Get Real Justice with Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorneys Serving Clients in Nashville & Throughout Tennessee
When you are injured or a loved one is killed in a commercial vehicle crash, you need a Nashville commercial vehicle accident lawyer with the experience, compassion, and drive to pursue Real Justice. Our team at Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers sees the devastation these accidents cause for victims and their families every day. If someone else’s negligence was at the root of the crash, they need to be held accountable for the losses you’ve suffered.
Your recovery isn’t just about covering medical bills; it’s about reclaiming stability and peace of mind. That means addressing not only your immediate health needs but also your lost income, future care costs, emotional well-being, and ability to live on your own terms. You can count on our steadfast Nashville commercial vehicle accident attorneys to Keep It Real by focusing on how this crash has affected your life.
Were you hurt or did you lose a cherished loved one in an accident with a commercial vehicle? Call Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers today at 615-813-1111 or contact us online to schedule your FREE no-obligation consultation. The sooner we get involved, the closer you are to the Real Results you deserve.
What Is Considered a Commercial Vehicle in Tennessee?
In 2024, the Tennessee Department of Safety reported more than 13,000 crashes statewide involving at least one large truck or other commercial vehicle. Over 3,000 of those occurred in Davidson County. These collisions aren’t exclusively on interstates. They take place on city streets, in work zones, at neighborhood intersections, and on rural roads as well.
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But what is considered a “commercial vehicle”?
Under Tennessee Code, a commercial vehicle includes motor vehicles used in “commerce to transport passengers or property” if they meet certain criteria, such as having a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more (e.g., garbage trucks, semi-trucks, transit buses), being designed to carry 16 or more passengers, or being of any size if used to transport hazardous materials. These are the types of vehicles that typically require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate.
Many smaller vehicles are also considered “commercial vehicles” (e.g., delivery vans, rideshare vehicles, service trucks). Some require special licenses or training to operate, while others do not. However, because they’re used for business and often insured under commercial policies, there can be several legal challenges when pursuing a claim.
Why does this classification matter? Because it determines which insurance applies, the coverage available, and who can be held financially responsible. On top of that, multiple layers of federal, state, and local laws may apply. Claims can become complex and contentious, especially when corporate defense teams and insurers get involved.
Examples of commercial vehicles include:
- Delivery vans
- Box trucks
- Utility trucks & service vehicles
- Tow trucks
- Construction vehicles
- Dump trucks
- Rideshare vehicles
- Shuttles
- Buses
- Government or municipal work trucks
- Corporate fleet cars
The team at Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers knows how to handle these cases. More importantly, the insurance companies know us. Our reputation as experienced, trial-ready, Real Advocates precedes us, and they’ll think twice before playing games.
Why Choose Us?
When you’re facing one of the toughest moments of your life, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a trusted ally who will stand with you and fight for your rights.
Common Types of Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Nashville
Accidents involving commercial vehicles carry risks unique to their size, purpose, and prevalence. These crashes can cause disastrous damage even at lower speeds, especially in crowded city streets. Common types of accidents include:
Collisions with Larger Commercial Vehicles
- Multi-vehicle crashes with 18-wheelers
- Rear-end collisions on city streets, highways, or interstates
- Rollover accidents from sharp turns or unsafe driving
- Jackknife accidents & underride collisions
Accidents Involving Smaller or Specialized Commercial Vehicles
- Pedestrian, motorcycle, or bicycle crashes involving delivery vans, rideshare, or service vehicles
- Work zone collisions with construction, utility, or municipal trucks
- Blind spot accidents where drivers fail to see smaller vehicles
Mechanical or Cargo-Related Failures
- Accidents caused by improper loading, unsecured cargo, or shifting loads
- Crashes due to poor maintenance, skipped inspections, tire blowouts, or mechanical failure
Types of Claims We Handle
Our Nashville commercial vehicle attorneys have the experience, skill, and determination to take on your commercial vehicle accident case. We’ve successfully and routinely handled many different kinds of claims, including those involving:
- Delivery vans
- Semi-trucks
- Service vehicles
- Rideshare vehicles
- Construction vehicles
- Utility vehicles
- Garbage & dump trucks
- Transit buses
- Motorcoaches
- Shuttles
- And more
These accidents can often involve:
- Fatigued or distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Unsafe company driving policies
- Defective parts
- Inadequate repairs
- Employer liability
If your accident involved a commercial vehicle, chances are there may be multiple liable parties. We know how to determine who’s responsible and fight to hold them accountable for your losses.
– you are in good hands!
Can I Seek Compensation After an Accident with a Commercial Vehicle in Tennessee?
Yes. If another party’s negligence caused your injuries, you may very well have a valid claim for compensation. But Tennessee has one of the shortest statutes of limitations in the country—just 1 year—so it’s important to act fast. To properly pursue your claim, we need to get started as soon as possible.
