Atlanta Truck Accident Attorneys
In 2010, over 500,000 large truck and commercial vehicles were involved in accidents; with over 100,000 people sustaining serious injuries, and over 5,000 people dying in these crashes. This number is continuing to rise, with an expected 20% increase in the number of trucks taking to our highways in 2012. In fact, the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure recently agreed to legislation that will study whether larger trucks should be allowed on our roadways.
Many people mistakenly think a trucking accident is similar to a car accident. However, the trucking industry is regulated by specific laws, and knowledge of those laws is imperative to a successful outcome for the semi-truck accident victim.
FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO TRUCKING ACCIDENTS
A number of factors routinely contribute to trucking accidents, with many of them falling into the category of negligent or careless conduct. Some of the more common factors include:
- Violation of traffic laws – speeding, running red lights, or following too close (i.e. failure to maintain proper distance).
- Driver error – fatigue, distractions, intoxication.
- Equipment failure – truck not properly maintained.
- Road conditions – poor weather, road construction, or debris.
- Road design – defects in the way a road is designed or marked for truck travel.
- Inadequate training – driver did not receive enough training, or did not continue to update knowledge.
- Overloaded freight – truck is carrying more freight than safe.
One of the most critical factors in truck accident cases is the need to have a timely and thorough investigation of the accident facts, driver, and trucking company. Otherwise important information may be lost. For example, pursuant to federal regulations, the truck driver’s log may be destroyed after six months if specific actions are not taken to preserve the information. This is one of the reasons it is so important to consult with an attorney that specializes in tractor-trailer accidents.
HIRE A KNOWLEDGEABLE TRUCK ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
Almost immediately after a serious accident involving a truck, the trucking company’s claims adjuster begins to protect the trucking company’s interest. Their job is to collect evidence in order to defend or minimize your claim. It is hard for someone unfamiliar with the trucking industry and federal trucking regulations to be able to piece together all the relevant details, and determine whether a truck driver or trucking company was in compliance with all regulations or guilty of some sort of negligence. Don’t attempt to take on the trucking company and their adjusters and attorneys alone.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a truck, call the law office of Randy Scott Slater, P.C. at (404) 888-0500. We handle cases across Georgia, including Atlanta, Macon, Savannah, Athens, Albany, and Columbus. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case, and you pay no fees unless we resolve your case through verdict or settlement.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]