Trucking Accidents in Georgia
Securing fair and full compensation for victims of tractor-trailer accidents
If you’re a licensed driver regularly on the road in Georgia, it’s important to acknowledge the risks that come with it. Recent statistics show Georgia is ranked fourth in the country for fatal car accidents reported – with about 1700 annually. Of those, roughly 180-230 are from large truck accidents, accounting for nearly 13% of total motor vehicle crash fatalities in the state. From a nationwide perspective, the number of large trucks involved in fatal crashes has increased by 49% in the last ten years. In addition to fatalities, many people experience catastrophic injuries because of these serious accidents.
What do these statistics mean for you as a driver or passenger in a standard vehicle? If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Georgia – whether from a “big rig” truck, tractor-trailer, or semi-truck – Bell Law Firm can help. Catastrophic injury cases can be complex, so having experienced counsel on your side is critical.
What’s the difference between a “big rig” truck, tractor-trailer, and semi-truck?
The terms “big rig” truck, tractor-trailer, and semi-truck are often used interchangeably to refer to a specific type of large commercial truck used for hauling freight over long distances. While there may be regional variations in the terminology, generally, these terms are used to describe the same type of vehicle.
Bell Law Firm is one of Georgia’s leading law firms representing people devastated by trucking accidents. Call us today at 404-249-6768 or email help@belllawfirm.com for a free consultation.
What makes semi-truck accidents so serious?
Semi-truck accidents tend to be more serious than regular car accidents due to several factors:
Size and Weight: Semi-trucks are significantly larger and heavier than regular passenger vehicles. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh more than 80,000 pounds. The sheer size and weight disparity between a semi-truck and a car can result in catastrophic damage and injury during collisions.
Momentum and Stopping Distance: Due to their weight, semi-trucks require much longer distances than cars to come to a complete stop. This means when a semi-truck driver needs to brake suddenly, they may be unable to stop in time, leading to rear-end collisions or collisions with other vehicles.
Limited Maneuverability: Semi-trucks have limited maneuverability compared to passenger cars. They have a larger turning radius, require more space to change lanes, and take longer to accelerate or decelerate. This can increase the likelihood of accidents, especially when a truck driver needs to make sudden changes or encounters unexpected obstacles on the road.
What are some common causes of trucking accidents?
While you can’t always predict how other drivers will behave, you can help protect yourself by understanding some of the most common causes of accidents and staying vigilant on the road. Some of the most reported causes of large trucking accidents each year include:
- Distracted driving
- Driver fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel
- Impaired driving or driving under the influence
- Equipment failure or mechanical malfunction
- Adverse weather or poor road conditions
- Tailgating and improper following distance
- Disobeying traffic laws
Can I sue for a truck accident?
All drivers must have auto insurance, which covers damages caused by a covered driver. However, if insurance cannot repay a victim’s losses, they have the right to file a personal injury claim against the driver who caused their accident. If you’re unsure whether you have the grounds to sue for a recent trucking accident, you should speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
Who is liable for a semi-truck accident?
Liability in a trucking accident depends on the details and circumstances of the accident. The driver at fault should be responsible for costs associated with the accident, but it can sometimes be unclear who is responsible for the collision. The smaller vehicle driver or the truck driver could be to blame, or they could both have contributed to the events leading up to the accident.
Georgia is a modified comparative negligence state. This means it accounts for situations of shared responsibility for accidents, and the party that’s more than 50% at fault is expected to pay damages to the other party. These damages are reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the injured party. For example, if you were 20 percent responsible and the truck driver was 80 percent responsible, your award would be diminished by 20%.
What should I do after a serious trucking accident in Georgia?
After a serious trucking accident, the most important thing is to ensure your safety. Seek any necessary medical attention as soon as possible – your health and safety should be the top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured initially, getting a thorough medical evaluation is crucial, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Next, you’ll likely report the accident to the local police or Georgia State Patrol. They will document the accident, gather necessary information, and create an official accident report. Be sure to obtain a copy of the report for your records. If possible, collect information on your own at the scene, including the names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties involved in the accident. Also, gather any details of witnesses present and note the location, date, and time of the accident.
Only if it is safe to do so, take videos or photos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, damage sustained, road conditions, and any relevant details.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and initiate the claims process. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the accident but avoid discussing fault or accepting any settlement offers without consulting legal counsel.
Lastly, consult with an attorney. It’s highly recommended to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney specializing in serious trucking accidents in Georgia, like Bell Law Firm. We can evaluate the circumstances of the accident, help protect your rights, and guide you through the legal process.
What is the average settlement for semi-truck or tractor-trailer accidents?
Tractor-trailer accident settlement amounts can vary significantly based on many factors, including the severity of the injuries, the extent of property damage, the impact on the victim’s life, and the specific circumstances of the accident. Each accident is unique, and settlement amounts are influenced by individual factors and negotiations. That’s why it’s essential to consult with an experienced attorney who can help guide you through the process. An attorney can help gather evidence, calculate damages, negotiate with insurance companies, and navigate Georgia’s specific legal landscape.
How to start a lawsuit for a tractor-trailer accident
If you or a loved one has been a victim in a large trucking accident, you may want to file a lawsuit. Here’s how to start your catastrophic injury case.
Find a qualified attorney with a history of success in catastrophic injury cases and experience taking cases all the way to trial.
Obtain and review medical records. Once the attorneys have evaluated your case, they should help you obtain certified medical records from the healthcare organization where you were treated for your injuries. Qualified attorneys like Bell Law Firm will then review the medical records closely in consultation with medical experts.
File the complaint. A complaint is a document that launches the lawsuit. It should tell your story clearly and thoroughly based on the medical records and other evidence, like the investigation completed by law enforcement at the collision site.
How to choose the best truck accident lawyer
If you or a loved one has sustained a significant injury from a trucking accident, we know how overwhelming it can be to find the right attorney for your case. The lawyer you work with is an important decision that will impact the success of your case, ongoing financial stability, and rehabilitation options. Here are a few places to start in your decision-making process.
Bell Law Firm is ready to help you receive full and fair compensation. If you believe you have a trucking accident case, do not delay in contacting Bell Law Firm for a free consultation. Call us today at 404-249-6768 or email help@belllawfirm.com for a free consultation.
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