely culprit when it comes to negligence. We can help you take a closer look at your case to determine if there are more than one negligent parties. In fact, a Memphis, TN trucking accident lawyer can help you identify the responsible parties, such as:

The truck driver
The truck driving company
The truck manufacturer
The maintenance/repair company

Accident victims pursuing an accident claim may experience a prolonged process should they identify the wrong party to pursue a claim against. We can work closely with you to identify the responsible party to help ensure that you experience a smoother process.

How long will it take to reach a resolution with my case?

Most accident victims are hoping to reach a resolution to their accident claim as quickly as possible. The road that lies ahead can be full of unknowns. Perhaps the most challenging component is the reality that a resolution to your case can take a significant period of time. While pursuing an accident claim with the insurance company is likely to be a faster process, it can still be unclear as to when a resolution may be reached. It can be challenging to pinpoint exactly how long it may take to reach a resolution. However, we will work closely with you to negotiate a settlement in your favor as quickly as possible. Our attorneys will do this by approaching your case fully prepared to face, manage and negotiate your case in the way you deserve.

Do I need an attorney to pursue a trucking accident?

While you may have the ability to take legal action without legal assistance, it’s not recommended. Trucking accidents can result in outcomes that can be especially devastating. Because of this, accident victims stand to obtain significant compensation. Traumatic and painful injuries surely allow for fair compensation. With the stressors victims stand to face, it’s key to utilize an experienced professional like a trucking accident lawyer Memphis, TN recommends from Patterson Bray for the assistance you deserve. Not only can we help you organize your case, we can take a closer look at your case by gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies.

Truck Accident Wrongful Death Lawyer

The truck accident lawyers at Patterson Bray have a professional legal team ready to help the victims of truck accidents. These collisions are often catastrophic and involve serious, life changing injuries. Sadly a number of truck accidents are fatal, and could have been prevented had it not been for the negligent actions of a party. In general, the negligent party is none other than the driver of the truck, the truck company, or parts manufacturer. When negligence is involved, and causes another person to lose their life, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim with a Memphis, TN truck accident lawyer.

Truck Accident Fatalities

Trucking is fundamental to the U.S. economy. Every day, thousands of trucks traverse interstates, highways, expressways, city roads, and back roads. Many reach their destination with ease, but some do not. When 60,000-80,000 pounds of force hits another vehicle, the results can be devastating. Entire lives can be irreparably changed, and others are lost. As lawyers who frequently handle truck accident claims, we have found comparable results as those released by the Department of Transportation. These suggest that most fatal truck accidents are not due to driver error, but rather because of external forces such as:

Overreacting
Oversteering
Fatigue
Distracted driving
Blind spots

Our cases have also involved:

Tire blowouts
Brake malfunctions
Road obstacle
Poor weather
A third party
Cargo spill
Lane changing

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim

To file a wrongful death claim, the deceased should be related to you. In general, a spouse, legal partner, sibling, or parent qualify as a person to pursue legal actions. There are exceptions to this rule and can be further explained by a truck accident lawyer in Memphis, TN. You claim should also show:

There was a truck accident, and your loved one died.
The defendant acted negligently.
You suffered financial loss.

These factors might sound easy to prove; however, when it comes to wrongful death truck accident claims, there are often challenges that need to be overcome. Our lawyers have known defendants to:

Say the driver was an independent contractor; therefore, is not responsible (i.e. the truck company)
Blame the accident on the deceased
Claim the accident was an “act of God”

We understand the tactics used to ward off blame, and can help to craft an undeniable legal claim that preserves maximum compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, pain, suffering, loss of consortium, and more.

A Wrongful Death Law Firm Who Will Fight for You

As a family member of someone who died in a truck accident, you likely have the right to file a wrongful death claim. There are statute of limitations which means you should not waste anymore time in beginning the process. Rest assured, a truck accident lawyer in Memphis, TN will be there to provide you with legal support so you can begin to find closure in this unfortunate event. To learn more about pursuing monetary compensation, call a truck accident lawyer in Memphis, TN who cares.

Dealing With a Concussion After a Truck Accident

According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are almost 40,000 people killed in car accidents each year. Another 2.5 million car accident victims are left with serious injuries. Victims can suffer broken bones, bruises, internal injuries, and brain injuries. One of the most common brain injuries that car crash victims sustain is a concussion.

