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Car Accidents

Tennessee car crash allegedly caused by teen texting

Texting while driving is quickly becoming one of the major causes of car accidents. This seems to be the case in a recent car crash involving an Englewood teenage driver and a deputy in McMinn County. According to reports, the male teenager was driving a Honda Civic west on State Route 39 around 7:12 a.m. on June 4. At the time, a county deputy was traveling in the opposite direction.

Eyewitnesses say the teenager crossed over the centerline and into the path of the deputy’s vehicle. While the deputy reportedly attempted to avoid a collision by hitting his brakes and pulling onto the shoulder, the teenager’s car struck him head-on. Both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. The deputy suffered broken ribs and a possible ankle injury and was transported by air to a hospital. The teenager was also taken to a hospital with unknown injuries. He is facing various charges that include texting while driving and failure to exercise due care.

A federal study shows that texting while driving is six times as dangerous as drunk driving. Nearly 25 percent of all U.S. crashes involve the use of cellphones. A local body shop agrees with those percentages, saying that a substantial portion of their business is related to texting while driving.

A car accident can happen suddenly and unexpectedly and can result in severe injuries or death. A person injured in a car accident may suffer a loss of income if their injuries prevent them from returning to work. Injured individuals may wish to seek the advice of a car accident attorney. A legal professional can inform them of their rights and predict if a civil suit is a valid option.

Source: WRCBtv, “UPDATE: Teen allegedly texting while driving has head-on collision with deputy“, June 05, 2014

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Car Accidents

Head-on collision in Tennessee kills 1 driver, injures another

A 66-year-old woman reportedly died in a head-on accident in Knoxville on June 2. Another motorist involved in the crash suffered injuries that officials do not believe to be life-threatening.

According to Knoxville police, the fatal accident occurred on North Broadway Street in Fountain City at approximately 5:46 p.m. Police said the 66-year-old woman was driving a Subaru Forester in the southbound lane of the road when she swerved across the grassy median and entered into the northbound lanes. That is where she collided head-on with a Dodge Charger, police said.

An ambulance transported the driver of the Dodge Charger to the University of Tennessee Medical Center after officials extricated the driver from the Charger. Police did not state what caused the woman to veer across the median but said they are continuing to investigate the accident.

Motorists involved in accidents as catastrophic as this one may suffer serious injuries to the head, neck or spinal cord. These injuries often require surgery, long-term rehabilitation and significant time off from work, all of which may create financial hardship for accident victims. For this reason, many people who suffer damages as a result of a car accident seek financial compensation in civil court.

By retaining a personal injury attorney and filing suit, accident victims may seek restitution for hospital bills, medical expenses, rehabilitation costs and even lost wages if their injuries prove to be disabling. To succeed, claimants in such a lawsuit must demonstrate the specific damages they suffered as a result of the incident. The personal injury attorney may show victims what materials to retain or obtain as evidence.

Source: KnoxNews.com, “North Broadway back open after fatal head-on crash“, June 02, 2014

Categories
Truck Accidents

Multi-vehicle crash kills 2 in Knoxville

On May 30, a fatal accident occurred on Interstate 40 at the eastbound exit to the Asheville Highway. When traffic apparently came to a standstill, the driver of a tractor-trailer collided into the back of a car, pushing it into an SUV. Both the 44-year-old male driver and 64-year-old female passenger in the middle vehicle died in the accident.

Knoxville police believe another vehicle collision took place in the same area because of the first set of collisions. Reports suggest that a different truck plowed into the back of a Dodge Charger, and the car careened into a wall, sideswiping another vehicle. One person from this second crash was transported to the University of Tennessee Medical Center.

The driver of the first tractor-trailer was taken to the hospital for emotional anguish, and police indicated that no charges had been filed at the time of reporting. Speaking to news outlets after the incident, a Knoxville police sergeant indicated this section of road experiences the heaviest traffic in the city. The crash reportedly backed up traffic for several hours until the scene was cleared at around 5 p.m.

When a fatal semi-truck accident occurs, there may be underlying factors involved such as driver fatigue or faulty brakes. The driver or the trucking company may be considered liable depending on the outcome of the police investigation even if police do not cite the at-fault parties. Family members of the deceased could choose to pursue a wrongful death claim. A personal injury lawyer might assist them with building a case and could help the plaintiffs throughout settlement negotiations and litigation.

Source: WBIR, “Fatal 6-vehicle crash snarls I-40 traffic for hours“, May 30, 2014

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Truck Accidents

Three-vehicle semi truck accident closes Interstate 24 for hours

Tractor-trailer wrecks are among the most dangerous and serious of any collisions on the road. Unfortunately, many people are injured and killed in these accidents each year across Tennessee roads. Victims of semi truck accidents may face long-term pain and suffering in addition to expensive medical and physical therapy bills. There may also be funeral expenses to consider for families of a deceased person.

An accident involving multiple vehicles closed down a stretch of I-24 in Montgomery County. The accident occurred near Clarksville, and it included three tractor trailers. 

