Moving trucks and vans are common on Atlanta roads. These vehicles provide affordable moving solutions for those changing locations. Of course, accidents can happen with any vehicle type — including moving vans. If a moving van has hit you, it’s time to contact an Atlanta lawyer for help.
John Foy & Associates can assist you. With 20-plus years of experience, we know how to win cases. We’ll handle the legal details while you focus on healing.
Our lawyers do not charge a fee unless we win your case. To get a FREE consultation today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
How Moving Van Accidents Happen in Atlanta
Moving van accidents often occur because of driver negligence.
Van and truck drivers must exercise reasonable care. When a driver is not careful, Georgia law considers it negligence (Georgia Code Section 51-1-2). When negligence leads to an accident, the negligent party is responsible for the costs.
Examples of negligent driving include:
- Speeding
- Failing to yield
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Failing to signal
- Running a red light
- Reckless driving
Even small mistakes can lead to terrible accidents. If a driver’s actions cause your accident, you have rights. You can pursue financial compensation through a personal injury claim.
Besides driver negligence, here are some other causes of moving van accidents.
Distracted Driving
Moving van drivers must often juggle several actions at once. They might need to contact customers in between jobs. Drivers might also need to keep track of their routes or deliveries.
Sadly, distracted driving is incredibly common. A moving van driver might become distracted by:
- Text messages
- GPS directions
- Emails
- Putting on makeup
- Talking to passengers
Distracted driving is serious. Van and truck drivers must be especially careful to avoid distractions. If a driver fails to do so, they can cause a severe accident.
Rental Van Company Negligence
If the driver is an employee, their employer is usually at fault. Truck and van companies are typically responsible for their employees’ actions on the job.
The company can also be at fault if you crashed the van while renting it. For example, the van could have defects or other issues that cause an accident.
Poor Driver Training
Moving van companies must carefully train their drivers. Unfortunately, inexperienced drivers are too common in Atlanta.
A driver must receive proper training and experience with moving vans. Inadequate training can easily lead to an accident. Most of the time, the moving van company is liable for the crash.
Defective Parts or Maintenance Issues
Moving vans often travel hundreds or thousands of miles. Companies and drivers must adequately inspect and maintain their vehicles. Otherwise, poor maintenance can lead to an accident.
Sometimes, defective van parts can also cause a crash. If a defect leads to the accident, a manufacturer could be at fault.
Weather or Road Conditions
Road conditions can sometimes lead to accidents. Inclement weather or road hazards might cause a moving van to roll over or crash. Since vans are top-heavy and bulky, drivers are more likely to lose control during dangerous conditions.
More than one party might be at fault for your accident. You and your lawyer will investigate what happened and who was responsible. If several parties are at fault, you’ll have more than one personal injury case.
At John Foy & Associates, we’ll determine your legal rights after your accident. Contact us today to discuss your options. For a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Understanding Who Pays for a Moving Van Accident
When you rent a moving truck, the company will usually provide liability insurance options. This insurance covers damages if you get into an accident. After the accident, you’d file a claim with the van company’s insurance.
If a moving van crashes into you, the van company’s insurance usually still applies. You’ll file a claim with the company’s insurance. If the driver rejected the company’s coverage, you might file a claim with the driver’s own insurance.
Insurance companies do not like to pay much on claims. No matter where you file your claim, it won’t be simple. The insurance company will look for ways to reduce their costs. To protect your rights, get an Atlanta moving van accident lawyer.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 404-400-4000
Four Reasons to Contact an Atlanta Moving Van Accident Lawyer Now
An experienced lawyer will help your case in many different ways. Here are some of the essential reasons to call a lawyer.
1. Gathering Evidence
After a moving van accident, it’s crucial to document the scene. You’ll want to gather as much evidence as possible. Otherwise, you could lose vital details about the crash.
Essential evidence to gather includes:
- Pictures from the accident scene
- Witness contact information
- A copy of the police report
- Contact information from the driver
A lawyer will also help you keep track of your personal injury damages. They’ll help you gather medical bills, receipts, and more. Without legal assistance, you might miss important information for your case.
2. Memories Fade Quickly
People forget essential details as time goes on. It’s best to get witness statements as soon as possible. You’ll also need to document your memories fo the crash immediately.
A moving van accident lawyer will ensure you get the right information as soon as possible.
3. Georgia’s Statute of Limitations
In Georgia, the statute of limitations is two years (Georgia Code Section 9-3-33). You have two years from the accident date to file your claim.
If you miss the statute of limitations, you’ll miss your chance to get compensation. You must build and file your case before the deadline. Your lawyer will make sure you stay on track.
4. Protecting Yourself From the Insurance Companies
After your file your claim, the insurance company will respond. Most insurers will offer a lowball settlement. If you accept an offer, you won’t be able to pursue higher recovery.
Your lawyer will handle the insurance companies for you. You won’t have to worry about communicating or negotiating for your settlement.
Talk to an Atlanta Moving Van Accident Lawyer for Free Today
At John Foy & Associates, we’ve been helping accident victims for over 20 years. Our lawyers are not afraid to fight for your rights. We also do not charge a fee unless we win you money.
To schedule a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Call or text 404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form