18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer Atlanta

What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?

Trucking accidents can be very frightening for any driver operating a vehicle. Whether traveling to work, a concert, or an educational event, it is often difficult to avoid large trucks on the highway. Trucks have massive blind spots, which make accidents even more likely, so it is best to give them a wide berth if possible.

The most significant, but not the sole, cause of trucking accidents falls on the truck drivers themselves. Truckers are often subject to tight deadlines and long hours, meaning they regularly drive on little sleep and may even use stimulants to stay awake. Pressure from their employers can also make them more careless or reckless than is safe.

Understanding the operations within the trucking industry can reveal how systemic factors contribute to these unsafe conditions. Factors such as unrealistic delivery schedules, lack of adequate rest breaks, and financial incentives for early deliveries often force drivers to compromise safety standards. Employers may pressure drivers to cut corners, exacerbating the risk of accidents.

Trucking Accidents Caused by Truckers Can Occur for Many Reasons Including:

Injured in a truck accident? Call (404) 995-1963 or contact us online for a free consultation with our dedicated Atlanta attorneys.

Identifying Other Factors in Trucking Accidents

Truck accidents may be caused by more than just the driver. Other common causes of truck accidents include:

• Poorly loaded cargo that shifts or spills while in transit
• Manufacturer defects that cause the truck to malfunction
• Tire blowouts, engine failure, and other results of poor truck maintenance
• Badly designed, constructed, or maintained roads
• Inadequate training provided to the truck driver

The complexity of the trucking infrastructure means responsibility can extend to several parties, including the firms responsible for road conditions and the companies maintaining the vehicles. Determining liability often involves assessing the involvement of each party and how their negligence contributed to the accident. This requires technical expertise and detailed evidence collection.

Establishing Liability in Truck Accident Claims

One of the most challenging aspects of a truck accident claim is determining liability. For instance, if a trucker crashes into a vehicle because they were poorly trained and overworked, does liability fall on the driver, their employer, or both?

Understanding the nuances of liability is critical because multiple parties can be financially responsible. An accident's complexity arises when identifying contributing factors, such as inadequate driver training, logistical oversights, or maintenance failings. A thorough investigation identifies these components, requiring legal proficiency to navigate the investigations and negotiations involved.

Trucking Claims May Have Multiple Responsible Parties, Including but Not Limited to:

This is another instance in which having an attorney on your side can be very advantageous. Experienced truck accident lawyers, such as those at The Fowler Firm, understand how to thoroughly investigate a crash scene and conduct interviews and research to determine how your accident was caused and who is legally responsible.

Why Choose The Fowler Firm for Your Truck Accident Claim?

When navigating the aftermath of a truck accident, having a dedicated legal team by your side can make all the difference. At The Fowler Firm, we understand the complexities involved in truck accident claims and are committed to providing personalized support tailored to your unique situation. Our experienced attorneys leverage their extensive knowledge of Georgia’s laws and regulations to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Trusting a law firm to handle your claim means entrusting them with your future well-being and recovery. Our firm is known for its compassionate and dedicated approach, placing clients at the forefront of every decision. By choosing The Fowler Firm, you are selecting a team that is not only proficient in legal processes but also genuinely invested in achieving justice and positive outcomes for our clients.

FAQs About Truck Accidents in Atlanta

What Steps Should I Take After a Truck Accident in Atlanta?

Finding yourself involved in a truck accident can be overwhelming, but taking certain steps immediately afterward can significantly impact your claim's success. First, ensure your safety and the safety of others. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if injuries aren’t apparent, a medical evaluation is crucial, as some conditions may not manifest until later. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be invaluable in your claim.

Next, exchange information with the truck driver and any witnesses, gathering names, addresses, and contact details. Do not discuss the accident or concede fault at the scene. When approached by insurance adjusters, provide only factual, necessary details, avoiding recorded statements without an attorney present. Finally, consult with a legal professional who can guide you through the process of seeking fair compensation.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Georgia?

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim following a truck accident is generally two years from the date of the incident. This timeline is critical, as failing to file within this window may prevent you from seeking compensation. There are exceptions, but they are limited and often narrowly applied.

Starting a claim early not only ensures compliance with legal deadlines but also helps preserve valuable evidence while it is still fresh. Witness availability and memory accuracy are factors that can influence the outcome, so timely action increases the likelihood of a favorable resolution. At The Fowler Firm, we encourage immediate consultation following an accident. Our team is ready to assist in gathering evidence, securing necessary documentation, and filing your claim promptly to uphold your rights and recover the damages you are entitled to.

What Compensation Is Available for Truck Accident Victims?

Truck accident victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation, which can cover a range of financial and emotional hardships caused by the incident. Economic damages are designed to compensate for tangible expenses such as medical bills, rehabilitation costs, property damage, and lost wages due to time off work.

In addition to economic damages, non-economic damages may be awarded to address the more subjective impacts of an accident, like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases where the conduct of the trucking company or driver was particularly reckless, punitive damages might be considered. These are aimed at punishing wrongful behavior and deterring future negligence. Our attorneys are experienced in valuing such claims, ensuring that the compensation demand captures every aspect of your loss.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Claim?

Liability in truck accident claims can be complex and may involve multiple parties beyond just the driver. This can include the trucking company that employs the driver, as they may have enforced unsafe working conditions or failed to maintain their fleet properly. Cargo loading companies can be liable if improperly loaded goods contributed to the accident.

Additionally, manufacturers of truck parts may be held accountable if a mechanical failure due to a part defect caused the collision. Legal liability might also extend to maintenance providers if inadequate servicing led to the truck's malfunction. Identifying responsible parties typically involves extensive investigation and legal analysis, something our team at The Fowler Firm undertakes with meticulous care to provide our clients with a solid legal strategy.

How Does Weather Affect Truck Accidents in Georgia?

Weather conditions can significantly impact the likelihood and severity of truck accidents in Georgia. Heavy rain, common in the state, can lead to slippery roads, decreased visibility, and increased stopping distances, making it challenging for large trucks to maneuver safely. Thick fog, often seen in the Georgian climate, can obscure the road ahead, making it difficult to anticipate traffic conditions and respond swiftly.

Trucking companies are expected to train their drivers to handle adverse weather conditions appropriately. Nonetheless, a lack of proper training or failure to adhere to safety protocols can result in devastating accidents. In such cases, liability may not solely lie with the individual driver but also with their employer. At The Fowler Firm, we evaluate all factors, including weather, when assessing a truck accident claim, ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable.

If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, contact us today to speak with  our Atlanta truck accident lawyers to discuss your case and next steps.