Accidents Involving Commercial Vehicles in Georgia

Imagine cruising along Atlanta’s highway, with the skyline painting a serene picture ahead. Suddenly, that tranquility is disrupted by the loud blare of a horn and the unmistakable silhouette of a commercial vehicle barreling down. With Georgia’s vibrant economy, commercial vehicles have become an integral part of our daily landscape. But with their increased presence comes a heightened risk of accidents, ones that can change lives in an instant.

Georgia’s Busy Highways and Commercial Vehicle Incidents 

Georgia, especially Atlanta, sees a significant number of commercial vehicles on its roads every day. From large tractor-trailers to delivery vans, these vehicles play a vital role in our economy. However, when accidents involve these commercial vehicles, the aftermath can be much more catastrophic due to their size and weight.

Potential Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents 

While accidents can result from a myriad of causes, those involving commercial vehicles often stem from driver fatigue, overloaded cargo, inadequate training, or poor vehicle maintenance. As these vehicles maneuver through Georgia’s bustling streets and highways, it’s essential to be aware of these potential hazards.

The Complex Nature of Commercial Vehicle Claims in Georgia 

When two personal vehicles collide, the process is relatively straightforward – each driver’s insurance company investigates and determines fault based on the available evidence. However, commercial vehicle accidents present a much more convoluted scenario. Here’s why:

1. Multiple Stakeholders Involved Commercial vehicles aren’t just representative of their drivers. Behind that large truck or delivery van are businesses, owners, and often, a chain of command. When an accident occurs, any of these entities could potentially hold some responsibility.

2. Varied Insurance Policies Commercial vehicles generally carry larger and more varied insurance policies compared to personal vehicles. These policies can cover the vehicle, the cargo, the driver, and even third-party liabilities. Each of these policies may have its own claims process, complicating matters further.

3. Employee vs. Independent Contractor The driver’s employment status can significantly influence liability. If the driver is an employee, the company might be held responsible under the legal principle of “respondeat superior,” which means employers are typically responsible for employees’ actions performed within their employment scope. But if the driver is an independent contractor, determining liability can be murkier, as companies might argue they don’t exercise control over them.

4. Third-Party Logistics Providers In today’s interconnected world, a single delivery might involve multiple companies. The truck might belong to one company, the driver might be an employee of a second company, and the goods being transported might belong to a third. Each of these entities could have some level of responsibility in the event of an accident.

5. Maintenance and Vehicle Faults If an accident occurs due to a vehicle defect or maintenance oversight, the company responsible for the vehicle’s upkeep or even the vehicle’s manufacturer could be brought into the liability picture.

Given these complexities, it’s not surprising that victims of commercial vehicle accidents in Georgia often feel overwhelmed. Without experienced legal guidance, they could miss out on the compensation they deserve or find themselves facing powerful corporations unprepared.

Your Rights After a Commercial Vehicle Accident

 If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle in Georgia, it’s crucial to understand your rights. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Remember, these cases often involve larger insurance policies, making the stakes higher for all involved parties.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

 Time is of the essence after a commercial vehicle accident in Georgia. Evidence can be lost, and witnesses’ memories can fade. Acting quickly ensures that all relevant data is preserved and strengthens your potential claim. It’s also worth noting that Georgia has a statute of limitations on personal injury claims, so don’t delay in seeking legal assistance.

How Morain & Buckelew, LLC Can Assist

 At Morain & Buckelew, LLC, we understand the intricacies of commercial vehicle accidents in Georgia. We’ve assisted numerous clients in untangling the complexities and securing the compensation they rightfully deserve. Our approach is client-centric, ensuring you’re supported and informed throughout the process.

If you’ve been affected by a commercial vehicle accident in Atlanta, Georgia, or its surroundings, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. We are here to help! Call us today at (404) 448-3146.