Tow Truck Accidents in Tennessee

Legal Support for the Injured

At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we represent individuals and families who have sustained serious injuries or devastating losses due to tow truck accidents. These incidents often involve significant damage because of the size, weight, and sometimes erratic movement of tow trucks, particularly when they are towing other vehicles or operating along busy roadways. Led by attorney John Day, our firm assists clients throughout Nashville, Davidson County, and across Tennessee, guiding them through the complex legal aftermath of these high-risk and frequently catastrophic events.

Tow truck crashes present unique legal and safety considerations. Whether the accident was caused by a reckless tow truck operator, a negligent hook-up procedure, or careless roadside recovery, we investigate each case thoroughly and pursue full compensation for our clients under Tennessee law.

What Makes Tow Truck Accidents Unique?

Tow trucks come in several varieties—such as flatbeds, wheel-lifts, and hook-and-chain trucks—and serve different purposes, including emergency roadside assistance, impound towing, and transporting disabled vehicles. These trucks frequently operate in challenging environments, such as active crash scenes, congested highways, poor weather conditions, and low-visibility situations. Because of this, tow truck drivers often face increased risks and may cause or be involved in collisions due to improper traffic blocking, unsecured loads, unsafe reversing, or lack of adequate lighting and warning signals. Additionally, the nature of tow truck operation—such as stopping or maneuvering in atypical traffic patterns—places surrounding motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians at greater risk of being injured or even killed.

Common Causes of Tow Truck Crashes

Several recurring factors contribute to tow truck accidents. One of the most dangerous is the improper securing of vehicles. If a towed car shifts, becomes detached, or drags during transport, it can result in multi-vehicle collisions or severe pedestrian injuries. Inexperienced or negligent drivers are also a major risk, especially when operating under stress or in high-speed environments. Lack of training, fatigue, aggressive driving, and failure to signal all increase the likelihood of a crash. Roadside hazards, such as sudden movements into traffic or inadequate visibility, also contribute to collisions. Equipment failures—such as hydraulic lift malfunctions, brake failures, or snapped winch cables—can cause a tow truck to behave unpredictably. Finally, violations of safety regulations, such as skipping vehicle inspections, exceeding weight limits, or ignoring hours-of-service laws, can have deadly consequences.

Legal Regulations Governing Tow Truck Operations

Tow trucks engaged in commercial activities or roadside assistance must comply with both federal and Tennessee state laws. Under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), operators may be subject to several requirements, including general safety rules (49 C.F.R. §§ 390–396), limits on driving hours to prevent fatigue (49 C.F.R. § 395), and mandatory equipment such as brakes, lighting, and coupling devices (49 C.F.R. § 393). In Tennessee, tow trucks must adhere to T.C.A. § 55-8-154, which governs rules on stopping, standing, and parking along roadways; T.C.A. § 55-50-301, which addresses CDL licensing and endorsements for commercial vehicles; and T.C.A. § 55-4-110, which regulates the registration and operation of wrecker vehicles. In addition to these statutes, many municipalities have local ordinances addressing issues such as signage, towing fees, and dispatch procedures, particularly for non-consensual tows from private property.

Determining Liability in Tow Truck Accidents

Establishing liability in a tow truck accident often involves identifying multiple parties. The driver may be directly liable if they acted recklessly—for example, by towing a car improperly, failing to signal, or speeding. Tow truck companies can also be held accountable for negligent hiring, inadequate driver training, poor vehicle maintenance, and failure to enforce safety protocols. If faulty equipment such as hydraulic lifts or winches played a role, the manufacturer may be responsible under product liability law. Injuries Common in Tow Truck Accidents

Tow truck collisions frequently result in severe injuries due to the size of the vehicle and the environments in which they operate. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord damage leading to paralysis, internal organ damage, crush injuries, burns, amputations, or death. Even low-speed incidents can be fatal if a towed vehicle detaches or if a pedestrian or cyclist is struck by a reversing or maneuvering tow truck.

How The Law Offices of John Day, P.C. Can Help

Our firm offers thorough and strategic representation in tow truck accident cases. We begin with a detailed case evaluation, listening carefully to your account and reviewing accident reports, witness statements, and medical records. We assess compliance with state and federal towing regulations and identify any violations. We then conduct a detailed investigation to determine whether safety protocols were followed, examine tow truck maintenance logs and driver records, and gather any available dash cam or surveillance footage. In cases involving equipment failure, we work with engineers to analyze design flaws or mechanical issues.

We approach each case with a readiness to litigate. While we pursue fair settlements through negotiations, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. We are not a settlement mill—we are experienced trial attorneys who take pride in holding companies accountable when negligence leads to harm.

Types of Compensation Available

Victims of tow truck accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation. These can include medical expenses (both immediate and future), lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage, and loss of enjoyment of life. In wrongful death cases, families may recover compensation for funeral and burial costs,  loss of companionship, and loss of financial support. In instances of recklessness or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be available under T.C.A. § 29-39-104.

Statute of Limitations in Tennessee

In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims is one year from the date of the accident, as established in T.C.A. § 28-3-104. This is among the shortest deadlines in the country, and missing it can permanently bar your claim. Taking prompt legal action helps preserve critical evidence and gives your case the best chance for a successful outcome.

What to Do After a Tow Truck Accident

To protect your legal rights and strengthen your potential claim, it is important to take several steps immediately following a tow truck accident. First, call 911 to ensure law enforcement is notified and medical assistance is provided. Take photographs of the tow truck, your vehicle, the road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather information from the tow truck driver, including their name, company affiliation, and insurance details. Even if you do not feel seriously injured, seek medical evaluation, as symptoms can develop later. Avoid speaking with insurance representatives on your own—let your attorney handle all communications to protect your interests. Most importantly, contact an experienced lawyer as soon as possible so evidence can be preserved, and your legal strategy can begin.

Serving Nashville, Davidson County, and Beyond

At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we proudly represent tow truck accident victims across Nashville, Davidson County, and Middle Tennessee. With office locations in Brentwood, Murfreesboro, and Nashville, we are easily accessible and deeply committed to helping our clients secure the justice and compensation they deserve. We offer free, confidential consultations, charge no upfront legal fees, and only get paid if we recover compensation on your behalf. Our team is here to provide honest, compassionate communication and personalized support every step of the way.

Contact Us Today

If you or someone you love has been injured in a tow truck accident, contact The Law Offices of John Day, P.C. today. Our team is ready to investigate your case, explain your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life with confidence.