Tow trucks move damaged, defective, or improperly-parked vehicles in Sandy Springs. Since these trucks transfer heavy vehicles throughout the city, their drivers must be careful. When something goes wrong, it can cause a severe accident.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a tow truck-related accident, you might deserve compensation. A personal injury case can help you recover for medical costs, lost wages, and more. It’s best to start by working with a Sandy Springs tow truck accident lawyer.
At John Foy & Associates, we know what it takes to win truck accident claims. Our experienced and compassionate lawyers have been helping accident victims for over 20 years. To learn your options during a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Types of Tow Trucks in Sandy Springs
There are different varieties of tow trucks, depending on the need. The most common types include:
- Flatbed tow trucks
- Hook and chain tow trucks
- Heavy-duty tow trucks
- Wheel-lift tow trucks
- Integrated tow trucks
The type of truck will determine what it can handle. For example, heavy-duty or oversized tow trucks can manage most vehicles. One of the most common types is the flatbed tow truck, which is often used for totaled vehicles or roadside assistance.
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How Tow Truck Accidents Happen
The nature of tow trucks is already risky. A truck is pulling another large vehicle, sometimes for long distances. If one thing goes wrong, the results can be hazardous.
A tow truck accident might happen because of:
- Too-heavy loads
- Broken equipment or chains
- Inexperienced drivers
- Speeding or other reckless driving
- Driver fatigue
- Busy highway traffic
- Failure to yield or check blind spots
- Parking in an unsafe location
Tow truck drivers might race each other to arrive at an accident scene first. This can lead to reckless driving simply in an effort to make more money. Some tow truck companies are even okay with their drivers being aggressive to get more work.
If you suffered injuries, you’ll need to identify what caused the accident. The cause will help you prove who was responsible for the crash and your injuries.
Improper Loading and Tow Truck Accidents
Each trip on a tow truck can involve different types of cargo. When a driver picks up a load, they must be careful. A fully-loaded truck creates a higher center of gravity. The truck is more likely to roll or tilt over on the road.
Improper loading is a common cause of truck accidents. The driver should check (and double-check) that a vehicle is secured before driving. They should also watch for falling car pieces as they drive. Vehicles with a lot of damage can fall apart during the trip and fall into the roadway.
Poor road conditions or driver inexperience can also lead to accidents. A poorly-loaded vehicle can fall and harm others if the driver isn’t careful.
When the Tow Truck Company Is Liable
Tow truck companies must ensure all drivers have proper training and experience. If a driver causes an accident, the company is usually liable. Under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §51-2-2, an employer is typically responsible for their employee’s actions.
Some tow truck drivers work as independent contractors. If so, the company that hires the driver can usually avoid liability. The driver himself or herself might be responsible for your damages.
Tow Truck Accident Injuries
The injuries from a truck accident are often severe. We have seen injuries like:
- Broken bones
- Neck and back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries
Tow truck injuries can affect someone’s entire life. You might have costly medical bills that last many years. If you can’t work because of your injuries, that affects your livelihood and ability to support yourself.
You shouldn’t have to bear the costs of a crash that wasn’t your fault. If you were injured because of a tow truck, talk to a Sandy Springs tow truck accident lawyer. You will need to know your full legal and compensation options.
To learn more, contact John Foy & Associates. With over 20 years of experience, we can guide you in the right direction. Schedule a free consultation by calling (404) 400-4000 any time.
What to Do After a Tow Truck Accident
The moments after a tow truck accident can feel surreal. You might be in a lot of pain and shock. But if you can take the following actions, it will benefit your case:
- Call 9-1-1 to report the accident to the police
- Check yourself and others for injuries
- Call for an ambulance if anyone needs emergency medical help
- Take pictures of your injuries, vehicle damage, and the whole accident scene
- Get the names and contact information for witnesses
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the tow truck driver
Also, contact a tow truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can start investigating your accident immediately. They will use any information you gather to build your case.
Be careful if the driver’s or tow truck company’s insurance company contacts you. The insurance adjuster is, above all, looking for ways to reduce costs. Instead of following the adjuster’s lead, avoid talking to them until you have a lawyer.
You typically have two years from the accident to file your case. If you wait too long, you could miss your chance entirely. To make sure you have all of the right information, call an experienced lawyer today.
Our Sandy Springs Tow Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help
At John Foy & Associates, we’ll fight for the fullest compensation possible after a tow truck accident. We have been supporting the rights of accident victims for over 20 years. If you suffered injuries in this type of crash, you have legal rights.
Our lawyers only work on contingency. That means we don’t charge you a thing unless we win you money. Plus, the consultation is always free.
To speak with one of our experienced and compassionate lawyers today, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online. We’ll get you started with a free, no-obligation consultation.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form