Even if you are concerned you may be partially at fault for the accident, you could still recover damages. Tennessee follows a modified comparative fault rule that allows you to seek compensation if you are less than 50% at fault. Your award would just be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Accident victims in Tennessee may be able to recover compensation for damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Household services
- Pain & suffering
- Emotional distress
- Physical impairment or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
If your loved one was killed in the crash, you may be able to pursue damages through a wrongful death claim. Damages could include:
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship, guidance & consortium
- And more
You’ve already been through enough with the bills, the pain and stress, and the uncertainty about your future. Let our team champion your legal fight so you can focus on healing and rebuilding. Contact us today to schedule a FREE case evaluation with our compassionate and determined Tennessee commercial vehicle accident attorneys.
Who’s Liable in a Commercial Vehicle Accident?
Determining liability can be complicated in these cases because multiple parties may share responsibility. To get to the bottom of this, we will:
- Identify all possible defendants (driver, employer, maintenance provider, manufacturer, etc.)
- Collect and review maintenance logs, GPS data, driver records, and company policies
- Interview witnesses and obtain surveillance footage
- Consult accident reconstruction experts to clarify fault
Potentially liable parties include:
- The driver
- The driver’s employer or contracting company
- Vehicle maintenance companies
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers
- Government entities responsible for public transportation or road safety
When Is a Commercial Vehicle Driver Considered Negligent?
A driver may be found negligent if they:
- Drive distracted, fatigued, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Violate traffic laws
- Fail to follow federal, state, or local safety regulations
- Fail to secure cargo properly
- Speed or drive recklessly
If there’s any question about who should be held accountable, our Nashville commercial vehicle accident attorneys are ready to get to work and figure it out. We start with a FREE consultation. If your claim is viable and you decide to move forward, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means we don’t get paid until you do. Let’s talk!
Do I Really Need a Nashville Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer To Get Real Results?
Legally, you aren’t required to hire a commercial truck accident lawyer for an injury claim. In reality, it’s often in your best interest, especially if you want to maximize your compensation.
Commercial vehicle accidents frequently involve facing off against corporations and insurers that are primarily concerned with keeping their money in their deep pockets. They don’t care about how this accident has affected you.
Having practiced and compassionate legal assistance ensures that your needs, wants, and future are prioritized. Don’t take chances when your physical, emotional, and financial health are on the line.
We believe that every victim of negligence deserves the highest standard of representation. That means Real Justice for everything you’ve been through and rekindled hope going forward. Our Nashville commercial vehicle accident attorneys will:
- Gather crucial evidence like GPS data, driver logs & company policies
- Identify every liable party to maximize your claim
- Handle all communication with insurance companies & representatives
- Work with reconstructionists & other experts to prove your case
- Utilize personalized, trial-ready strategies to keep the pressure on for a full & fair settlement
At Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers, we are well known for Keeping It Real. We stay accessible, transparent and focused on you and your goals from moment one. Contact our team today to set up a FREE case evaluation.
How Long Do I Have To File a Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim in Tennessee?
Unfortunately, Tennessee has one of the shortest filing deadlines in the country. The statute of limitations on personal injury claims, including motor vehicle claims, is just 1 year from the date of the accident. If a government-owned or operated vehicle is involved, you may have even less time to give formal notice of your claim.
These deadlines are strict, and building a strong case takes time. Evidence must be located and analyzed before it disappears or is destroyed. Witnesses need to be interviewed while memories are still fresh, and accident reconstruction or expert review can require much preparation.
Acting quickly gives our commercial truck crash attorneys the best chance to protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation you’re entitled to under the law. Were you injured or did you lose a loved one in a commercial vehicle accident? Contact us today to schedule a FREE case evaluation. We’re ready when you are.
Real Advocacy, Real Experience, Real Justice—Start Today!
Your claim is more than paperwork and should be treated that way. This is your life, your health, your stability, your future. When you work with Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers, you get a commercial truck accident law firm that treats you and your case with the urgency, respect, and care it deserves.
Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with us:
- No Fee Unless We Win: You won’t pay any upfront legal fees. We only get paid when we secure compensation for you.
- 20+ Years of Trial Experience: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know we’re serious.
- Comprehensive Investigation: From securing maintenance logs to interviewing witnesses, we investigate thoroughly.
- Client-Centered Representation: We want you to tell us your story so we can tailor our approach to your needs and goals.
- Clear Communication: You’ll always know where your case stands and what comes next.
- Compassionate Support: We understand the strain you’re under, and we’re here to help shoulder that burden.
Contact Our Nashville Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyers Today for a FREE Consultation
Commercial vehicle crashes can leave you facing serious injuries, steep medical bills, and an uphill fight with insurance companies. At Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers, we Keep It Real. Our team of Nashville commercial accident lawyers listens, gets you answers, and provides unwavering support while we pursue the compensation you need and deserve.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a commercial vehicle accident in Tennessee, don’t wait. Call 615-813-1111 or reach out online today for your FREE, no-obligation consultation. The path to Real Justice may seem uncertain, but we know the way.