Georgia Truck Accident Lawyer
Georgia Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents are especially dangerous to the occupants of passenger vehicles. Because tractor-trailers are so much larger and heavier than these vehicles, wrecks between the two often result in devastating injuries. Georgia law allows victims of accidents to file a claim or lawsuit to recover compensation for injuries. If you suffered injuries in an accident, a Georgia truck accident lawyer can help.
Georgia Truck Accident Attorney With Proven Track Record of Success
While the laws that govern truck accident cases in Georgia are similar to those for other auto accidents, truck accident cases are more complex. This is, in part, because there are a number of potentially liable parties in every truck crash.
Most people assume the truck driver is at-fault if the crash occurs because of speeding, drowsiness, or even drunk driving, but the concept of vicarious liability means that he may not be the sole liable party. Under Georgia law, employers are responsible for anything their employees do while on the clock. In addition to the driver and trucking company, other liable parties may include:
- Maintenance companies
- Suppliers or those who loaded the truck
- Truck manufacturers
- Parts manufacturers
Evidence is necessary to prove negligence and liability. In addition to photos, eyewitness accounts, and police reports, other types of truck accident evidence include:
- Driver’s hours of service logs
- Personnel files
- Data from the truck’s computer
- Drug and alcohol testing results
If you are able to prove liability, you are eligible to receive compensation for any damages you suffered, which may include:
- Medical costs
- Rehabilitation
- Nursing and other home health care
- Lost past wages and lost future income
- Pain and suffering
- Possible punitive damages
Contact a Georgia Truck Accident Lawyer
Georgia gives crash victims two years to file a lawsuit against the liable parties, but it is paramount that you call a Georgia truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after a collision that caused injuries.
This is because much of the evidence needed to prove a truck accident claim is in the hands of the trucking company, which is allowed to destroy evidence after a certain period of time. Your Georgia trucking accident lawyer can preserve this evidence by sending a letter of spoliation.
Your Georgia truck accident attorney can also help you file a claim with the trucking company’s insurer, as well as with any other liable parties. An investigation will follow, and your legal team will walk you through this process.
Once the insurer has opened an investigation, an adjuster will likely call you requesting a recorded statement. Do not give a recorded statement without speaking with your Georgia truck accident lawyer. The adjuster may attempt to use anything you say against you which may reduce your claim or bar you from receiving compensation entirely.
Once the insurer has finished the investigation, it will offer you a settlement or deny your claim. This first offer is often much too low, but your lawyer can negotiate. If the insurer refuses to offer you a fair settlement, you can take your case to a Georgia court.
Speak with an Experienced Georgia Truck Accident Attorney
If you were the victim of a trucker’s negligence, you are eligible to recoup money to cover your damages. Get in touch with a Georgia truck accident attorney today to set up a consultation and discuss your case in greater detail.