A concussion is an injury to the brain which is caused by shaking of the brain. This shaking results in brain tissue hitting the walls of the skull. There are several ways that a concussion can happen, including the violent shaking of the head, being hit by an object, or if the head hits a surface or object. They are common injuries in truck accidents.

One of the most dangerous issues with concussions is that the symptoms do not always show up right away. A delay in symptoms means a delay in diagnosis and a delay in treatment. This can be very dangerous for the victim.

If a person who has been in a truck crash has any of the following symptoms, they should seek out medical attention immediately:

Changes in mood or usual behaviors
Difficulty standing or walking
Difficulty staying awake
Dizziness
Issues with speech, like slurring
Issues with vision, like blurriness
Loss of consciousness either during or right after the crash
Nausea
One pupil is bigger than the other
Persistent headaches that become increasingly worse
Trouble remembering the accident
Vomiting

There are three classifications of concussions. Treatment depends on how serious the concussion is. For Grade 1 and Grade 2 concussions, the victim is usually ordered to rest until all symptoms are gone. Grade 3 concussions are much more serious than the other two types and require more extensive treatments. Victims often have to go through diagnostic testing to see what the extent of the injury is, as well as to determine if there is any internal bleeding.

We Are On Your Side

Our firm has extensive experience in getting successful results for victims and their family members. We are well versed in the laws and regulations on a state and federal level. We are also smart, diligent, and prepared to aggressively fight for what you need and deserve. To learn more, call a trucking accident lawyer that Memphis, TN residents trust from Patterson Bray today.

Whether you have been injured in a truck accident, or are ready to seek compensation on behalf of a person who was incapacitated or has died as a result of a collision, we are ready to listen your story. Call Patterson Bray today, and start working with a trucking accident lawyer Memphis, TN residents can count on, at 901-372-5003.

Trucking Accidents & Injuries

We understand how devastating injuries from truck accidents can be. They may cause you to be unable to work or to require expensive medical treatments, and they may change your life forever. For these reasons, it is important for you to work with a truck accident lawyer in Memphis, TN from Patterson Bray PLLC who can help you recover financially as a result of the injuries you have suffered.

Our truck accident lawyers in Memphis, TN know that the financial recovery you receive can make all the difference in your quality of life after a truck accident has occurred.

What should I do if I’m in a truck accident?

If you are in a truck accident, it is essential that you call the police right away. You will also want to get medical help at once. If possible, take pictures of the scene and write down everything that happened while your memory is still fresh. Do not talk about fault with anyone except your trucking accident lawyer in Memphis, TN, and do not sign anything without talking to an attorney first.

As your truck accident attorneys, we will aggressively represent your interests. Whether that involves negotiating a settlement or representing you in court, we are here to protect your rights. We fight for our clients when they cannot fight for themselves. Our truck accident lawyers in Memphis, TN will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.

Get Legal Help for Your Truck Accident Injury Claims

The attorneys at Patterson Bray PLLC can help you with your personal injury claim, so don’t hesitate to contact us today to speak with a truck accident lawyer and start maximizing the compensation you deserve.

If you hire a lawyer from Patterson Bray PLLC, a truck accident lawyer in Memphis, TN, you can save yourself a lot of money in the long run too. In the event that your case goes to trial and you do not have a lawyer on your side, you will likely have to incur significantly high costs as a result.

Why hire Patterson Bray PLLC as your trucking accident lawyer?

As a car driver, you always have to be on the lookout for other drivers. Indeed, it is just one of the many hazards of riding a motorcycle. Unfortunately, when you are involved in an accident with a tractor-trailer or 18 wheeler, the results can be devastating.

If you have been injured in an accident with a large commercial truck, you will need an experienced trucking accident lawyer in Memphis, TN to help you fight for justice and compensation. After all, trucking companies are known for hiring some of the best lawyers and insurance companies to protect their interests, and they do not care about your rights.

At Patterson Bray PLLC, our team of experienced trucking accident lawyers is dedicated to fighting for your rights every step of the way. We understand how devastating these accidents can be — physically, financially, and emotionally — so we will stop at nothing to help you recover maximum compensation for your injuries. Call us today to book your consultation!