Truck Accident Lawyer Decatur, GA
A truck accident lawyer in Decatur, GA from The Krause Law Firm knows that car accidents can range in severity from minor fender benders to severe events, but accidents involving large trucks almost always result in catastrophic events, and because of this, victims need to prioritize the support that a lawyer can provide. Truck accidents are often catastrophic and affect multiple victims in a single collision due to their weight and size. The chances of a victim sustaining moderate to severe injuries are much higher compared to a car accident. If a person’s negligent actions led to your injury after being involved in a truck accident, you may be eligible to file a claim.
Causes of Truck Accidents
A truck accident can happen suddenly without warning, leaving nearby drivers little time to react. Because of their large size and weight, truck accidents are often catastrophic, leaving people seriously injured. Accidents involving commercial trucks are usually devastating because they carry large amounts of cargo of all types, such as flammable materials. If they are not routinely inspected and undergo maintenance frequently, the risk of an accident increases and people may suffer serious injuries that can affect them for a long time. Here are some of the most common causes of truck accidents that a lawyer often deals with:
- Speeding
- Aggressive driving
- Inattention
- Impaired driving
- Brake failure
- Tire puncture
- Sleepiness or fatigue
- Improperly secured cargo
No matter what happened to cause a truck accident, your lawyer will be able to understand whether or not there is a valid argument for getting compensated for being injured in a truck accident by another driver who was negligent. Your lawyer will also know whether the truck driver needs to be held accountable, or if the company who manufactured the truck played a role in the accident or if the truck company itself could be held liable.
About Truck Driver Fatigue
When truckers are fatigued, they are more likely to make errors when driving and cause an accident. They may fall asleep behind the wheel and run themselves or another vehicle off the road completely. When truckers are in a collision, they are often more protected due to the truck size, while other drivers usually absorb the brunt of impact. So if you or someone you care about was injured in an accident with a big rig, it’s possible the trucker was sleepy behind the wheel.
Despite there being government agencies and regulations for truckers, accidents happen all too often on roadways. Truckers may feel pressure to get where they need to be quickly because of a deadline, and may not give themselves enough breaks or sleep hours. Fatigue deteriorates a driver’s ability to drive safely, as it causes mental and physical exhuastion. Regardless of why the driver was fatigued, victims should pursue compensation for their injuries, damages, and losses.
Types of accidents caused by fatigue include:
- Side Impact Accidents
- Rear End Accidents
- Head On Collisions
- T-Bone Accidents
The best place to start following a truck accident
Many victims’ reality is that the injuries are likely far too substantial for them to make decisions on their own at the accident scene. Because of this, the ability to take control over the situation may be near impossible. Being involved in a traumatic accident can be disorientating, and you may not be in the right state of mind. If you are ever injured in an accident, stay as calm as you can and attempt to notify emergency personnel.
Above everything else, the most appropriate way to move forward will be to ensure that medical treatment is received as quickly as possible. If your injuries don’t seem too serious to you, you may be inclined to refuse medical treatment, but this is not recommended. There may be injuries that you may not be aware of because of shock or adrenaline. Having a medical evaluation immediately can add credibility to your case, and a medical report is one of the strongest pieces of evidence if you are filing a personal injury claim.
Following a truck accident, who is liable
This is a key reason to connect with a Decatur, Georgia truck accident lawyer. Determining responsibility can be complicated, mainly because there can be multiple parties involved. Sometimes the cause of an accident is not straightforward, and only professionals such as lawyers can spot the nuanced details that can point to who should be pursued. A lawyer can work closely with you and other figures important to the case to determine who is responsible by gathering information, speaking to witnesses, and reviewing critical documents such as the police report. When more than one party is involved, our team can determine how best to hold them accountable. Commonly responsible parties might include:
- The Truck Driver
- The Loaders of the Cargo
- The Trucking Company
Figuring out who is liable early is important because once you do it allows you to form a plan for how to build your case. Doing this early is recommended because there is a limited window of time for a lawyer to review information and gather evidence for your particular case. While there can be endless options, a lawyer can carefully review a case to determine who should be held accountable and how best to move forward with the matter.
Why are accidents involving large trucks so severe
Trucking accidents are often tragic, leaving all involved deeply impacted. This is largely because of the sheer size and force that a large truck can impose on other drivers on the road. They take up a lot of space, are slower than the flow of traffic and tend to stop or slow down frequently, forcing other drivers to move around them. They carry a variety of cargo, from construction materials, metal containers, products, animals, and flammable materials.