The potential for catastrophic injury in an accident like this is often quite high, especially for motorists in smaller commercial and passenger vehicles. Whether a vehicle is struck directly by the semi truck, hit by cargo that was carried on the trailer, or involved in a collision that stems from the initial collision, drivers on the road are at risk when a semi truck loses control. This is especially true when more than one truck is involved, as in the accident on I-24.

There are many questions involved with an accident like this one. Who is at fault? Could the accident have been avoided? In some cases, a semi truck driver may have inadequate sleep, causing him to lose focus or even fall asleep behind the wheel. Mechanical failures and complications also contribute to the frequency of semi truck accidents. Understanding the cause of a collision and the legal recourse available to you can help you pursue the settlement you deserve for your case. 

Source: WKRN- TV Nashville, “I-24 reopens in Montgomery County after serious crash,” May 20, 2014

Categories
Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclist killed in collision near Tennessee border

Each spring, Tennesseans climb on the back of their motorcycles and head out on the road. Unfortunately, riders are susceptible to injuries while on their bikes, and even a slight mishap can lead to serious injuries. Motorcycle accidents commonly cause harm to riders’ heads and necks. These types of injuries can result in long-term disabilities and pain, and they can even end a rider’s life.

The stretch of U.S. 129 known as “The Dragon” is one of the country’s most popular riding places, and its many bends provide a great riding experience. However, its twists and turns can also pose a hazard to motorists, and fatalities are recorded each year along the stretch. 

According to the BCSO, a motorcycle rider was recently struck and killed on “The Dragon.” The accident occurred one afternoon when the rider of the motorcycle rounded a bend and collided with a passenger vehicle. According to reports, bystanders performed CPR on the rider until emergency personnel could arrive, though the rider was pronounced to be dead at the scene. Initial reports did not specify the cause of the accident, though the rear end of the rider’s motorcycle reportedly struck the car’s front end.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a Tennessee motorcycle accident, or if fatalities have occurred from a collision, it is important for you to understand your rights and the options available to you. Help is available to help you pay for expensive medical bills, funeral costs and pain and suffering. Taking the right steps in your case can help you obtain the compensation you deserve. 

Source: The Daily Times, “Pennsylvania motorcycle rider killed on ‘The Dragon’,” May 20, 2014

Categories
Drunk Driving Accidents

DUI enforcement aims to reduce auto accidents

A car accident can be a difficult and painful event in life. This is especially true when the driver responsible for the car accident was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Knowing that the event was the result of another person’s recklessness can make the frustrations of dealing with the aftermath even more troubling. Whether it is paying medical, bills, handling insurance claims or finding repairs or a new vehicle, recovering from a wreck can be a time-consuming and expensive process.

A nationwide effort to reduce the occurrence of accidents from drunk driving and other causes is underway. It is called the Drive to Zero Fatalities initiative. Part of this effort involves increased DUI and seat belt enforcement. The Department of Safety and Homeland Security Commissioner for Tennessee explains that the goal of the new initiative is to eliminate as many traffic fatalities as possible.

Currently, impaired driving is estimated to be responsible for nearly one-third of all motor vehicle accident fatalities, and it is also a factor in many non-fatal accidents. In the city of Jackson, Tennessee, the number of DUI arrests has increased by roughly 20 percent in the past year as law enforcement officials seek out drivers who place themselves and others in potentially dangerous situations.

Although progress is taking place, the risk of suffering an accident at the hands of a drunk driver remains a very real possibility. If you have been in an accident that involved a drunk driver or a drugged driver, experienced personal injury attorneys may be able to help you. Working through medical bills and insurance claims can be difficult, though being familiar with all of your options and the specific steps involved can help in the process of trying to obtain the best resolution to your situation.

Source: Jackson Sun, “State crash deaths decrease,” Beth Knoll, May 13, 2014

Categories
Fatal Motor Vehicle Accidents

Anderson County head-on collision leaves 1 dead

The loss of a loved one in a car accident is always difficult. In addition to the pain associated with losing someone special, friends and relatives must take care of hospital bills, funeral expenses and several other concerns. To help people find their way through this troubling time, it is possible for them to pursue a wrongful death case. This takes into account the nature of the accident and assigns liability to one or more parties.

In Anderson County, one person is dead after a collision between a pickup truck and a semitruck. The accident occurred around 6 a.m. on Edgemoor Road. A pickup truck apparently collided head-on with a semitruck on the road resulting in the death of one person. Police were conducting an investigation to determine the nature of the accident and its cause. An initial eyewitness report suggested the driver of the pickup lost control of the vehicle.

Fatal accidents can happen very quickly on the road, and there are many different factors that can play a role. It may the result of negligence by another driver on the road, or it may be the result of a mechanical malfunction in a vehicle. In the accident on Edgemoor, it is possible the driver of the vehicle experienced a problem with his pickup that caused him to lose control.

No matter how an accident comes about, it is important for those associated with a victim to pursue an appropriate outcome for the case. Understanding Tennessee law and the options available to friends and relatives of the deceased is the first step toward obtaining the compensation needed to navigate the difficult time.

