Knoxville, TN (March 12, 2024) – A deadly crash early Tuesday morning on Interstate 40 East near Exit 407 claimed the life of a 28-year-old man.

According to reports, the collision happened around 2:30 a.m. when a vehicle driven by Charles A. Cox crashed into a semi-truck that was stopped to rest. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, where Cox was pronounced dead from his injuries. The driver of the semi-truck was unharmed. Authorities closed multiple lanes of I-40 East for several hours as crews worked to clear the wreckage and investigate the cause of the accident. Lanes were reopened by approximately 6 a.m. The crash remains under investigation at this time.

Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Charles A. Cox.

Truck Accidents in Tennessee

Tennessee sees a significant number of truck-related crashes every year. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions with passenger vehicles often lead to severe injuries or fatalities. In 2023, the Tennessee Department of Safety reported thousands of crashes involving large trucks, many resulting in serious harm. Highways and interstates are common locations for these accidents, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours when visibility is reduced and fatigue can be a factor.

Understanding the risks of truck accidents can help prevent future tragedies. Here are some common factors that contribute to these crashes:

• Fatigue Among Drivers – Long hours on the road can lead to exhaustion, increasing the risk of mistakes. Both truck drivers and passenger vehicle drivers must recognize the dangers of drowsy driving.
• Blind Spots – Large trucks have extensive blind spots where smaller vehicles can disappear from view. Drivers should remain aware of these zones to reduce the risk of collisions.
• Stopping Distance – Semi-trucks require a much greater distance to come to a complete stop. Sudden braking in front of a truck can result in rear-end collisions with severe consequences.
• Highway Parking Risks – Trucks often stop on the side of highways for rest breaks, creating hazards for approaching drivers, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving – Excessive speed and aggressive maneuvers can make accidents more likely. Maintaining a safe speed and following road rules can help prevent crashes.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it is important to take legal action as soon as possible. Seeking legal guidance can help protect your rights and ensure you receive proper compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Contact our Knoxville wrongful death attorney to discuss your options today.

At DZ Law, we understand how difficult life can be after a serious accident. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping crash victims and their families navigate the legal process and seek justice. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a crash, don't wait to get the help you need. Call us today at 865-259-0020 for a free consultation. We are here to listen, support, and fight for you every step of the way.

Notes: This post was compiled using information from secondary sources, including but not limited to local news outlets, state and local police reports, social media, and eyewitness accounts related to serious accidents in Eastern Tennessee. While DZ Law strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we have not independently verified all details of this incident. If you believe any information in this post is inaccurate, please contact us immediately so we can make corrections and ensure accuracy. Additionally, we are happy to honor requests to remove this post if necessary.

Disclaimers: This accident update is provided solely for informational purposes and is not intended as a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, seek medical attention immediately. Please note that the content in this post should not be interpreted as medical or legal advice. Additionally, the image accompanying this post is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual scene of the accident described.