Welcome to Pound Law. I’m Attorney John Foy, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to assist you during this challenging period. Have you experienced a severe truck collision? Our team of attorneys specializes in advocating for individuals harmed by semi and large trucks daily. Reach out to us now for a complimentary assessment of your potential compensation. Allow us to secure the highest possible payout for you.
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you possess legal avenues to seek damages. For over two decades, our firm has supported injury victims in the Atlanta area, amassing over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements. Our Atlanta-based truck accident attorneys are dedicated to maximizing your compensation.
Navigating negotiations with insurance companies can be daunting, but we’re adept at it. Rest assured, we’re committed to securing the best possible outcome for you. Furthermore, worry not about attorney fees—we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case. Reach out today to arrange a complimentary consultation.
Truck Accidents Are Devastating
Recent data on fatalities involving large trucks in 2020 shows a grim reality: 4,014 individuals lost their lives in such accidents. What’s even more concerning is that 68% of these fatalities were occupants of smaller vehicles like cars. Additionally, 16% of the victims were motorcyclists, bicyclists, or pedestrians.
Considering the vast size and weight difference between trucks and passenger vehicles, the risk of severe injury or worse is significantly higher for those in the latter. To put it in perspective, the average weight of an empty semi-truck trailer is about 35,000 lbs, whereas a fully loaded one can reach 80,000 lbs. In contrast, the average weight of a passenger vehicle, as per the EPA, is just over 4,000 lbs.
Given this substantial variance, truck drivers bear a significant responsibility to exercise utmost caution on the roads. In the unfortunate event of a collision, seeking legal assistance from an attorney experienced in handling truck accident cases can be crucial.
Why do I Need a Truck Accident Lawyer in Atlanta?
Trucking accidents can cause severe injuries and significant damages. But, you can make the negligent party pay for their actions and secure financial compensation. To achieve this, it’s essential to enlist legal help.
Here’s why hiring an Atlanta truck accident lawyer is crucial—though we can’t cover all reasons, here are some key ones.
Gathering Evidence for Your Claim
Filing a claim after a truck accident doesn’t guarantee fair compensation. You’ll need to negotiate or potentially head to court. Winning your case requires compelling evidence. Our Atlanta car accident attorneys will collect vital evidence from your truck collision, including police reports, photos, medical records, and witness statements. We’ll build a solid case to thwart any denial from the insurance company.
Calculating Your Damages Accurately
Your truck accident settlement value hinges on the severity of your injuries and the extent of damages incurred. This encompasses evaluating medical expenses and other incident-related costs.
Our adept personal injury attorneys will meticulously calculate all damages on your behalf, ensuring you receive the utmost compensation possible. No detail will be overlooked in your final settlement.
With a history of successful case outcomes, our legal team has secured significant compensations for clients:
- $6.6 million for a client hit by a tractor-trailer
- $4.9 million for a client injured in a rear-end collision with an 18-wheeler
- $1.5 million for a client sideswiped by a truck
Fighting Against the Insurance Company
Our attorneys are adept at navigating both courtroom battles and negotiations with insurance agents. Insurance companies prioritize their bottom line and often seek to avoid fair compensation for damages.
Hiring a truck accident lawyer increases the likelihood of a fair settlement through negotiation, as insurance adjusters prefer to avoid costly legal proceedings. This underscores the importance of legal representation, granting you leverage to secure appropriate compensation for your accident.
What Exactly Should I Tell My Atlanta Truck Accident Attorney?
Your seasoned truck accident lawyer aims to grasp every nuance of your situation. The initial consultation marks the beginning of your journey with your new attorney. It’s an opportunity to delve into the specifics of your case.
Relax and open up. Share your narrative without reservation. Remember, confidentiality shields your discussions with your legal representative.
Transparency is crucial as it equips your attorney to advance your negligence claim effectively. Omitting details could jeopardize your entire settlement if the opposing party raises them later.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Large commercial vehicle collisions stem from various causes, primarily attributed to driver errors alongside other negligent behaviors. These include:
- Driver fatigue
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Distracted driving
- Improper loading
Mechanical failures
In 2020, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) documented 402 alcohol-related driving fatalities in Georgia, alongside 380 speeding-related fatalities statewide.