Source: Local 8, “Edgemoor Road reopens following fatal accident,” May 14, 2014

Categories
Truck Accidents

Man critically injured in Tennessee after semi-truck collision

Any motor vehicle accident has the potential to cause serious and even life-threatening injuries to those involved, though the involvement of semi-trucks escalates the threat to all parties involved. A truck accident can result from several circumstances, from negligence on the part of the driver to a mechanical malfunction in the vehicle. No matter the cause of the accident, motorists who suffer injuries in these accidents should be aware of their rights and the opportunities available to help them obtain help for their circumstance.

In Montgomery County, one person is critically injured after a multiple-vehicle collision involving a semi-truck. The accident began after a Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper pulled over to investigate a vehicle that had crashed into a ditch after leaving the road on I-24. While the trooper was investigating, a multivehicle accident occurred near the trooper’s position. The trooper was hit but fortunately has since been treated by the hospital and released. 

According to the initial report, a semi-truck ran into a tow truck in the accident, and two other cars were involved. The driver of the tow truck suffered serious injuries as the result of the collision, and he was taken to Vanderbilt Medical Center for treatment. Police report that the driver of one of the cars may have slowed down to unsafe speeds while passing the trooper. The driver of the car and the driver of the tractor trailer may face charges for their involvement in the accident.

Injuries suffered during a car accident can result in expensive medical bills, missed time at work and long term pain and suffering. Motorists injured by a tractor trailer may be entitled to a settlement to help them work through the difficult time. Understanding Tennessee law is the first step toward achieving a suitable outcome. 

Source: WZTV Nashville, “Tow Truck Driver Critically Injured in Officer-Involved Accident in Montgomery County,” May 9, 2014

Categories
Car Accidents

Multivehicle accident in Blount County results in death of 1

A car accident can leave you feeling confused and frustrated. In addition to finding repairs for your vehicle or a new car altogether, you may need to pay large medical bills or seek physical therapy for a long-term accident injury. You must also work with your insurance provider to handle claims, which can create a new set of frustrations. Fortunately, there are some options available to you to ensure you obtain the best outcome for your situation. Taking steps to learn about your options and Tennessee laws regarding car accidents can help you make the right choices in your case.

In Blount County, two people were injured and another killed in a three-car accident. The accident occurred on U.S. 411 South. According to the initial report, a man was driving his Nissan Altima north along the road and entered a continuous turn lane in order to pass other vehicles. While moving at high speeds, the driver lost control of his vehicle, veered into southbound traffic and collided with another vehicle, which contained one female driver. After the initial collision, the man’s car spun into another oncoming vehicle. The second vehicle was carrying a man and a woman.

The male driver responsible for the collision was not wearing his seat belt and was ejected from his vehicle during the accident. He was taken by aircraft to receive medical attention. The female driver of the first vehicle hit also required medical attention, and she was brought to Blount Memorial Hospital. The man and woman in the third vehicle were taken to University of Tennessee Medical Center, where the woman, who was driving the car, was pronounced dead.

The accident serves as an example of how quickly innocent drivers can become involved in a serious accident on the road. If you have been injured in an accident caused by another driver, it is important for you to pursue compensation to help you pay for damages to your vehicle, medical bills and pain and suffering. 

Source: The Daily Times, “Tellico Plains woman killed in crash on U.S. 411,” Iva Butler and J.J. Kindred, May 12, 2014

Categories
Truck Accidents

Truck catches fire after crash in Tennessee

Trucks are not an uncommon sight on Tennessee’s roads. As a result, it is easy to forget the amount of damage that can be caused when one of these vehicles runs into trouble. Drivers have often traveled great distances and may not know the area well. Add to that the possibility of distractions, or simple carelessness, and it quickly becomes apparent how easy it is for a truck accident to occur on the busy roads of Tennessee.

One such incident occurred recently when a semi-truck ran into the back of a tractor-trailer on the Interstate. Tennessee Highway Patrol was called to the late-afternoon crash, which had rapidly become an alarming scene. The semi-truck had caught fire during the accident and the driver had to be transported to a local medical center to be treated for minor injuries.

The driver of the tractor-trailer that was struck from behind appeared to be unharmed. However, the scale of the accident meant that the southbound lanes of the Interstate had to be closed for a number of hours to allow the devastation to be cleared. The semi driver has since been accused of failing to execute due care. He is also thought to have been texting when the accident occurred.

When truck drivers are found to be responsible for an accident, the company employing them can sometimes be liable as well. It is important to establish whether drivers have been adequately trained and if they have been allowed enough time to rest.

This crash in Tennessee could have had far more serious repercussions. Fortunately, neither driver was killed. If you are involved in a truck accident, particularly if you feel the truck driver was negligent or irresponsible, you may wish to claim compensation. An attorney may be able to help you with this, by ensuring a full investigation into the circumstances of the accident.

Source: WCYB, “Driver cited after tractor trailer crash on Interstate 81,” May 3, 2014