By: Lindsey Macon, GA truck accident lawyer and Partner at McArthur Law Firm (MLF)
An attorney handling truck accidents in Atlanta must have a thorough understanding of federal rules, truck technology, and legal skills. Truck accident cases are more complex than regular car accident cases. Hiring a skilled trucking accident lawyer can increase the chances of receiving higher compensation.
It is vital to hire a firm with extensive knowledge of federal regulations to protect your claim by holding large trucking companies accountable. Atlanta truck accident lawyers possess specific knowledge of the laws and regulations governing truck accidents, enabling them to help clients understand their rights and secure the compensation they deserve.
Many victims of tractor trailer wrecks have massive medical expenses and experience extreme pain and suffering in many instances, as might be expected. Commercial vehicles, when fully loaded, are legally allowed to transport up to 80,000 pounds or 40 tons of goods.
Navigating the demanding and complex process of a wrongful death truck accident requires a full understanding of both Georgia civil litigation laws and relevant federal regulations. Identifying all responsible parties, collecting key physical and photographic evidence, and claiming the full and correct amount of compensation that is due are essential tasks for us to pay out to our client.
Led by Kathy McArthur, tractor trailer accident attorney in Georgia since 1980, has been at the helm of the ship navigating many dozens of trucking crashes for her clients. The 2024 Super Lawyers Cover Story attorney will not accept less than a claim is worth and recommends that clients demand their trial by jury in order to get what they deserve.
Why You Need a Truck Accident Attorney in Atlanta
Truck accident attorneys in Atlanta can help fight against insurance companies and strive to get maximum compensation for victims. Skilled legal professionals are necessary to navigate the legal complexities of commercial truck claims and ensure that our victims receive fair compensation.
Hiring an attorney increases the likelihood of securing a higher settlement amount as insurance companies are more willing to negotiate fairly and thereby ensure recovering the full compensation for that claimant. A truck accident attorney in Atlanta will review options, navigate complex legal processes and provide help to identify the best path to receive compensation.
The primary goal of a truck accident lawyer in Georgia is to ensure fair treatment for victims and achieve full compensation for injuries sustained in truck accidents. Georgia truck injury lawyer Michael Thompson is another McArthur Law Firm attorney at our semi-truck accident law firm, who has assisted our clients obtain the full measure of damages owed to them. Counting all office locations, MLF currently has 8 truck wreck attorneys to assist our new clients.
Consult with a Georgia truck accident attorney at MLF specializing in truck accidents to navigate the complexities and protect your rights. The primary goal of a truck accident lawyer in Georgia is to ensure fair treatment for victims and achieve full compensation for injuries sustained in truck accidents.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Atlanta
Various factors, including driver-related issues like fatigue and speeding, as well as mechanical and loading failures, can cause truck accidents in Atlanta.
Below is a short list of some most common causes of 18 wheeler crashes in Atlanta, Georgia.
- Truck driver fatigue due to long hours on the road impairs judgment and reaction time, leading to truck accidents in Atlanta.
- Distracted driving is a leading cause of truck accidents in Atlanta, with activities like checking phones or adjusting the radio contributing significantly.
- Speeding is a common cause of truck accidents in Atlanta, as trucks require more time and distance to stop compared to smaller vehicles.
- Aggressive driving behaviors like following too closely and weaving through traffic are frequent causes of truck accidents in Atlanta.
- Faulty (or skipped) maintenance of the safety systems on trucks, such as neglected brakes or overdue tire replacements. When these occur, they can cause mechanical failures that can lead to truck accidents in or near Atlanta, Georgia.
How an Atlanta Truck Accident Attorney Can Help
- Experienced truck accident lawyers assist victims by investigating the crash, collecting crucial evidence, and representing plaintiffs during insurance negotiations or trials.
- Lawyers gather and handle crucial evidence such as black box data, logbooks, and witness statements, which are pivotal in building a strong case.
- An experienced lawyer can handle complex insurance company tactics, aiming to minimize claims and secure fair compensation for the victims.
- About 90% of injury cases get resolved during the negotiation phase, but our attorneys at MLF are prepared to let the jury that we helped select put a number on the correct dollar amount of damages, when necessary.
- If you need to file a claim by hiring an accident lawyer in Atlanta, our commercial truck wreck attorneys (and supporting staff members) are trained and ready to be that attorney for truck accident justice, following a truck crash with our client’s vehicle.
Gathering Crucial Evidence
- Securing the key evidence is crucial for your trucking accident lawyer Atlanta to be able to build a strong case for assigning blame and establishing the big rig company’s fault in a truck accident case.
- Crucial evidence includes police reports, photos, medical records, and witness testimonies.
- Atlanta truck accident lawyers gather critical evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and electronic data from the truck’s black box to support the victim’s claim.
- Black box data is critical for proving driver behavior in court. Accessing a truck’s black box data after an accident can be difficult but not impossible. It is crucial to act quickly as some black boxes erase all data within 30 days. Seeking immediate legal counsel can help preserve the evidence.
