18 Wheeler Accident Lawyers In Georgia

In the unfortunate event of a collision involving a commercial truck, The Firm's team of 18 wheeler accident lawyers stands ready to assist you in safeguarding your legal rights and securing the maximum compensation to cover medical expenses, future healthcare needs, lost income, potential future earnings, and the emotional toll of pain and suffering.

If you or a loved one has experienced an 18 wheeler accident in Atlanta, don't hesitate to reach out to The Firm. Our highly experienced semi-truck accident attorneys are available 24/7/365 for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your situation.

Identifying the Root Causes of 18 Wheeler Accidents

Understanding the causes of truck accidents can be a challenging endeavor, often necessitating a comprehensive investigation.

The factors contributing to 18 wheeler crashes may be set in motion well before the actual incident. For instance, an 18-wheeler might undergo extensive maintenance and remain inactive for an extended period before a driver embarks on a journey, only to lose control of the vehicle and cause a collision.

Without a thorough inquiry, such circumstances can be challenging to unravel.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has outlined a range of factors associated with large truck crashes, including driver distractions, tailgating, illegal maneuvers, driver health issues, substance impairment, poor surveillance, over-the-counter drug use, unfamiliarity with the roadway, driver fatigue, inadequate surveillance, employer pressure, roadway conditions, excessive speed, brake issues, cargo shifting, and tire problems.

In many instances, 18 wheeler accidents can be attributed to multiple factors. For example, an investigation may uncover a situation where a trucking company altered a driver's regular route to an unfamiliar one and pressured the driver to complete it within a tight timeframe, disregarding factors like adverse weather conditions. Law enforcement reports may or may not reveal the primary cause of the accident.

At The Graham Firm, we collaborate with top accident investigators in Georgia to uncover the root causes of accidents and identify all potentially liable parties, which may include not only drivers but also trucking companies, tractor owners, trailer owners, logistics companies, freight companies, maintenance facilities, brokers, shippers, and insurers.

Steps to Take When Involved in an 18 Wheeler Accident

The sheer size and weight of an 18 wheeler, which can range from 35,000 to 80,000 pounds, depending on its load, make collisions with such vehicles potentially catastrophic or even fatal.

Whether you're a driver, passenger, motorcyclist, bicyclist, or pedestrian involved in an 18 wheeler accident, it's crucial to act promptly:

1. Document the accident scene through photos and videos, or enlist someone to assist.
2. Dial 911 to report the accident.
3. Seek immediate medical attention without delay.
4. After addressing your immediate medical needs, get in touch with an attorney to explore your legal options.

Trucking companies are known to have their own legal representation or retained law firms at the ready to assist them following an accident. At The Graham Firm, we have extensive experience dealing with the complexities of 18 wheeler accidents and handle claims against both large and small trucking companies, as well as owner-operator drivers.

Distinguishing Between Truck Accident and Car Wreck Cases

Personal injury claims arising from 18 wheeler accidents can be intricate and distinct from typical car accidents involving passenger vehicles.

These cases involve trucking companies and federal regulations.

Truck drivers must undergo proper training for handling large commercial vehicles, and the maintenance and inspection of such trucks are paramount. The specific inspection requirements may vary depending on where the truck operates, whether in a single state or across multiple states.

Trucking companies are well-versed in accident litigation and the significant costs involved.

They take measures to protect their legal and financial interests, training drivers to follow strict checklists and capture vital details using road-facing and driver-facing cameras. These recordings can serve as evidence, provided your attorney preserves them for review.

After an accident, a damaged truck might be rapidly towed significant distances and repaired or destroyed within days. Time is of the essence in 18 wheeler accident litigation.

Reach out to a Georgia 18 wheeler accident lawyer at your earliest convenience. A seasoned attorney will promptly issue a spoliation letter to ensure that essential records, such as driver qualification files, driver logs, and maintenance records, are retained and safeguarded for examination.

The Timeline of a Commercial Truck Accident Lawsuit

One of the most common questions raised by accident victims during their initial consultation revolves around the duration of the legal process.

While the length of a personal injury claim can vary from several months to several years, the insurance company's initial settlement offer may only represent a fraction of the total compensation you're entitled to.

