Recreational Vehicle Accidents

Recreational vehicles (RVs) are a common sight on Tennessee’s roads and highways, but they can be difficult for the average motorist to maneuver and can sometimes cause accidents. Knoxville RV accident attorney Mark C. Hartsoe can help you if you were hurt in a recreational vehicle accident. Mr. Hartsoe has represented personal injury victims in Tennessee for over twenty-five years, and is committed to helping his clients seek the maximum compensation for their injuries. If you were injured in a recreational vehicle accident, call our office today to discuss your case.

Thousands of individuals and families explore Tennessee in their RVs each year. These vehicles offer the opportunity to travel on the road with many of the comforts of home, but can also pose a danger to their occupants and other motorists. In Tennessee, a recreational vehicle is designed to be used as temporary living quarters for recreation, camping, or travel. They include motor homes and trailers, and can be either motorized or towed by other vehicles. The number of recreational vehicles on the road has increased since 2005. According to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association, the number of households that own recreational vehicle grew to 8.9 million in 2011, an increase from the 7.9 million in 2005.

Unlike an ordinary car, RVs can be difficult for the average motorist to maneuver. Their sheer size means they are more likely to roll over and have catastrophic consequences in an accident.

A recreational vehicle accident can result in life-threatening injuries, and the party or parties responsible for the accident may be held accountable. Although recreational vehicles can rival a truck in size, there are no specific federal or state licensing requirements in place for the driver of a recreational vehicle. This means that even a novice driver can get behind the wheel of an RV.

Recreational vehicle drivers must still exercise care in the operation of their vehicle under Tennessee law. A person who is injured in a recreational vehicle accident can hold the driver liable if he or she can establish that the:

• Driver breached this duty of care, and
• Breach of the duty caused the victim’s injuries.

In addition to driver carelessness, there may be other factors, such as a defective tire or other mechanical malfunction, that can cause or contribute to a recreational vehicle accident. In such cases, a victim may be able hold the manufacturer of the recreational vehicle or of the defective part liable under a theory of strict liability. To prevail in this kind of claim, the victim would have to show that the defective condition existed when the product left the manufacturer’s control, and that it was the cause of his or her injuries.

RV accidents can leave a person with severe injuries and may be fatal in some cases. An accident victim may recover damages from the at-fault party by filing a personal injury claim. If you were hurt in a recreational vehicle accident, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical bills, loss of income, property damage, and pain and suffering.

You also may be able to file a wrongful death claim in Tennessee if your loved one died in a recreational vehicle accident. You may potentially recover for their medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of consortium.

Knoxville personal injury lawyer Mark C. Hartsoe can provide you with the comprehensive legal guidance you need to help you if you were hurt in a recreational vehicle accident. Mr. Hartsoe is prepared to investigate your case, answer your questions, and discuss your legal rights with you. He will work towards negotiating a fair settlement on your behalf and vigorously represent you in court if necessary. Call us today at 865-804-1011 or contact us online for a free consultation.