- Logbook entries can reveal if drivers exceed the maximum driving hours and can establish negligence or intentional misconduct. Associate Holly Stephens came to work at McArthur Law Firm after working for a trial court judge in Texas, which is the state with the nation’s largest number of trucking accidents.
Navigating Insurance Claims
- Navigating insurance claims after a truck accident is challenging due to the large insurance policies involved for commercial trucks and the aggressive tactics used by insurance companies to minimize claims.
- A truck accident lawyer intervenes to steer victims through the insurance claims process, uncover actual insurance coverage, and negotiate for full compensation. They are familiar with insurance company tactics and can develop strategies to protect the victim’s rights.
- Experienced truck accident lawyers handle negotiations with insurance companies, understanding their tactics to minimize settlements, and fight for fair compensation on behalf of the victim.
- It’s crucial to consult with a Georgia personal injury lawyer before speaking with the insurance company to protect your rights and best interests. Engaging in discussions with insurance company representatives without legal advice should be avoided.
- Lawyers ensure that victims receive fair settlements that cover medical bills, lost wages, and other losses.
Preparing for Litigation
- Georgia truck accident lawyers must be ready to take the case to trial to ensure justice for truck accident victims.
- Most truck accident cases do not end in court.
- Attorneys strategize whether to seek a settlement or take the case to trial, ensuring they properly manage every aspect of litigation.
- Attorneys may use technology tools such as 3D imaging software and drones for aerial surveillance to create detailed representations of the collision.
- A skilled truck accident attorney in Georgia can expertly navigate the trial process where punitive damages may become a possibility.
Identifying Liable Parties in Truck Accidents
- Determining liability in truck accident cases in Georgia can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, and manufacturer.
- Several at-fault parties can be responsible for a truck accident in Atlanta.
- The truck driver is the most common liable party in truck accidents.
- Truck drivers can be held liable if they violate laws or regulations, such as overloading cargo, driving under the influence, or ignoring sleep/rest requirements.
- The trucking company can be held liable under Georgia’s respondeat superior laws if their employed driver is found at fault for an accident.
- Trucking companies can also be liable for negligent hiring and supervision, such as failing to conduct proper background checks on drivers.
- The manufacturer also can be responsible for a truck accident in cases of manufacturer defects.
Choosing the Right Truck Accident Attorney in Atlanta
- Choosing the right lawyer is essential for a favorable outcome due to specialized knowledge and experience, as well as clear communication and client support.
- Look for a truck accident attorney with a successful track record in handling such cases and values clear communication and compassion.
- Ask about the lawyer’s experience with truck accident cases to gauge their ability to handle yours.
- Check the lawyer’s credentials and specialization in personal injury law, specifically in handling truck accident cases.
- Inquire whether the lawyer has a strong legal team and sufficient resources to manage your case effectively.
- Discuss the lawyer’s communication style and how they will keep you informed about your case.
- Clarify the lawyer’s fee structure, which is typically contingent on winning the case, to avoid any surprises.
- Request client references to gain insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and effectiveness from past clients.
Don’t Delay and Let Evidence Disappear: Contact Us Now for a No Cost Meeting
At MLF, we exclusively handle cases for clients who have suffered injuries or lost their lives due to the negligence of others. Our truck crash lawyers in Georgia offer legal services, conduct thorough investigations, and assist clients throughout their personal injury legal proceedings.
Our truck accident attorneys in Georgia provide legal aid, probe into cases, and navigate clients through their personal injury legal battles.
Obtain a FREE consultation with an experienced accident lawyer in Atlanta GA by calling the Atlanta number, 404-565-1621. You will be interviewed by an attorney from the McArthur Law Firm in Atlanta, Georgia, or at any of our two other law office sites. Additionally, if you are unable to leave your home, we can arrange to visit your location.
More Atlanta Truck Accident Resources
If you’d like to learn more about Atlanta truck accident lawyers, then read our informative articles below. We explore every aspect of truck accident lawyers in Atlanta so that we can answer any questions you might have.
- Truck Accident FAQs
- Dump Truck Accident
- Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers: Logging Truck Accidents in GA
- Farming Vehicle Accidents
- Multiple Negligent Parties In Truck Wrecks
- Truck Driver Error
- Trucking Company Negligence
- Deadliest Highways For Truck Accidents
- Truck Accident Laws in GA
- Macon Truck Accident Lawyer: GA Trucking Accident Attorneys
- Truck Accident Attorney: Macon Truck Accident Law Firm in GA
- Truck Accident Attorney Atlanta GA
- Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer: Trucking Accident Attorney
- Truck Accident Attorney: Semi-Truck Accident Attorney in GA
- Truck Crash Lawyer: Semi-Truck Accident Attorneys in Atlanta
- Truck Crash Attorney: 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer in Georgia
- GA Truck Accident Attorneys
