Tucker Truck Accident Lawyer

A single accident in Tucker that involves a large commercial truck can change your life forever. These crashes are often far worse than the average passenger vehicle collision because of the large size and weight of the truck.

In most cases, it’s the driver and passengers in the passenger car that is harmed as well—not the truck driver. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, you need to talk to a truck accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options. 

John Foy & Associates understands just how serious truck accidents can be because we have been helping victims of these often-horrific accidents for over 25 years. We not only understand how much they can impact your life, but we also know the specific laws that apply to truckers and trucking companies that can help you win your legal case. Let us give you a free consultation. Call us at 404-400-4000 and get your free consultation today.

Why Are Trucking Accidents Often So Severe?

The biggest reason that trucking accidents result in more serious injuries is that there is a significant size difference between the average car and a semi-truck. The truck’s size causes an array of difficulties for anyone involved in an accident.

• Trucks are harder to control. Semi-trucks are harder to maneuver generally. This is particularly true when the driver is trying to make a turn. These vehicles also have a higher likelihood to roll over and jack-knife as well. 
• They slow down and speed up slower. Trucks are hard to stop because they weigh so much more than the average car. They also cannot speed up as fast as smaller vehicles. While this is generally true when a truck is empty, the weight of the items the semi is hauling will have a significant impact on acceleration and stopping distance too.
• Trucks have huge blind spots. Because of how trailers are connected to the vehicle, trucks have large blind spots. While drivers should take care not drive in these areas if possible, truckers also need to make every effort they can to check these problem areas before turning or switching lanes.
• It takes more distance to stop. Trucks not only stop slower, but they also cover more ground when they do stop. That means that something that is far enough ahead of a car to avoid may be too close for a truck. 
• They drive long distances and hours. Trucks haul huge loads. This cargo may need to get across the country quickly, which means that the vehicle itself is on the road longer and the truck driver might be overworked and tired while behind the wheel. These factors increase the likelihood that an accident will occur.

Thankfully, the federal government and the State of Georgia understand these unique factors that affect trucks. There are specific state and federal laws and regulations that apply only to truck drivers and trucking companies.

These laws help decrease accidents by requiring that loads not be over a certain size, drivers operate their vehicles only a limited number of hours, and maintenance requirements, just to name a few. Knowing and understanding these laws will be very helpful for your truck accident case in Tucker. 

Can Any Car Accident Lawyer Help With a Truck Accident Case?

Only a lawyer who has extensive experience with truck accident cases should work on these kinds of claims. Car accident cases and truck crash cases are very different. They involve more severe injuries and property damage, but they have some other important differences as well.

Unique Areas of the Law

The vast majority of car accident cases in Tucker will only involve Georgia law. But, trucking crashes will often use both state and federal law. 

If your lawyer has no experience with trucking accident cases, they might not realize to look for specific information that will help your situation because it shows that the truck driver or trucking company violated federal law.

It’s a good idea to have an attorney that has specific experience in your type of case. Be sure to ask if the lawyer has done cases like yours as part of your initial meeting.

Increased Insurance Coverage

The other reason that having a lawyer with trucking accident experience is necessary is that it’s a good idea to work with someone who has dealt with trucking insurance companies as well. Truck drivers may not have the same type of insurance policy as the average driver (in fact, they are required by law to have much more extensive insurance). 

Companies that offer these types of policies have a great deal of experience dealing with truck accident claims. They know the extensive damage that trucks can cause, and they will often try to settle quickly before you realize just how severe your injuries actually are. Having a lawyer who knows what tricks and traps a trucking insurance provider might argue is a must.

How Long Will My Truck Accident Case Take?

There really isn’t a good answer to this question. Every case is different. And, some situations that seem like they’re straightforward may get drawn out because of the insurance company, the court’s schedule, or other reasons beyond your (or your lawyer’s) control.

Some cases can be settled and finalized within just a few months of starting them. Many cases may even conclude before you have to file a lawsuit. Others can take years to prepare and actually try the case in front of a jury.

You can get a settlement at any point in the litigation process. In some cases, you may need to file a lawsuit because the insurance company or trucking company isn’t offering you the type of settlement you need to account for your losses after a trucking accident. Some cases are settled just hours before trial – it will all depend on the unique facts of your case.

Talk to a Tucker Truck Accident Lawyer

You don’t have to work with the trucking company’s insurance company on your own – and you shouldn’t! Get an experienced team on your side by calling John Foy & Associates. Let us give you a FREE consultation. Call us at 404-400-4000 or fill out the form to your right and get your FREE consultation today.