Moreover, the fatigue and prolonged hours endured by commercial truck drivers elevate the risk of accidents. Extended periods behind the wheel can induce driver fatigue or lead to engagement in hazardous activities.
Remaining vigilant when driving near heavy trucks is crucial for promptly reacting to potential emergencies.
The Most Dangerous Intersections in Atlanta
Intersections pose a significant risk for car accidents due to the convergence of two or more roads, leading to potential confusion among drivers. Activities such as turning left or right carry a heightened risk of collision. Statistics suggest that approximately 40% of all crashes in the United States occur at intersections.
When navigating the streets of Atlanta, it’s crucial for drivers to exercise extra caution, especially at the following intersections:
- Covington Highway and Lithonia Road
- Briarcliff Road and North Druid Hills Road
- Butner Road and Camp Creek Parkway
- Moreland Avenue and Constitution Road
- State Road-139 and Bolton Road
Atlanta is notorious for its severe traffic congestion and is often cited as one of the most perilous cities in the country for drivers.
Who Can I Hold Responsible for a Truck Accident in Atlanta?
In Atlanta, pound law dictates that multiple parties could be deemed at fault for a truck accident. Yet, typically, there will be at least one party held responsible for the incident.
The Truck Driver
In pound law, the primary liable party typically falls on the truck driver. Since they’re the ones in control of the truck, they bear the initial responsibility for preventing accidents. If their actions on the road are reckless or negligent, you have grounds to file a claim against them.
The Trucking Company
Trucking firms are obligated to safeguard the public by employing skilled drivers and ensuring proper truck maintenance. Failure to meet these standards poses a significant risk to public safety. If there’s evidence indicating insufficient hiring criteria or inadequate maintenance, you can pursue liability claims in the event of an accident.ls on the truck driver. Since they’re the ones in control of the truck, they bear the initial responsibility for preventing accidents. If their actions on the road are reckless or negligent, you have grounds to file a claim against them.
The Truck Manufacturer
Trucking firms are obligated to safeguard the public by employing skilled drivers and ensuring proper truck maintenance. Failure to meet these standards poses a significant risk to public safety. If there’s evidence indicating insufficient hiring criteria or inadequate maintenance, you can pursue liability claims in the event of an accident.
How to Get Compensated for Your Truck Accident Damages
When you’ve been involved in an accident with a large commercial vehicle, you may be entitled to financial compensation for various damages, including:
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Medical expenses
- Property damages
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement or disability
Although money can’t erase all the effects of such an event, it can provide the financial support necessary for your recovery and moving forward. We’re committed to ensuring that the responsible party or their insurance company doesn’t shortchange you with a minimal settlement offer.
The Statute of Limitations for Truck Accidents in Georgia
Under Pound Law, individuals in Atlanta have a two-year window, as outlined in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §9-3-33, to initiate their personal injury claims. Yet, it’s crucial to note that this timeframe is approximate. Certain circumstances may necessitate a much shorter period.
Therefore, prompt action is imperative. Delaying until the eleventh hour to commence preparations is unwise. Crafting a robust case demands ample time and compelling evidence. Procrastination may result in forfeiting a substantial portion of your settlement.
State and Federal Regulations for the Trucking Industry
The trucking sector faces stringent regulations both at state and federal tiers, aimed at guaranteeing safety and adherence to diverse standards. Adhering to these regulations is crucial for ensuring the secure functioning of commercial vehicles and averting road accidents.
Non-compliance with state or federal regulations may lead to fines, penalties, and potentially, the suspension or withdrawal of a trucking company’s operational license. Key regulations pertinent to your situation encompass:
Hours of Service
The pound law ensures that truck drivers in the United States adhere to regulations governing their driving hours, enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules restrict the time commercial big rig operators spend driving and mandate breaks between shifts to combat fatigue, reducing the likelihood of accidents. To uphold these standards, the FMCSA employs tools such as electronic logging devices (ELDs), compliance reviews, and roadside inspections.
Substance Abuse Testing
Federal regulations from the FMCSA and DOT mandate that individuals holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and their employers adhere to alcohol and drug testing protocols.
Commercial drivers are obligated to undergo drug testing before employment and following any accidents. Additionally, if there are suspicions of substance abuse by an employee, the employer is required to conduct testing on the driver.
