If you were in a collision caused by a tow truck driver, understanding your rights and the civil court claims process is essential. Because of the size and weight of commercial vehicles and the equipment they carry, tow truck crashes can be severe and result in extensive damage. It is crucial to build a compelling claim to prove liability and obtain a just settlement.
Contact The Law Office of David E. Gordon & Elissa M. Coombs today. Our hardworking and knowledgeable attorney can answer your questions about the process for receiving compensation after tow truck accidents in Memphis.
Common Injuries After a Tow Truck Crash
Unfortunately, collisions with tow trucks—which are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles—can lead to severe and life-altering injuries for Memphis drivers. Some examples include the following:
- Neck injuries, such as whiplash, caused by the sudden impact
- Deep cuts, lacerations, and abrasions from shattered glass and other flying debris
- Fractured bones in various body parts, including arms, legs, and ribs
- Spinal cord injuries, ranging from less severe to traumatic, which can cause partial or complete paralysis and long-term mobility issues
- Head, skull, or traumatic brain injuries resulting from the head striking a surface or violently jarring during impact
- Internal organ injuries, which can be hazardous when they are not apparent immediately
- Severe burns if the accident causes fires or explosions
The potential amount of the settlement depends on the specifics of the case. Contact David and Elissa to discuss how a client’s injuries can affect the compensation that may be awarded.
What Are the Recoverable Damages?
The recoverable compensation for tow truck crashes in Memphis can vary significantly, depending on the actions of the defendant and the severity of injuries and other losses suffered by the client. Some types of damages considered include:
- Healthcare costs, including fees for ambulance transportation, emergency room treatment, doctor visits, surgeries, and ongoing medical care related to the injuries sustained in the crash
- Lost salary and benefits for the time the injured person is at home recovering, and lost earning potential if they are unable to return to work
- Costs for medical devices or equipment, medication, and transportation for medical care
- Permanent scarring, disfigurement, and disabilities
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of the enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship
The civil court typically breaks the settlement into two parts. The first is economic damages, which include the verifiable monetary losses associated with the cause of action. The second part is non-economic damages, which include injuries that are not as easy to quantify, such as pain and suffering endured due to the collision.
Time Limitations to File an Injury Claim
The civil court’s personal injury statute of limitations sets a strictly enforced deadline for commencing legal action after suffering injuries and other losses due to the careless actions of another party. Under the Tennessee Code § 28-3-104, a person injured in a Memphis tow truck wreck must file their petition in civil court within one year of the date of the accident.
Missing this deadline gives the defendant cause to request that the court dismiss the claim without hearing it, and it generally grants these requests. Therefore, gathering evidence and preparing the case promptly is crucial.
Speak to a Memphis Attorney About Tow Truck Crashes Today
The size of commercial vehicles, such as tow trucks, often makes crashes with regular passenger cars severe. When a negligent driver causes a collision and you or someone you love sustains bodily harm, you can commence legal action to obtain a settlement to cover the injuries and losses.
An experienced lawyer at The Law Office of David E. Gordon & Elissa M. Coombs is qualified to assist you after tow truck accidents in Memphis. Call today to schedule your free consultation and let us help you navigate this challenging process.
