Georgia Truck Accident Attorneys

Georgia Truck Accident Attorneys

Being in an accident involving a semi-truck can be very serious. Long-lasting injuries or death can occur as a result of having such a large vehicle crash into yours. Passenger cars are at a huge disadvantage if they are hit by an 18-wheeler. If you have been in a tractor-trailer accident, there is a lot at stake, and an experienced Georgia personal injury attorney can make sure your accident is resolved to the fullest extent under the law.

Georgia’s Truck Laws

Because of the threat trucks pose on the road, Georgia has specific regulations that apply to trucks. If trucks drive in and out of state, federal regulations will apply. These regulations are made by the United States Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

For trucks that only drive in-state, Georgia law applies. While there are some distinctions, generally these regulations require truck drivers and truck fleets to:

• Properly maintain the trucks
• Take training and re-training classes
• Restrict the number of hours a driver can be on the road
• Have alcohol and drug policies in place
• Limit the amount of cargo that can be transported

If the driver or truck company that caused your accident is found to have violated these regulations, it can help prove your case to a judge or jury.

Types and Causes of Truck Accidents

Some truck accidents are caused by the same things that cause vehicle accidents:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Impaired driving

Other accidents are caused by circumstances more unique to 18-wheelers:

• Improperly heavy cargo loads
• Sleepy drivers
• Poorly maintained semi-trucks

Personal injury attorneys see a variety of common truck accidents, including:

• Rollover accidents happen when a truck turns too quickly, hitting cars as it falls and creating a hazard on roadways that other cars may hit.
• Rear-ending accidents occur when a truck is moving too fast and does not have time to stop.
• Jackknife accidents are caused when the truck’s drive axle brakes lock up, which makes the trailer skid.

What to Do in the Event of an Accident

You should stay at the scene and call the police. You should also exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers, but do not discuss who was at fault. Start creating a record of your accident by taking photos and videos of the scene. Contact your insurance company to report the accident and also contact a lawyer to see that your interests are protected.

When to Get a Lawyer After Your Truck Accident

Truck accidents can be catastrophic. There can also be numerous parties at fault. For example, insurers, drivers, trucking companies, truck part manufacturers can all be found to be “on the hook” for your injuries. Because of the high stakes and the number of people and companies that can be involved, hiring an attorney as soon as you can is advisable.

Hiring an attorney will mean that you will get the money damages set forth by Georgia law. Most people undervalue the amount they think they are owed. It is critical that you be compensated for all damages that you have experienced thus far and that you will experience for the rest of your life. Call a featured lawyer on this website to get a free consultation from one of our experienced Georgia truck accident attorneys.