In addition to the severe injuries that commonly result from these accidents, trucks and commercial trucks also present numerous complex legal issues when determining liability in Georgia. That’s why it’s essential to seek legal advice from a skilled truck accident attorney if you are a victim.
The team at Buzzell, Welsh & Hill specializes in assisting individuals who have sustained significant damages in trucking accidents and are seeking to assert their legal right to compensation.
How Are Trucking Accidents Different Than Other Car Crashes?
Trucking accidents in Georgia are different from other car crashes in several ways. These differences can make the process of seeking compensation and determining liability more complex.
Some of the key distinctions include:
- Severity of injuries: Truck accidents often result in more severe injuries or fatalities due to the size and weight of commercial trucks compared to passenger vehicles. Victims may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and face long-term disabilities or even permanent impairments.
- Complexity of liability: Determining liability in trucking accidents can be more complicated than in regular car accidents. Multiple parties could be held responsible, including the truck driver, trucking company, owner of the truck, cargo loader, and truck manufacturer or maintenance provider. Each party’s role in the accident needs to be thoroughly investigated.
- Federal and state regulations: Commercial trucks are subject to both federal and state regulations, such as those enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations cover various aspects, including driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement. Compliance with these regulations can play a significant role in determining liability in a truck accident.
- Higher insurance coverage: Commercial trucks are required to carry higher liability insurance coverage than regular passenger vehicles due to the potential for more severe damages and injuries in truck accidents. This can lead to more substantial settlements or verdicts but also more resistance from insurance companies during the claims process.
- Extensive property damage: Truck accidents often result in greater property damage than typical car accidents, not only to the vehicles involved but also to surrounding infrastructure, roadways, or private property.
- Complex accident reconstruction: The size, weight, and mechanics of commercial trucks make accident reconstruction a more intricate process than in regular car accidents. Expert testimony and specialized analysis may be necessary to determine the cause of the accident and the liable parties.
These differences highlight the importance of seeking legal counsel from an experienced truck accident attorney who understands the complexities of trucking accidents and can help navigate the claims process.
Steps to consider when filing a truck accident claim
It’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of your case. Here are some steps to consider:
- Seek medical attention: Your health should be your top priority. Make sure to get medical help immediately following the accident, even if you don’t feel injured at the time. Some injuries may not be apparent right away.
- Report the accident: Notify the police and have a police report filed. The police report will provide important details and documentation for your claim.
- Gather evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible from the accident scene. This can include photos of the vehicles, the road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. Also, take note of the contact information for any witnesses.
- Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Be cautious when speaking to insurance representatives, as they may try to minimize your claim. It’s often best to consult with an attorney before providing a detailed statement.
- Consult with an attorney: Reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in truck accident claims. They can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim.
- Keep documentation: Maintain organized records of all medical bills, repair estimates, lost wages, and any other expenses related to the accident.
- File the claim: Your attorney will help you file the claim against the responsible party or parties, which may include the truck driver, the trucking company, the truck’s owner, or other potentially liable entities.
- Negotiate a settlement: Your attorney will negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement. If an agreement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit to pursue compensation in court.
Remember, it’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can provide you with guidance specific to your case and Georgia law.
Contact Buzzell, Welsh & Hill Today
Truck accident victims can seek a wide range of damages under Georgia law to cover both their economic and non-economic losses. So if you have been injured in an accident involving a truck, contact Buzzell, Welsh & Hill to schedule a free initial consultation with a our truck accident attorney.