A truck accident can spark fires or explosions. When there is a truck accident on a freeway, it can result in multiple lane closures and injure a large number of people. When a truck is not in good condition, it can be a dangerous hazard to other drivers and pedestrians nearby. Even the most minor of accidents can result in injuries that are not only severe but also catastrophic.
What kind of injuries are commonly sustained in truck accidents
Truck accidents are often very severe because of the sheer size of the vehicles involved. Some of the most common injuries following a truck accident include:
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Head injuries, even as severe as traumatic brain injuries
- Cuts, scrapes, and bruises
- Whiplash
- Strained muscles
- + More
You should always seek medical attention after being involved in an accident, even if you do not think you are injured. Your doctor will be an important witness if you realize that you actually were hurt. Sometimes, people are injured in an accident but do not feel hurt right away because their adrenaline is still pumping and they do not realize they were injured. Having this documented can make or break your case later.
What types of damages might an accident victim be entitled to
A careful review of the case by a legal professional is critical when determining damages. A person who is filing a personal injury claim can be eligible to pursue economic, non-economic damages and punitive damages. The types of damages you can pursue depends on the evidence you present in court. When negligence is at play, victims may have the ability to pursue compensation for damages that include:
- Loss of Income (Present and Future)
- Medical Expenses
- Emotional Suffering
- Permanent Disabilities
- Pain and Suffering
- +More
It is important to speak with a truck accident lawyer from The Krause Law Firm so that you can get compensation for all of the damages you faced in your accident. Not only will a lawyer be able to add up all of the bills you have already paid, but he or she will also check to see what costs may occur in the future. Expert witnesses, like doctors who have treated issues similar to yours and others who have experienced similar injuries, will be able to help you in court. Your experienced truck accident lawyer will know how to best make an argument for future damages you may incur and what a fair payout would be from the negligent party.
FAQs about Truck Accident Laws
What should I do immediately after being involved in a truck accident in Decatur, GA?
If you’re involved in a truck accident in Decatur, GA, your first steps should focus on safety and legal compliance. Ensure you and others are safe and seek medical attention for any injuries. It’s crucial to call the police to the scene so they can file an accident report, a key document for any legal action or insurance claim. Exchange information with the other parties involved, including names, contact information, and insurance details. If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles and any relevant road conditions or signs. Avoid discussing fault at the scene. Lastly, consider consulting with a Decatur-based attorney who specializes in truck accidents to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
How is fault determined in truck accidents in Decatur, GA?
Fault in truck accidents in Decatur, GA, is determined by examining evidence, state laws, and regulations governing commercial trucking. Georgia operates under a modified comparative negligence system, meaning that the fault can be shared among parties, and compensation can be reduced based on the percentage of fault. The investigation into fault typically involves police reports, witness statements, trucking company records, driver logs, and accident reconstruction experts. Violations of federal and state trucking regulations, such as hours-of-service rules, maintenance standards, and load requirements, can also be pivotal. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help navigate these complexities to establish fault.
What types of compensation can I pursue after a truck accident in Decatur, GA?
After a truck accident in Decatur, GA, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the specifics of your case. These can include medical expenses for immediate and future treatments, lost wages if you’re unable to work, property damage reimbursement, and compensation for pain and suffering. In cases of egregious negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded. Georgia’s laws and the severity of your injuries will influence the compensation types and amounts. A skilled attorney can help you understand the compensation you’re entitled to and advocate on your behalf.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a truck accident in Decatur, GA?
In Decatur, GA, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from truck accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. For property damage claims, the limit extends to four years. Missing these deadlines can bar you from pursuing compensation through the courts. However, exceptions and specific circumstances might affect these timelines, such as claims against government entities or cases involving minors. Consulting with an attorney soon after your accident is critical to ensure that all legal requirements and deadlines are met.
Why should I hire a Decatur-based attorney for my truck accident case?
Hiring a Decatur-based attorney for your truck accident case is beneficial because they have a deep understanding of Georgia’s specific laws and regulations affecting truck accident liability and compensation. Local attorneys are also familiar with the state and federal regulations governing the trucking industry, local court procedures, and they likely have experience dealing with local insurers and defense attorneys. A Decatur attorney can provide personalized guidance, advocate for your best interests, and navigate the complexities of your case effectively, improving your chances of securing a favorable outcome.
Schedule your consultation today
You do not want to miss the statute of limitations for filing, so it is important to contact us immediately after being involved in an accident with a truck. We will speak to others on your behalf and make sure you do not jeopardize anything important in your case. Reach out to The Krause Law Firm today to learn more and secure representation from a Decatur truck accident lawyer in Georgia.