Weight Requirements
Georgia’s truck weight regulations hinge on factors like axle count and travel distance. Moreover, specific roads and bridges in the state have weight limits, with permits necessary for loads surpassing these constraints.
Truck Accident Lawsuit FAQs
Following a truck collision, it’s common to feel disoriented and flooded with emotions. Pound Law, comprised of seasoned personal injury attorneys in Atlanta, is dedicated to assisting you in managing the legal aftermath. We address common queries posed by truck accident victims, aiming to provide clarity on the legal aspects surrounding your incident.
Can I Get a Truck’s Black Box Data After an Accident?
Retrieving data from a truck’s black box post-crash might pose challenges, but it’s not insurmountable. Acting promptly is key, given that some black boxes auto-erase data within 30 days. To safeguard evidence, prompt legal assistance is essential.
Utilizing a compatible smartphone app can facilitate accessing vehicle data. Your black box typically comes with a retrieval toolkit and instructions for data access.
Accessing black box data from another vehicle can be done through various means:
- Securing the truck owner’s permission.
- Accessing data for safety reasons.
- Obtaining a court order for data retrieval.
- Servicing, diagnosing, or repairing the black box.
What If the Trucker doesn’t Have Adequate Insurance?
Discovering that the responsible truck driver lacks insurance can be disheartening, but there are still avenues for financial recourse available to you. An Atlanta-based truck accident lawyer can assess your situation and guide you towards the most viable route to obtain compensation.
In the event of an uninsured or underinsured truck driver, you might consider:
- Utilizing uninsured motorist coverage
- Pursuing a claim against the negligent driver
- Initiating a claim against another accountable party
Should You Admit If You Were Partially Liable in a Truck Accident?
Acknowledging any potential role in the collision can be a significant misstep following a truck accident. Even a seemingly innocuous remark could be misconstrued as an admission of fault.
Truck accident situations often entail various entities, including multiple parties and insurance companies, along with intricate legal processes. Without appropriate legal counsel, errors are more likely to occur. Relying on the expertise of an Atlanta truck accident attorney can prevent missteps that may jeopardize the favorable outcome of your case.
How Long does It Take to Settle a Truck Accident Claim?
For those who’ve endured truck accidents, the timeline of a claim can be a pressing concern. Yet, the duration hinges on case specifics. Factors such as the investigation and completion of medical treatment impact legal proceedings.
Pound Law endeavors to hasten financial recovery while prioritizing your welfare. A swift settlement isn’t always optimal. Crafting a robust case and securing equitable compensation may necessitate patience.
Will I Have to Go to Court After a Truck Wreck?
In most truck accident scenarios, legal proceedings are uncommon. Your attorney will strive to settle matters through negotiation with the insurance provider or responsible party to secure equitable compensation. Yet, if these efforts prove fruitless, litigation might ensue. Your legal representative remains committed to advocating for your interests, pursuing the highest possible restitution.
What Amount Should You Settle for After a Truck Wreck?
For pound law, the answer isn’t straightforward. A truck accident can result in severe injuries and property damage, so it’s crucial that the settlement accounts for all losses. A legal expert will assess your expenses and gauge the fairness of any settlement offer. Key factors affecting your truck accident settlement include fault in the crash, the number of insurance companies involved, the extent of damages, and legal representation.
Is It Worth It to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer?
Truck accident cases often prove more intricate compared to typical personal injury claims, underscoring the importance of legal representation. A skilled attorney will adeptly guide you through the convoluted legal procedures, ensuring your rights remain safeguarded.
Moreover, with professional advocacy, the likelihood of securing a more substantial compensation increases significantly—potentially up to 30-40% more. Through our experience, we’ve observed that insurance firms tend to be more inclined to negotiate higher settlements when the injured party is represented by legal counsel.
Talk to Our Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers Today
Looking for legal support after a truck accident? Look no further than Pound Law. Our team specializes in representing injury victims in semi-truck crashes, rollovers, and other truck-related incidents. Trust our seasoned truck accident lawyers to advocate for your rights and provide expert guidance throughout your case.
If you’ve been injured in a trucking-related incident, reach out to Pound Law’s Atlanta truck accident lawyers today. Schedule an appointment by filling out our online contact form. We’re here 24/7 to assist you.