Large commercial trucks are a common sight on Georgia highways, from Interstate 285 in Atlanta to Interstate 16, which heads toward Savannah. These vehicles are essential to our economy, but when they’re operated without proper care, they pose a serious risk to every driver on the road. Fatal truck accidents are among the most devastating events a family can face, and in many cases, the tragedy could have been avoided. Understanding when negligence turns into a wrongful death claim is critical for families seeking justice after a loss.
The Reality of Truck-Related Fatalities in Georgia
Commercial truck crashes are more likely than passenger vehicle collisions to cause severe or fatal injuries. Tractor-trailers, cement trucks, dump trucks, and other large vehicles carry significant weight and require more time to stop or maneuver. When these trucks are involved in highway collisions, the results are often catastrophic, especially for occupants of smaller vehicles.
According to data from the Georgia Department of Transportation, hundreds of people die each year in large truck crashes throughout the state. Many of these deaths occur on major interstates and highways, where speeds are high and traffic congestion adds to the risk.
These collisions often involve:
- Rear-end impacts due to excessive speed or following too closely.
- Lane change collisions from blind spots or distracted driving.
- Rollover or jackknife events caused by improper loading or equipment failure.
- Loss of control due to fatigue, impaired driving, or weather-related issues.
When these fatal outcomes stem from preventable behavior, the trucking company or driver may be held legally responsible through a wrongful death claim.
Identifying Negligence in a Fatal Truck Collision
Not every fatal truck crash involves wrongdoing, but many do. Wrongful death claims hinge on whether negligence contributed to the death. Negligence means someone failed to act with the level of care that a reasonable person, or in this case, a professional driver or trucking company, should have exercised.
Examples of negligence in truck-related deaths may include:
- Violations of federal hours-of-service rules, leading to fatigued driving.
- Speeding or reckless driving in heavy traffic or poor weather.
- Failure to perform regular maintenance on brakes, tires, or lights.
- Hiring unqualified or undertrained drivers.
- Failure to properly secure cargo or balance loads.
Trucking companies can also be liable when they pressure drivers to meet unrealistic delivery deadlines, ignore maintenance issues, or overlook safety violations.
Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Truck Crash
Families who lose a loved one in a truck crash have legal rights in Georgia. A wrongful death claim can help hold the negligent party accountable and provide financial support for those left behind.
These claims can seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses before death.
- Funeral and burial costs.
- Lost income or support the victim would have provided.
- Emotional pain and suffering endured by the family.
- Loss of companionship, care, and guidance.
At Wrongful Death Krause Law Firm, we work with investigators, accident reconstruction experts, and medical professionals to uncover the whole truth behind fatal truck crashes. We understand that no amount of money can replace a loved one, but we also believe that negligent parties must be held accountable for their actions.
Your Trusted Legal Partner in the Aftermath of Tragedy
Our legal team is dedicated solely to wrongful death claims in Georgia. We have the experience, focus, and resources to take on large trucking companies and insurers. If your family is dealing with the loss of a loved one in a fatal truck crash, let us help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
We begin every case with a free consultation and never charge a fee unless we recover compensation for your family.
Contact our Atlanta wrongful death attorney today to take the first step toward holding the responsible party accountable.