Truck Wreck Lawyer Georgia
Our versatile team is well seasoned in handling various traffic violations within Georgia’s courts and municipalities, including truck wreck cases. If you have been injured or experienced property damage due to a commercial truck wreck, then our team is prepared to fight for you. The Law Offices Of Andrew Lynch works to protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
Trucking accidents commonly result in egregious damages and unwarranted emotional distress for the victims involved. These cases often involve more than one at-fault party and both the truck driver and the truck driver’s employer are liable for damages. Working with The Law Offices Of Andrew Lynch means you are hiring a truck wreck lawyer Georgia trusts. Rest assured that you are in good hands and we will fight for the compensation you are entitled to with your specific case.
There are numerous vehicles that qualify as commercial trucks. The determining criteria generally considers the weight of the vehicle, with the gross vehicle weight ranking at 26,000 pounds or greater. Tracker trailers typically weigh in at 70,000 to 80,000 pounds, exponentially larger than the average sedan, at 3,000-4,000 pounds. The following vehicles are all considered to be trucks in the state of Georgia:
- Delivery truck
- 18-wheeler
- Tractor trailer
- Box truck
- Dump truck
- Oil/gas truck
- Big rig
- Semi-trailer
- Tow truck
- Commercial truck
- Refrigerated truck
Why Truck Accidents Happen?
Big vehicles such as commercial trucks or tractor-trailers can cause immense damage to passenger cars simply because of their hefty weight and size. Many truck accidents happen because of recklessness or negligence committed on behalf of the trucker, trucking company, or part manufacturer. Before pursuing compensation from who you suspect is at fault, it’s important to have a lawyer confirm who should be listed in your lawsuit.
Examples of when a truck driver or other party may be responsible for a truck accident include:
- Distracted or fatigued driving
- Failing to adjust to changing road conditions or weather
- Failing to properly train workers before operating a truck
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Driving while under influence of alcohol and/or drugs
- Failing to enforce break and rest periods for drivers
- Failing to perform routine maintenance on the truck
- Failing to properly test parts for defects
- Failing to replace old or broken vehicle parts
Accidents involving a truck are often at the fault of truck drivers themselves. It can pay off to use defensive strategies in general when driving but paying particular attention to the dangers that these trucks pose. Always keep your eyes on the road, abide by posted speed limits, and give trucks plenty of space when needed.
However, a person cannot completely prevent a truck accident from happening, so in the event that it does, certain steps must be taken. Get medical attention, call 911, gather evidence, and speak with the lawyer about whether your case necessitates legal action. Your lawyer can evaluate the situation and let you know what your options are moving forward.
Georgia Truck Wreck Law Infographic
Georgia Truck Wreck Lawyer
Commercial truck accidents can happen in many places as an Atlanta truck wreck lawyer knows. Given their size and the potential for serious damage in an accident, the Peach State has set stringent regulations and laws pertaining to truck operations. For victims involved in a truck wreck, understanding these laws is vital to securing rightful compensation.
The Weight Of Georgia’s Trucking Regulations
Federal and state regulations govern the trucking industry. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets national regulations that every trucker and trucking company must follow. These regulations cover various aspects of trucking, from the number of hours a driver can be on the road to truck maintenance and equipment standards. However, Georgia has its own set of regulations that complement federal rules. These laws touch on specifics like weight restrictions on certain roadways and licensing requirements for commercial drivers. One significant Georgia-specific rule is the requirement for commercial trucks to carry higher amounts of insurance coverage than regular vehicles, given the potential for more significant damage in the event of a collision.
The Significance Of Liability And Negligence
In the aftermath of a truck wreck, the concept of liability becomes paramount. Georgia follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. What this means is, if a victim is found to be partially at fault for the accident, their compensation may be reduced in proportion to their fault. However, if they are found to be 50% or more at fault, they might not be eligible for any compensation at all. A skilled Atlanta truck wreck lawyer can determine the degree of fault and whether compensation can be recovered. They can help decipher the complexities of liability, ensuring that victims understand their rights and the potential pitfalls in their claims.
The Role Of Evidence In Truck Wrecks
A key advantage of having a lawyer is that they can gather a large amount of evidence. Modern commercial trucks are equipped with electronic logging devices (ELDs) which record data about the truck’s operations, such as speed, brake usage, and hours on the road. This information can be invaluable in proving negligence on the part of the truck driver or trucking company. Georgia law mandates that trucking companies retain certain records for a specified period. These can include driver training records, maintenance logs, and previous accident records. A proficient Georgia + truck wreck lawyer would be skilled in procuring and analyzing this evidence to build a compelling case.
