You can see large 18-wheeler trucks on Atlanta roads every day. These vehicles weigh and carry thousands of pounds at one time. If an accident happens, a truck can cause severe injuries or death.
If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a truck crash, an Atlanta 18-wheeler accident lawyer can help. At John Foy & Associates, we’ve been helping people like you for over 20 years. Our lawyers know what it takes to win cases.
Working with us is risk-free — we do not charge a fee unless we win your case. To schedule a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Leading Causes of Atlanta 18-Wheeler Accidents
When truck accidents occur, the results are catastrophic. Unfortunately, there are many ways an 18-wheeler crash can happen. Here are some of the most common reasons we see.
Driver Fatigue
Trucking companies often set strict deadlines for their drivers. Even with federal laws, truckers will cut corners to push products faster. A driver could fail to rest appropriately or even falsify their work log.
Driving long distances within a short time can cause severe fatigue. Plus, many truckers drive throughout the night. A tired or drowsy driver can easily lead to a terrible accident.
Alcohol or Substance Use
Driving a large truck is stressful work. To cope with the pressure, some drivers will use drugs or alcohol while on the road. Of course, using substances while driving is both illegal and very negligent.
A drunk or drugged driver is never safe. It’s even worse if the driver is operating an enormous vehicle. If an accident happens, many people can become fatally injured.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Trucking companies must regularly inspect and maintain their trucks. If someone drops the ball, poor maintenance can cause an accident. For example, the tires or brakes could malfunction.
When a truck part doesn’t work correctly, it’s hazardous. If an accident happens, the trucking company, maintenance company, or manufacturer could be at fault.
Truck Driver Mistakes
All drivers in Atlanta must exercise reasonable care. If a driver is not careful, the legal term is negligence (Georgia Code Section 51-1-2). Negligent driver actions can include:
- Failing to yield
- Speeding excessively
- Running a red light
- Changing lanes without signaling
- Failing to check blind spots
- Driving recklessly
Truck drivers must give the road their full attention. Drivers must also drive safely and carefully. If a driver is careless, they can easily cause an accident.
If a truck driver caused your accident, you have rights. Talk to a lawyer about seeking compensation through a personal injury claim. To learn more about your options, contact John Foy & Associates.
To schedule a FREE consultation today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
What to Do After an Atlanta 18-Wheeler Accident
After an accident, there are ways you can protect your rights. Here are some actions we recommend doing as soon as possible.
Get Medical Help
After any accident, get medical attention. Truck accident injuries are often very severe. If you have life-threatening injuries, don’t wait to get treatment.
Waiting too long to get treatment will hurt your case. The insurance company will use the delay against you. The insurance company might also claim that your injuries were not from the accident.
Plus, waiting to get medical attention might worsen your injuries. It’s best to get treatment right away before anything gets more severe.
Preserve the Accident Scene
Do what you can to document the accident, such as:
- Calling 911 to report the accident
- Taking pictures of the accident scene
- Photographing your injuries and vehicle damage
- Asking for contact information from witnesses
- Getting the truck driver’s contact and insurance information
Keep Track of Your Damages
After the accident, document all of your damages. Save medical bills, receipts, and more. You’ll need to calculate the full value of your injuries.
When you meet with an Atlanta 18-wheeler accident lawyer, bring all evidence to the consultation. The more information you have, the easier it will be for your lawyer to get started.
If a loved one died in a truck accident, call a lawyer. Your lawyer will help with all of the above steps. They’ll know how to build a strong wrongful death case for your family.
Atlanta 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Near Me 404-400-4000
Be Careful What You Say After a Truck Accident in Atlanta
If you were not at fault for your accident, you have legal rights. You can pursue financial recovery for your costs. However, what you say has a significant impact on your case.
Don’t say anything to the insurance company without a truck accident lawyer. Also, be careful about anything you say at the scene. Avoid saying sorry or admitting any blame for the crash. The insurance company could use anything you say against you.
A truck accident lawyer will guide you on what to say and do. Contact an attorney today to protect yourself. Your lawyer can speak and negotiate for you.
Damages Available in an 18-Wheeler Accident Case
Truck accidents are catastrophic and costly. They often result in terrible injuries or deaths. If you did not cause your accident, you have the right to compensation.
Common damages from an 18-wheeler accident include:
- Doctor bills
- Hospital bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
Your lawyer will help determine the value of your damages. They’ll determine your total costs to include in your claim.
For a free legal consultation with a 18-wheeler accidents lawyer serving Atlanta, call 404-400-4000
Talk to an Atlanta 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer for Free Today
If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in an 18-wheeler accident, contact John Foy & Associates. We can help you and your family seek the recovery you deserve. Plus, we will not charge a fee unless we win your case.
We have been helping truck accident victims for over 20 years. We’re not afraid to “strong-arm” the insurance companies and fight for you. It’s why we’re one of the most respected law firms in Georgia.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your FREE consultation.
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