Call for a Free Consultation 678-753-6431Atlanta Truck Accident Injury Assistance
Protect Yourself after a Big Truck Accident
Accidents with large trucks and commercial vehicles on the roads of Metro Atlanta create unique issues for lawyers and the parties they represent where it is crucial that you retain an attorney immediately if you are injured in an accident with a commercial truck.
What to Do if You are Involved in an Atlanta Truck Accident
Evaluate the accident scene for injuries and call the Police and EMS personnel as quickly as possible
Make contact with other parties involved in the accident and exchange your name, address, phone number, and insurance information
Seek medical treatment as quickly as possible for any pain you are feeling
Document the day the accident occurred to the best of your ability from the time you woke up until you went to bed, being as detailed as possible.
Keep a journal of the pain you are experiencing while you are recovering. Describe it in detail. Note things you are having trouble doing. If the accident has impacted your ability to perform your job, your mental health, your relationships, write it down. Keep as detailed notes as possible about how the accident has impacted your life.
What Should You Do After a Truck Accident?
An accident with a big truck can create consequences beyond repairing your vehicle and getting the necessary medical treatment. If you’ve been injured by an 18 wheeler or other commercial vehicle, the most important thing is to make sure you are actively treating your injuries in line with your doctor’s recommendations.
The next most important thing is you need to begin investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident as quickly as possible. This involves interviewing witnesses, investigating the accident scene, acquiring all necessary driver and truck records, and even an investigation of the truck itself to see if any defective parts or lack of maintenance may have contributed to the accident.
Through investigation, you can come up with a theory of liability as to what caused the accident.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Driver Fatigue
Defective Equipment
Reckless Driving
Improperly Secured Loads
Improper Lane Chance
Improper Vehicle Maintenance
Unsafe Passing
Distracted Driving
Failing to Maintain Lane
Following Too Closely
Unique Liability and Insurance Issues in Truck Accidents
Truck accidents involve more than an accident report and the statements of drivers to determine all sources of potential liability. The accident could have been caused by a defective part on the truck or from it not being maintained properly by a service technician. The accident could have been caused due to company policy, either the truck company or from the company of the goods the truck was carrying. There are many potential theories of liability in these cases. Having an experienced attorney can help you make sure you explore every option and maximize recovery.
Truck accidents also can create unique insurance situations. Commercial vehicle companies can be self-insured instead of carrying a commercial liability insurance policy. There may be multiple insurance policies or multiple self-insured companies responsible for payment if a truck is liable for your accident. It is a complex process and can be overwhelming if you aren’t familiar with the way these companies protect themselves in the event of these accidents.
Every truck accident case is different. I can’t tell you how much money you are going to recover at our first consultation or how long the process is going to take. I do know from experience general timeframes and guidelines that may be applicable to your case. But the best thing I can provide is knowledge and comfort that someone is going to be with you every step of the way doing everything they can to help you get the best possible recovery for your case. If you have suffered an injury after an accident with a big truck on Atlanta roads, call or text me today at 678-753-6431 or e-mail me at ryan@ryanwalshlegal.com. I would love to discuss your situation and see if I can provide advice or assistance.