Commercial trucking accidents are not just bigger car accidents. Given the size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving them often result in more severe damages and injuries. While any traffic accident can be traumatic, the aftermath of a trucking accident in Georgia can be particularly overwhelming for victims. The key is understanding the nuances that set these accidents apart.

Complexities Surrounding Truck Accidents

When involved in an accident with a commercial truck, the situation is not as straightforward as with regular vehicles. There might be multiple parties at fault, including the driver, the trucking company, or even the vehicle’s manufacturer. Determining liability requires a comprehensive understanding of Georgia’s laws and the trucking industry’s standards. The sheer size of commercial trucks means that accidents often lead to serious injuries, sometimes even fatal. Victims might face broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or long-term disabilities. The medical bills, loss of wages, and rehabilitation costs can put immense financial and emotional strain on victims and their families.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Commercial Trucking Accident in Georgia

When involved in a commercial trucking accident in Georgia, it’s crucial to act promptly and wisely to ensure your safety and rights. Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow:

1. Prioritize Safety: Before anything else, check on the well-being of everyone involved. If anyone needs medical attention, call 911 immediately.
2. Document Everything: Take photographs of the accident scene, including the positions of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and damages. Additionally, gather details of the truck driver, witnesses, and others involved.
3. Contact the Police: Report the accident to the local police or state troopers. Make sure you obtain a copy of the police report, as it will be essential for any legal proceedings.
4. Seek Medical Attention: It’s crucial to consult with a medical professional, even if you believe you’re unharmed. Injuries can sometimes surface later, and a comprehensive medical report is invaluable for your claim.
5. Reach Out to Morain & Buckelew, LLC: We can help you create the correct documentation for filing an insurance claim, contact a knowledgeable attorney who’s familiar with Georgia’s trucking accident laws. We can ensure your rights are protected.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurer about the accident but avoid admitting fault or giving detailed statements without consulting your attorney first.

Remember, time is of the essence after an accident. Taking the right steps promptly can significantly impact your recovery and any potential legal proceedings.

How Georgia Law Can Protect You

Georgia law is structured with a deep understanding of the implications and complexities surrounding trucking accidents, and as such, offers robust protection for victims.

1. Negligence and Liability: In Georgia, the legal framework operates under a “fault system” for auto accidents, including those involving commercial trucks. If a truck driver or the trucking company acted negligently, leading to your injury, they can be held liable for damages. 
2. Compensation for Damages: The law not only covers tangible losses such as medical bills and property damage, but it also recognizes intangible damages. This means you can seek compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and even loss of companionship in tragic circumstances.
3. Comparative Negligence: Georgia follows the “modified comparative negligence” rule. Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you could still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. It’s crucial to understand that if you’re found to be 50% or more at fault, you won’t be eligible for any compensation.
4. Statute of Limitations: Georgia law stipulates a time frame within which you must file a lawsuit. For personal injury cases, this is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, exceptions might apply, so it’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly.
5. Insurance Companies: Often, trucking companies have hefty insurance policies. While these insurers might attempt to settle quickly, they might not always offer fair compensation. Georgia laws equip victims with rights to negotiate or even litigate if offers are unsatisfactory.

By aligning yourself with knowledgeable legal guidance familiar with Georgia’s laws, you can better navigate these provisions, ensuring that justice is served and your recovery is prioritized.

Why You Need Morain & Buckelew, LLC

Having an ally familiar with Georgia’s intricacies can make all the difference. At Morain & Buckelew, LLC, we understand the challenges that victims of truck accidents face. We are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. While the road to recovery might seem daunting, with the right guidance, it becomes manageable. The experienced team at Morain & Buckelew, LLC is just a call away. Let us help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us today at (404) 448-3146.