Partnering With The Right Legal Expert
The intricacies of Georgia’s truck wreck laws, combined with the potential severity of injuries and damages in such accidents, make it imperative to have an expert legal ally. The Law Offices Of Andrew Lynch have been steadfast in representing victims, ensuring they get the justice and compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck-related accident in Georgia, don’t leave your fate in the hands of just any attorney. Trust a seasoned Georgia + truck wreck lawyer to champion your cause. Set up a consultation with a seasoned lawyer so that you can obtain the outcome that you deserve.
Georgia Truck Wreck Law FAQs
What Should I Do if I’ve Been Involved in a Truck Accident?
This is one of the most frequent questions, but you might be surprised to know you already know the answer. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, treat it like a regular car accident – but be ready to take down as much information as possible.
Yes, a truck accident is scary and involves a big rig, but at the end of the day, you go through pretty much the same motions as a “regular” car accident. Stay calm, call emergency services, and make sure you’re in a safe space before getting out to assess the damage. If anyone has been injured, you’ll need to make sure they get medical attention as soon as possible.
The main difference between truck accidents and car accidents usually has to do with the aftermath. While you’re documenting the accident and taking photos of everything, you might notice that the truck is either an independently contracted vehicle, or part of a corporate fleet. This is where things start getting a little different.
Who Pays My Damages in a Truck Accident?
This is another question people usually have for their Georgia truck wreck lawyers. When it comes to any kind of vehicle accident, people always wonder “Who’s going to pay for this?” In a truck wreck, it really depends on whether the truck is part of a fleet, or operated by an independent contractor.
If you were involved in a truck accident with a truck that was part of a corporate fleet, the corporation’s insurance will step in. But if the truck operator was an independent contractor, they’ll have their own insurance policy that should reimburse you if the truck operator was deemed at-fault. However, it’s important to remember that not all insurance providers are quick to release your much-needed funds.
How Can a Truck Wreck Lawyer Help Me?
A truck wreck can cause serious injury, and you can’t always rely on insurance providers to release your money in a timely fashion. Many insurance providers actually make more money by sitting on your money and letting it generate interest, so it’s not always in their best interest to give you your money when you need it most.
And of course, if you were seriously injured in a truck wreck, you’ll be dealing with expensive bills on top of your already-mounting financial obligations. It’s a perfect storm of money and bills, but a truck wreck lawyer can help you get the money you need from all the responsible parties. A truck wreck lawyer can also walk you through any further questions you might have about how to handle the aftermath of your accident.
Were You Involved in a Georgia Truck Accident?
At The Law Offices Of Andrew Lynch, we want to solve your individual case with your specific needs in mind. Our well-versed background covers the complexities of commercial trucking accidents. Rest assured that our team has your best interest at the forefront of everything we do. We prepare every case as if it is going to trial and strive to get you the compensation you deserve. If you have experienced property and medical damages at the hands of a commercial trucking company, hire a truck wreck lawyer Georgia trusts today. Justice for your case begins now.
How Important is a Police Report in My Case?
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by another party, Georgia law allows you to pursue damages against that party for the losses your injuries have caused, such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. A truck wreck lawyer in GA can help you with your case.
Your lawyer will investigate the crash, talk to witnesses, and gather evidence that will prove that the other party caused the crash and is, therefore, liable for the losses you have sustained. One of the most important pieces of evidence your lawyer can have is the police report from your accident.
What is a Police Report?
When you are in an accident, you are required to report the crash to the police. In most cases, an officer will arrive at the scene of the accident to investigate. The officer will write his or her report from an unbiased, “just the facts” perspective. The report will include the time and location the crash occurred, what kind of injuries victims suffered, damage to vehicles and/or surrounding property, statements from the drivers’ accounts of what occurred, weather and environmental conditions that may have affected the situation, and witness identification and statements.
Why is This Information Important?
Your Georgia truck wreck lawyer can use any and all information in the police report to prove the truck driver and/or the trucking company is liable for the accident since the officer will also include their professional opinion as to why and how the accident happened. If the report cites the other driver as the liable party, this statement will hinder any attempt by the trucking company’s insurance company to try to blame you for the crash in order to avoid paying your damages.