Assessing the full extent of your damages, especially if they involve severe or permanent injuries, is crucial to determining the final recovery amount.

The Cost of Hiring an Attorney After an 18-Wheeler Accident

When you retain a truck accident attorney for your commercial vehicle personal injury claim, you can typically expect them to work on a contingency fee basis.

This means you won't have to bear any upfront costs or out-of-pocket expenses.

The law firm only gets paid a percentage of your monetary recovery, whether through a settlement or trial verdict, and assumes all the financial risks associated with your case. In the unlikely event that they accept your case but fail to secure compensation for you, you won't owe them a dime.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an 18 wheeler accident lawyer, and what do they do in Georgia?

An 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Georgia specializes in handling legal cases related to accidents involving large commercial trucks, providing legal assistance to victims and working to secure compensation.

2. What makes 18 wheeler accidents different from regular car accidents in Georgia?

18 wheeler accidents in Georgia involve complex factors, including federal regulations and multiple liable parties like trucking companies, making them distinct from typical car accidents.

3. How do I know if I need an 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Georgia?

If you've been involved in an 18 wheeler accident in Georgia and suffered injuries or property damage, it's advisable to consult with a lawyer to assess your legal options.

4. What should I do immediately after an 18 wheeler accident in Georgia?

After ensuring your safety and seeking medical attention, you should document the accident scene, call 911, and contact a lawyer to protect your legal rights.

5. What information should I provide to my 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Georgia during the initial consultation?

During the initial consultation, provide details about the accident, injuries, insurance information, and any other relevant facts.

6. How do 18 wheeler accident lawyers in Georgia investigate the cause of accidents?

They collaborate with accident investigators, review evidence, and gather information from various sources to determine the root causes of accidents.

7. What are common causes of 18 wheeler accidents in Georgia?

Common causes include driver distraction, speeding, impaired driving, vehicle maintenance issues, and pressure from employers.

8. What is the role of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration in 18 wheeler accidents in Georgia?

The FMCSA sets regulations and guidelines for commercial trucking, playing a crucial role in ensuring safety and compliance.

9. How long does it typically take to settle an 18 wheeler accident case in Georgia?

The duration can vary but often ranges from several months to several years, depending on the case's complexity.

10. What compensation can I receive in an 18 wheeler accident case in Georgia? - You may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future earnings, pain and suffering, and property damage.

11. Do I have to pay upfront fees to hire an 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Georgia? - Most lawyers in Georgia handle such cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no upfront fees; they only get paid a percentage of your recovery if you win your case.

12. Are there any time limits for filing an 18 wheeler accident lawsuit in Georgia? - Yes, Georgia has a statute of limitations, typically two years, so it's important to act promptly to preserve your legal rights.

13. What steps can an 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Georgia take to preserve evidence in my case? - Lawyers issue spoliation letters to ensure crucial records, such as driver qualification files and maintenance records, are retained and safeguarded for review.

14. Can I still pursue a case if I were partially at fault for the 18 wheeler accident in Georgia? - Georgia follows a modified comparative fault rule, allowing you to pursue a case even if partially at fault, but your compensation may be reduced accordingly.

15. What if the at-fault party's insurance company offers a settlement? - It's advisable to consult with your lawyer before accepting any settlement offer, as it may not reflect the full extent of your damages.

16. Are there specific regulations for commercial trucks operating within Georgia? - Yes, Georgia enforces state and federal regulations governing commercial truck operations, safety, and maintenance.

17. How can I ensure my rights are protected when dealing with insurance companies after an 18 wheeler accident in Georgia? - Consulting with an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the insurance process and ensure your rights are safeguarded.

18. What role does evidence such as camera footage play in 18 wheeler accident cases in Georgia? - Camera recordings can serve as critical evidence in these cases and can help establish liability and prove your claims.

19. Can I pursue a claim against multiple parties in an 18 wheeler accident case in Georgia? - Yes, in many cases, you can seek compensation from various liable parties, including drivers, trucking companies, and others involved.

20. What sets The Graham Firm apart as 18 wheeler accident lawyers in Georgia? - The Graham Firm boasts a team of skilled attorneys who work diligently to investigate cases thoroughly, identify responsible parties, and fight for fair compensation on behalf of their clients, drawing on years of experience in the field.