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Atlanta Truck Accident Attorneys: Seeking Justice For Your Injuries

A truck accident can turn life upside down in an instant. These crashes often leave victims facing devastating injuries and an uphill battle to get the compensation they deserve. At The Ransom Firm, we understand the challenges you face. For four generations, our family of attorneys has fought tirelessly for the rights of injury victims in Atlanta and Fulton County. We are here to guide you through every step of the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been hit by a truck, don’t hesitate to contact us at 404-882-3198. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and answer your questions.

Understanding Truck Accidents In Atlanta

Truck accidents differ greatly from typical car accidents. The size and weight alone of large commercial trucks make the consequences of an accident far more severe. Here are some common ways these accidents occur:

  • Jackknife accidents: A jackknife accident refers to when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, creating a dangerous “V” shape with the cab.
  • Rollover accidents: When a truck tips over on its side, it’s known as a rollover. These are often caused by factors like speeding or overloaded cargo.
  • Underride accidents: An underride accident describes when a car slides underneath a truck’s trailer, often due to a lack of proper rear guards.
  • Head-on collisions: Head-on collisions with large trucks can be catastrophic due to the force of impact.
  • Rear-end collisions: A rear-end collision with a commercial truck can cause serious injuries, especially if the truck is heavily loaded.

These are just a few examples of the types of truck accidents we see. No matter the circumstances, if you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you should seek immediate legal guidance.

What Causes Truck Accidents?

Understanding what causes commercial truck accidents is crucial for building a strong case. The leading factors contributing to big rig accidents in Georgia include:

  • Driver fatigue: Truck drivers face pressure to meet deadlines, leading to exhaustion and impaired judgment.
  • Improper maintenance: Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are safe and well-maintained. Neglect can lead to mechanical failures and accidents.
  • Overloaded trucks: Exceeding weight limits affects a truck’s handling and braking, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • Distracted driving: Like any driver, truckers can be distracted by phones, GPS devices or eating while driving.
  • Violations of trucking regulations: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict regulations for the trucking industry and violating these rules can have serious consequences.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, a skilled truck accident lawyer can identify the cause and any potential negligence.

Navigating Georgia Trucking Laws And Regulations

Georgia has specific laws governing truck drivers and trucking companies. These laws and federal FMCSA regulations are designed to improve safety and hold negligent parties accountable. Trucking standards cover areas such as:

  • Driver licensing and training: Ensures drivers possess the necessary skills and qualifications to operate large commercial vehicles.
  • Drug and alcohol testing: Mandates testing to prevent impaired driving among truck drivers.
  • Hours of service: Regulations designed to combat driver fatigue by limiting how long truckers can drive without rest.
  • Vehicle maintenance and inspections: Requires regular inspections and maintenance to keep trucks in safe operating condition.

Our experienced attorneys have a thorough understanding of state and federal regulations and can determine if any violations contributed to your accident.

Who Is At Fault In A Truck Accident?

Determining who is liable in a truck accident is rarely straightforward. Unlike car accidents that often involve two individual drivers, multiple parties can be responsible in a truck accident case. These parties might include:

  • The truck driver: If a driver’s negligence caused the accident, such as by speeding, driving distracted or driving under the influence, they could be held liable.
  • The trucking company: Employers are generally responsible for their employees’ actions. The trucking company could share liability if a truck driver causes an accident while on duty.
  • Manufacturers: Defective parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, can contribute to accidents. In these cases, the manufacturer might be held liable.
  • Third-party maintenance providers: A mechanic or maintenance company could be held responsible if improper maintenance or repairs contributed to the accident.

Identifying all responsible parties is key to maximizing your chances of receiving full compensation after a crash.

Types Of Truck Accident Compensation

After a truck accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:

  • Medical expenses: Covers past, current and future medical costs related to your injuries.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to injuries and inability to work.
  • Pain and suffering: Damages awarded for physical pain, emotional stress and mental anguish caused by the collision and your injuries.
  • Property damage: Reimbursement for repairing or replacing your vehicle and other damaged property.

Determining the full extent of your damages can be difficult, and insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A skilled truck accident attorney can advocate for your best interests.

What To Do After A Truck Accident In Georgia

Knowing what to do immediately after a truck accident can protect your health and rights. Here are the key steps to take:

  • Get medical attention: Your health is the top priority. See a doctor right away, even if you don’t feel seriously injured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
  • Contact the police: Report the accident to law enforcement and ensure you receive a copy of the official accident report. This document will be crucial for a future truck accident injury claim and legal proceedings.
  • Document the scene: When possible, take pictures and videos of the scene, vehicle damage and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses if they are present.
  • Contact an attorney: Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters until you consult a lawyer. An experienced personal injury attorney can protect your rights and handle communication with insurance companies.

Remember, you don’t have to face this alone. We are here to help you every step of the way.

Why Choose The Ransom Firm?

Navigating the aftermath of a large truck accident case can be overwhelming. At The Ransom Firm, our dedicated team of attorneys is here to provide the personalized support and guidance you need. As a family-run firm, we prioritize building strong relationships with our clients. We take the time to listen and understand your concerns and develop a custom legal strategy tailored to your specific situation.

If you have been hurt in a truck accident, don’t face this challenging time alone. Contact our firm today for a free consultation at 404-882-3198. We’re here to help you get back on your feet and seek the justice you deserve.