Moving vans in Alpharetta often contain heavy or hazardous contents. Renters might also be inexperienced and unaccustomed to driving a large and bulky vehicle. For these reasons and more, moving van accidents are too common.
If you or a loved one were injured in this type of crash, contact an Alpharetta moving van accident lawyer. You might deserve financial compensation for your medical costs and more. At John Foy & Associates, we know what it takes to build strong cases and win.
After your accident, call the “Strong Arm” to fight for your rights. With over 20 years of experience, we are not afraid to stand up for what you deserve. You also don’t pay us until we win you money.
To get a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online today.
Causes of Moving Van Accidents
Accidents with moving vans can happen for a variety of reasons. The driver could be at fault, or a company or other party might be liable.
Common causes of these crashes include:
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Other types of driver negligence
- Poorly-maintained vans
- Renting to an unfit driver
- Inadequate driver training
- Defective van parts
Regular drivers often rent out moving vans. That means the driver does not have professional commercial driver training. If a rental company isn’t careful, they might rent to someone who is not safe to drive.
Moving companies will also employ people to load and drive their trucks. If an employed driver is at fault, it might be because the company was negligent.
The status of the renter will determine who is liable. If the at-fault driver is an employee, the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §51-2-2 says the company is probably accountable. However, a renter driving a moving van is probably personally liable for an accident they cause.
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Moving Van Driver Negligence
Driver actions are usually at fault for a moving van accident. If the driver was negligent (another term for careless), you’ll need to know the details.
Examples of driver negligence include:
- Speeding
- DUI
- Failure to yield
- Unsafe lane changes
- Texting while driving
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Poorly-loaded van cargo
If you were not at fault for your accident, you likely have a personal injury case. You can file an insurance claim or lawsuit to seek compensation for your costs. However, your claim will need to prove how the driver or other party was at fault.
Other Reasons for a Moving Van Accident
Driver negligence is not always the cause of a moving van accident. If something else led to your accident, you’ll need to investigate. For instance:
- Van maintenance issues are usually the responsibility of a mechanic.
- Faulty van parts would be due to poor manufacturing.
- Loading issues or employee negligence is usually the fault of a moving van company.
- Outdated vehicles that cause accidents are often the fault of the van or trucking company.
An Alpharetta moving van accident lawyer can determine who is at fault. From there, they can help you build a claim against the at-fault party. At John Foy & Associates, we have been doing this for clients for over 20 years.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. There is no fee unless we win you money. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started today.
Recovering Accident Damages
A moving van accident can leave you with overwhelming damages. Personal injury damages consist of two main categories:
- Economic damages, like medical bills, lost wages, and property damage
- Non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, mental anguish, and a loss of enjoyment of life
You can prove economic damages through bills and other documentation. However, it’s important to calculate each loss correctly. You could end up paying out of pocket for costs you don’t include in your claim.
Non-economic damages are more complicated. These losses are about how your injuries impact your life. It’s best to speak with a lawyer about these damages and what they’re worth.
If you were not at fault for your accident, you shouldn’t have to pay the costs. A personal injury claim can seek compensation for your damages. Talk to a lawyer today to make sure you’re on the right track toward claiming what you deserve.
How to Bring a Moving Van Accident Claim
All drivers and companies should carry liability insurance in case of an accident. After your injuries, you can file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. However, this doesn’t guarantee money.
You will need to build a strong case to support your claim. This involves steps like:
- Gathering evidence of the accident and your injuries
- Calculating all of your damages from the accident
- Negotiating with the insurance company for a fair settlement
- Taking the case to court, if necessary
A moving van accident lawyer will let the insurance company know about your claim. They will gather the right evidence to show what happened and how you were affected. Many times, the insurance company will respond with a lowball settlement.
Insurance companies are for-profit businesses. They care most about their profit, meaning they will look for ways to pay as little as possible. For this reason, do not accept the first insurance settlement offer. Talk to an experienced lawyer first to make sure you’re getting a good deal.
Your lawyer can communicate and negotiate with the insurer for you. This usually results in a settlement offer wherein you get paid and can begin to move on. However, if the insurance company refuses to settle, you might need to take your case to court.
Talk to an Alpharetta Moving Van Accident Lawyer Today
Life can feel unsure and overwhelming after a moving van accident. But you do not have to handle the situation alone. At John Foy & Associates, we’ll deal with all of the above and more.
While we focus on the legal side of things, you can work on healing and being with your family. You also don’t have to worry about upfront costs or paying us unless we win your case.
To learn more during a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
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