Highways and interstates around Chattanooga see a constant stream of semi-trucks transporting goods across state lines. Dubbed Freight Alley, the city sits at the crossroads of I-24 and I-75, with more than 33 million tons of freight expected to pass through by 2035.

With so many trucks moving through the region, collisions involving semis can be catastrophic and complicated. Out-of-state trucking companies operate under different rules, and dealing with their insurance providers isn’t always straightforward.

These accidents often involve:

  • Federal trucking regulations that set specific safety and liability standards.
  • Multiple insurance policies making it difficult to determine coverage.
  • Disputes over fault, with multiple parties potentially responsible for the damages.

Learn how experienced Chattanooga truck accident lawyers can help you manage the legal process of an out-of-state truck accident and pursue maximum financial recovery.

How Semi-Truck Accidents Differ From Car Accidents

Car accidents usually involve two drivers and their auto insurance policies. Truck accidents, however, are far more complex and can include multiple responsible parties, such as:

  • Trucking companies that own and operate fleets of vehicles.
  • Drivers who may be employees or independent contractors.
  • Third parties such as cargo loaders, maintenance providers, or manufacturers.

Each of these parties could contribute to a crash, and liability depends on the cause of the accident. As a result, an injured person may need to file claims with multiple insurance policies instead of just one.

Another difference is that semi-trucks are regulated at the federal level. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces strict safety regulations that trucking companies and drivers must follow. Violating these rules can affect liability in a truck accident case.

Who Can Be Held Responsible in a Truck Accident?

Truck accident claims often involve more than just the driver. Multiple parties may share liability depending on what went wrong:

  • Truck drivers can be at fault for speeding, distraction, fatigue, impairment, or violating regulations.
  • Trucking companies may be liable for unsafe deadlines, poor maintenance, or hiring unqualified drivers.
  • Cargo loading companies can be responsible for overloading, unsecured cargo, or unbalanced loads.
  • Manufacturers or repair providers may be at fault for defective parts, poor maintenance, or faulty repairs.

Filing a claim against one or more of these parties relies on clear evidence of fault.

Challenges of Filing a Claim Against an Out-of-State Trucking Company

Filing a claim after a truck accident is already complex, but additional legal challenges can arise when the trucking company is based in another state. These may include:

  • Jurisdictional Issues: Courts generally have jurisdiction where the accident occurred, but trucking companies may push to have the case heard in their home state. This can create challenges for victims, making it harder to attend hearings, collaborate with a local attorney, and navigate unfamiliar legal procedures.
  • Insurance Complications: Many trucking companies carry layered insurance policies, with one covering the truck and others covering the trailer, cargo, or even the bobtail.

When dealing with out-of-state insurers, they may attempt to shift liability between policies or stall the claims process, making it harder to secure a fair settlement.

  • Differing State Laws: Trucking laws, liability standards, and compensation limits vary by state, affecting how fault is determined and the damages you can recover.

For example, Tennessee follows a modified comparative fault rule, allowing you to seek compensation if you are less than 50% at fault. Alabama, on the other hand, applies strict contributory negligence, meaning you cannot recover damages if you share any responsibility for the crash.

  • Longer Resolution Times: Out-of-state claims often take longer because of additional legal filings, the need to coordinate between different jurisdictions, and insurers delaying negotiations. If a lawsuit becomes necessary, scheduling court dates and depositions across state lines can add more time to the process.

In addition to these issues, federal rules for commercial carriers can make proving fault more challenging.

FMCSA Regulations and Their Role in Determining Fault

Federal trucking laws help establish liability when a semi-truck is involved in an accident. The FMCSA sets strict safety regulations, and violations can prove negligence. Common violations that impact truck accident cases include:

  • Exceeding federal Hours-of-Service limits or falsifying logs can indicate negligence in a crash.
  • Failing to maintain brakes, tires, or lights may leave the trucking company liable for mechanical failures.
  • Overloading or securing cargo improperly increases the risk of rollovers or jackknife accidents, which can make the loader or company liable.
  • Allowing a driver to continue working despite failed drug or alcohol tests can make the employer responsible.

Although these violations can serve as key evidence of fault, obtaining the necessary records can be challenging. An experienced truck accident attorney can secure logbooks, inspection reports, and test results, ensuring a strong case for liability.

How Massey & Associates, PC Can Help, Even If the Truck Is From Another State

Accidents involving out-of-state trucking companies require legal experience in state and federal laws. At Massey & Associates, PC, we know how to handle these complex cases, including:

  • Determining which state has jurisdiction over the case
  • Investigating FMCSA violations and gathering evidence
  • Negotiating with multiple insurance companies
  • Filing claims against trucking companies, drivers, or third parties

Even if the truck that caused the crash was not based in Tennessee, our team can handle the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Out-of-state trucking companies have teams ready to protect their interests after a crash, making it harder for victims to get the answers and support they need. Massey & Associates, PC knows how these cases work and what it takes to hold trucking companies accountable.

Our knowledgeable attorneys can help gather key records, challenge unfair tactics, and help secure the financial recovery you deserve.

Don’t let trucking companies delay or deny your claim. Call Massey & Associates, PC today for a free consultation and get the legal support you need to pursue maximum compensation.