Trucking accidents in Georgia can result in serious injuries and fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. However, not all truck accidents are the same. Two common types involve semi-trucks (18-wheelers) and box trucks (straight trucks). While both vehicles can cause significant damage, the legal approach to these kinds of cases differ.
Semi-Trucks (18-Wheelers, Tractor-Trailers, Big Rigs)
A semi-truck consists of a tractor unit (cab) and a detachable trailer, usually with 18 wheels. These trucks are primarily used for long-distance hauling, transporting goods across states or major highways.
- Size & Weight: Can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded.
- Uses: Cross-country freight transport, large-scale deliveries.
- Common Locations: Highways, interstates, major roadways.
Box Trucks (Straight Trucks, Delivery Trucks, Cube Vans)
A box truck has a single rigid frame, meaning the cargo area is permanently attached to the cab. These trucks are commonly used for short-distance deliveries and local transportation.
- Size & Weight: Weighs between 10,000 and 33,000 pounds, depending on classification.
- Uses: Local deliveries, moving services, retail shipments.
- Common Locations: Urban streets, neighborhoods, city roads.
Causes of Accidents
| Factor | Semi-Trucks | Box Trucks |
| Driver Fatigue | Common in long-haul trips due to hours of service violations. | Less common, as trips are shorter. |
| Wide Turns | Requires large clearance to turn, often leading to squeeze-play accidents. | Smaller turning radius but can still cause curb-hopping crashes. |
| Braking Distance | Needs longer stopping distances, increasing rear-end collision risks. | Stops more quickly but still needs more distance than passenger cars. |
| Blind Spots | Large blind spots on all sides, especially in the “no-zone” areas. | Fewer blind spots but still has limited rear visibility. |
| Cargo-Related Accidents | Improperly loaded trailers can cause rollovers or shifting loads. | Overloaded trucks may tip over but less likely to have shifting cargo. |
| Roadway Suitability | Designed for highways but dangerous in urban settings. | More maneuverable, but often in congested city traffic. |
Severity of Accidents
- Semi-truck accidents tend to be more severe, often resulting in fatalities or catastrophic injuries due to the truck’s weight and size. Collisions with semi-trucks can lead to multi-vehicle pileups on highways.
- Box truck accidents may also result in serious injuries given the vehicle’s heavy size, but the impact is generally less severe than with an 18-wheeler due to the truck’s smaller mass. However, box trucks are more common in pedestrian and cyclist accidents in urban areas and often result in fatalities if colliding with pedestrian or cyclists.
Liability and Insurance
Liability in semi-truck and box truck accidents differs based on regulations and insurance coverage.
Federal vs. State Regulations
- Semi-trucks are subject to federal regulations under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), including strict rules on driver hours, truck maintenance, and cargo weight limits.
- Box trucks often operate under state regulations, especially if used for local deliveries. Some box truck companies do not fall under FMCSA oversight unless they cross state lines or meet certain weight thresholds.
Insurance Coverage
- Semi-trucks require higher insurance limits (typically $750,000 to $5 million) due to the potential for catastrophic damage.
- Box trucks usually carry lower insurance coverage (starting at $300,000 to $1 million), which may impact compensation for victims.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
| Liable Party | Semi-Truck Accidents | Box Truck Accidents |
| Truck Driver | Liable for negligence (speeding, fatigue, DUI). | Liable for reckless driving or inattention. |
| Trucking Company | Responsible for poor hiring practices, lack of training, or pushing drivers to exceed hours of service. | Liable if the company owns and maintains the box truck fleet. |
| Cargo Loaders | Liable if improper loading leads to a crash (e.g., shifting cargo). | Less common but possible in cases of overloading. |
| Truck Manufacturer | Liable for defective brakes, tires, or steering systems. | Liable for manufacturing defects affecting safety. |
Legal Considerations
Statute of Limitations
In Georgia, truck accident victims generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the accident involves a government-owned truck (such as USPS delivery trucks), the deadline may be shorter.
Comparative Negligence Rule
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If the victim is found less than 50% at fault, they can recover damages. If they are 50% or more at fault, they cannot recover compensation.
Hire an Attorney for Trucking Accidents in Atlanta, Macon, Georgia
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Georgia, contact a personal injury attorney to secure the compensation that you deserve.
For more information about the McArthur Law Firm or to set up a free consultation to learn what we may be able to do to help you with your trucking accident case, give us a call at one of our offices in Georgia or fill out our online contact form.
- Atlanta Office: 404-565-1621
- Macon Office: 478-238-6600
