On highways such as I-75 and I-20, or on surface streets in downtown Atlanta, large commercial trucks carry freight throughout the city and beyond. When one of these vehicles crashes into a passenger car, the size and weight difference often leads to serious injuries, lost income, and mounting medical bills. Then, you also have to deal with calls from insurance adjusters while you try to recover. But an 18-wheeler truck accident attorney in Atlanta, GA, with our law firm can help.
The Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown represents people injured in 18-wheeler truck accidents throughout Atlanta, Georgia. Our Atlanta truck accident lawyer can step in to protect your rights, investigate the crash, and pursue maximum compensation under Georgia law. You do not have to take on a trucking company or its insurer alone. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Why 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents in Atlanta Create Complex Legal Claims
Truck accident claims have significant differences from those of a typical car accident case. Weight is the first major difference. A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, far more than a passenger vehicle. That weight increases the stopping distance and the force of impact during a crash.
Second, there are several regulations governing commercial vehicles. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has regulations that address hours-of-service limits, driver qualifications, inspection requirements, and vehicle maintenance standards.
Third is the multiple parties that are involved in the trucking industry. Depending on the facts, responsible parties may include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- A cargo loading company
- A maintenance or repair contractor
- The manufacturer of a defective truck part
Our personal injury attorney will identify every liable party, allowing you to pursue all available insurance coverage and build a claim that reflects the full scope of responsibility for the crash.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents on Atlanta Highways
Commercial vehicle crashes often stem from preventable conduct or safety violations. Common causes of 18-wheeler truck wrecks include:
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Improper cargo loading
- Mechanical failure
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
- Inadequate driver training
When we identify the cause of the crash, it allows us to connect the collision to a specific safety violation or negligent act, which forms the foundation of a personal injury claim.
Severe Injuries Often Seen in Tractor-Trailer Collisions
Because of the force involved, truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. Victims may suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Burns
These injuries can require surgery, extended hospitalization, and ongoing rehabilitation, and they can affect your ability to work and manage daily responsibilities.
Seeking Full Compensation After an Atlanta Truck Accident
A truck accident claim may include both economic and non-economic damages. These damages often include:
- Medical expenses and future treatment costs
- Rehabilitation and therapy expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
A complete evaluation of these losses supports a claim that reflects the full extent of the harm you have suffered.
How the Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown Prepares an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Case
Building a truck accident case requires preparation and attention to detail. Attorney Dwayne L. Brown brings 30 years of personal injury experience to these claims. Our office investigates the collision by reviewing driver logs, electronic control module data, maintenance records, inspection reports, and company safety policies. We work with qualified professionals when necessary to reconstruct the accident and evaluate damages.
At the Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown, we build a personal relationship with each client. We take time to understand what you are experiencing and how the injury has affected your life. We explain the legal process so that you know what to expect at each stage. We work with you as a team, adapt our strategy as the case develops, and maintain a focus on your stated goals.
Plus, we handle trucking accidents on a contingency fee basis. You do not pay attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Understanding Georgia’s Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims
Under O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33, you generally have two years from the date of the truck accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in court. If you miss this deadline, the court may dismiss your case, and you may lose the right to seek compensation.
Certain exceptions may apply in limited situations, such as cases involving government entities or minors. Because deadlines can affect your rights, you should speak with our attorney as soon as possible to determine how the statute of limitations applies to your situation.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident in Atlanta
You can take an active role in your recovery starting at the accident scene by doing the following:
- Seek immediate medical care.
- Report the crash to law enforcement and obtain a copy of the accident report.
- Gather and preserve evidence, including photographs and witness contact information.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal guidance.
- Contact our truck accident law firm to review your case.
Taking these actions early can help preserve evidence, prevent mistakes, and place you in a stronger position when dealing with insurers.
Speak With an Atlanta 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Attorney
After an 18-wheeler truck accident, you may feel pressure from insurance companies to resolve your claim quickly. You deserve time to understand your rights and the value of your case. We stand between you and the trucking company while you focus on your recovery.
The Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown represents injured individuals throughout Atlanta, Georgia. If you were hurt in a truck accident, call us today for a free case consultation and learn how an Atlanta 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer can help you move forward.
Atlanta, Georgia, 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Claim FAQs
Can more than one party be responsible for a truck accident?
Yes. The truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, maintenance provider, or another party may share legal responsibility depending on the facts.
What if the trucking company’s insurer contacts me quickly?
You have the right to decline a recorded statement and seek legal advice before discussing details of the crash or your injuries.
Does Georgia follow comparative fault rules?
Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence rule. You may recover damages if you are less than 50 percent responsible for the accident.
