Big rigs and other large trucks are deadly when they get into an accident. After suffering injuries in Columbus, you have a right to seek compensation. It’s best to contact a Columbus big rig accident lawyer for help.
At John Foy & Associates, we bring the “Strong Arm” power to each case. We’re not afraid to fight for the money you deserve after what you’ve lost. To discuss the details of your case, contact us for a free consultation. To get your free consultation today, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
What Percentage do Accident Lawyers Get?
Lawyers who work on truck accident cases typically take around 33% of what they win you. The percentage can be slightly higher for more complicated cases where you could win more.
Personal injury lawyers work on contingency, which means the lawyer takes a percentage of what the client wins.
If the case doesn’t end with a settlement, the lawyer doesn’t take anything. This saves clients from any risk. You don’t pay anything unless you win money.
Big rig collisions are often severe. Life-threatening injuries and damage are common, leading to hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars in settlements. Even if the lawyer’s fee is higher, the injured person has the potential to win big.
Get the strong arm
Can You Sue After a Big Rig Accident?
If you were not at fault for your accident, you can file a lawsuit. You’ll first need to know who is responsible for the crash.
Personal injury lawsuits depend on negligence, which is another word for carelessness. The negligent party in an accident should cover the costs.
Your losses from the accident are your personal injury “damages.”
Who You Can Sue for Damages
After a truck accident, you might be able to sue:
- The trucking company
- The truck driver
- A mechanic or maintenance company
- The vehicle or parts manufacturer
- A government agency
Truck accident cases are unique. With most car accidents, one of two drivers is responsible. But truck collisions can involve multiple parties.
Let’s look at how each party could be liable.
The Truck Company
Employers are usually liable for their employees’ actions, according to OCGA §51-2-2.
If the truck driver is a full-time employee and causes an accident, the trucking company is probably responsible. The company should provide insurance to cover possible accidents.
Many truck crashes happen because of tired truckers. While trucking companies should follow regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), some companies will cut corners.
A lawyer can help you investigate how the company may be responsible for the accident.
The Truck Driver
Some commercial truck drivers are independent contractors. If the driver isn’t an employee, they have fewer legal protections. You might be able to sue the driver directly for your accident.
A Maintenance Company
Trucks need regular maintenance to function correctly. These vehicles travel hundreds of miles at a time.
If poor maintenance contributed to the accident, the company that worked on the truck could be at fault.
A Manufacturer
Sometimes, defective truck parts can lead to an accident or worsen injuries. If so, you might have a lawsuit against the manufacturing company.
A Government Agency
Poor road conditions that lead to an accident could mean a government entity is at fault.
Suing a government agency is complicated and has shorter deadlines. Talk to a lawyer immediately to ensure you take action in time.
How to Know If You Need a Lawyer
You do not have to hire a lawyer after an accident, but it’s often a good idea. Truck accidents are some of the most serious cases. Having a professional eye on your case can help your outcome tremendously.
You might need a lawyer if:
The Insurance Company Denied Your Claim
Insurance companies can deny claims for many reasons. If you get a denial, it’s time to call a lawyer.
Your lawyer can determine why your claim was denied and what you should do next. You might need to take your case to court if you cannot get a settlement offer.
You Get a Lowball Offer
Low insurance offers are very common. The insurance company might only offer you a smaller percentage of what you deserve.
Experienced lawyers know how to negotiate. Your attorney will work to reach a settlement that works for both sides.
If you got a lowball offer, call our team at John Foy & Associates today. We’ll go over your best options during a free, no-obligation consultation.
Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your free consultation.
You Have Severe Injuries
More serious damages mean a more complicated case.
As you get treatment and heal, it’s nearly impossible to handle a legal claim alone. You’ll probably need professional help to gather evidence and build your lawsuit.
You can start with a free consultation. The first meeting lets you get to know the lawyer and discuss the details of your accident.
What Is a Good Settlement Offer?
An ideal settlement covers all of your accident damages. The settlement should account for everything you’ve lost because of the accident.
Before you can know what’s fair, you’ll need to know your total damages.
Common big rig accident damages include:
- Medical bills
- Prescription drug costs
- Long-term treatment costs
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
We have won verdicts worth millions of dollars, many involving large trucks. Be sure to work with a lawyer who considers all of your damages. That includes financial costs and emotional injuries like pain and suffering.
Wrongful Death Claims
Tragically, many truck accidents result in death. Passenger vehicles are no match for commercial trucks. Victims can suffer life-threatening or disabling injuries.
If you lost a loved one in an accident, talk to a lawyer today. You and your family might have a wrongful death claim. If so, you can bring a lawsuit on behalf of the lost loved one.
Speak with a Columbus Big Rig Accident Lawyer for Free
Get the legal help you need from our trusted lawyers at John Foy & Associates today. We know what it takes to win complicated cases.
Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a free consultation. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
706-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form