How Should I File a Police Report From My Accident?
As mentioned above, you should contact 911 at the scene of the accident, even if the truck driver tries to talk you out of it. When the officer arrives, share all the details of what happened. Although you may feel highly emotional from this experience, as well as concern for the injuries you and/or your loved ones may have sustained, it is best to remain as calm as possible at the crash site and when speaking with the officer.
You will be able to obtain a copy of the report from the police department to save for your records and give to your lawyer. If you are unable to obtain the report due to the extent of your injuries, your lawyer will also be able to obtain a copy.
What Are Common Injuries in Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents are more likely to result in severe injuries than accidents involving only passenger vehicles. Commercial trucks are much bigger and heavier than passenger vehicles, so they can do a lot of damage in accidents. Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions and blunt head trauma, are one of the most common injuries sustained in truck accidents. These injuries can result in permanent mental and emotional changes.
Other common truck accident injuries include broken bones, neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, lacerations, burns and amputations.
How Is Fault Determined in a Truck Accident Case?
Eyewitness testimony and an investigation of the accident scene can help determine who was at-fault in a truck accident. For example, if it’s discovered that the truck driver who caused the accident was driving too many consecutive hours, the driver and trucking company may be held liable.
What Is the Deadline for Filing a Truck Accident Claim?
Personal injury claims, including truck accident claims, must adhere to filing deadlines. In Georgia, the statute of limitations to file a truck accident claim is two years from the date of the accident. If you don’t file your claim within that time period, you will no longer be eligible to receive compensation.
What Should I Look for in a Truck Accident Lawyer?
If you plan to pursue a truck accident claim, it’s essential to have a qualified truck accident lawyer on your side. Truck accident cases can be very complex, so a knowledgeable and experienced professional is an important asset to have. First and foremost, you should try to find a personal injury lawyer who has specific experience with truck accident cases. He or she will have knowledge about all the laws and regulations on the trucking industry in your state.
It’s also important to select a lawyer with extensive trial experience. Although most truck accident cases get settled out of court, there is still a chance that your case could go to trial. You want to ensure that your lawyer can successfully present your case in front of a judge and jury.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer?
Like most other personal injury lawyers, truck accident lawyers frequently work on a contingency basis. This means that they take a percentage of their clients’ settlement at the end of the case. You normally don’t have to pay anything upfront.
Georgia Truck Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, large trucks are involved in an average of 5,000 fatal crashes each year in the United States. The most common type of truck accident is a rear-end collision. Truck accidents are more likely to be fatal than car accidents.
The Law Offices Of Andrew Lynch, Georgia Truck Wreck Lawyer
125 Clairemont Avenue, Suite 470 Decatur, GA 30030
Get the Compensation You Deserve
In Georgia, there is no cap on the payout for damages involving pain and suffering in a truck wreck case. Trucking accidents often result in exceptional property damage, extreme injuries, and even loss of life. This means you are entitled to full financial compensation for any injuries and damages incurred at the hands of a commercial trucking company. Oftentimes, the big insurance firms protecting these commercial trucking companies work to minimize the payout for victims involved in a truck wreck. These organizations work to execute well-formulated strategies to ensure the most minimal compensation for those harmed. At The Law Offices Of Andrew Lynch, we are well-versed in these tactics and will protect your rights to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
A trusted truck wreck lawyer in Atlanta, GA like our lawyers at The Law Offices Of Andrew Lynch, can help determine if you are may be eligible for compensation for the following:
- Vehicle Damages
- Medical Expenses (including emergency room bills and procedures)
- Loss of Income
- Disability Claims
- Extenuating Circumstances (including loss of limb and disfigurement)
- Pain and Suffering
- Wrongful Death
Contact Our Law Firm Today
At the Lynch Law Group, we know how frustrating and frightening a truck wreck can be – but we also know that you’ll need all the help you can get to put your life back together. A truck wreck doesn’t need to be a major headache. Contact us today, and see what a qualified Georgia truck wreck lawyer can do for you.
If you have been in a car accident, contact a Georgia truck wreck lawyer from Law Offices of Andrew Lynch. Call our office to schedule a free and confidential case evaluation and find out how our legal team can help ensure your rights are protected and you get the financial compensation you deserve.
