Frequently Asked Questions about Truck Accidents in Georgia
Truck accidents are complicated and devastating events. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident, you likely have many questions about what to do next. Who was at fault for the accident? Who pays for medical bills? Do I need to talk to insurance companies?
At Embry Law Truck Accidents, our clients and potential clients often have questions like these. Unfortunately, you may not get the answers you need from insurance companies or even a lawyer that does not handle truck accident claims. That’s why we are here to help.
FAQs about Truck Accidents in Georgia
We have compiled a list of some of the most common questions we receive about truck accidents, along with answers to help you get started learning more.
Q: What is a “commercial truck”?
A: A commercial truck is any vehicle that transports commercial goods. Often, commercial trucks are large trucks like big rigs, semis, or tractor-trailers. Commercial truck drivers must have a specialized commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate these vehicles.
Q: Why are truck accidents more serious than car accidents?
A: Truck accidents are much more serious than many other car accidents due to the size and weight of the truck. A fully-loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. This weight, size, and the force of that much weight moving can be catastrophically damaging to nearby vehicles, people, and structures.
Q: What are the common causes of truck accidents in Georgia?
A: Truck accidents happen on Georgia roadways for a number of reasons. Among the most common causes that we see among clients with truck accident claims:
- Speeding
- Distracted Driving
- Driving Under the Influence
- Truck Driver Fatigue
- Inadequate Driver Training
- Improper Cargo Loading
- Mechanical Failures
Q: Who was at fault for my truck accident?
A: Determining fault after an accident can only be done via a thorough examination of all aspects of the accident. In the case of truck accidents, there may be more than one party at fault, depending on the circumstances. Those that may be held liable include:
- Truck Driver
- Truck Driver Employer
- Trucking Company
- Company that Loaded Cargo
- Truck Mechanic
- Truck Part Manufacturer
Q: What if I was partially at fault? Can I still recover any compensation?
A: Determining what sort of compensation you may be entitled to can also only be done after a thorough investigation into your claim and anyone who was at fault. If you were partially at fault for the truck accident, you can sometimes still pursue compensation, but your settlement or award amount will be less. For example, if the court finds that you were 10% at fault, your compensation may be reduced by 10%.
Q: What kind of compensation can I pursue?
A: In a truck accident claim, you can pursue compensation for damages that you have suffered, and that you can prove you have suffered, as a result of the accident. Such damages may include:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Loss of Earning Capacity
- Pain and Suffering
- Property Damage
Q: Why should I contact a lawyer?
A: Truck accident lawyers have specific expertise and experience in handling truck accident cases. This gives you the best opportunity for a favorable outcome. A skilled truck accident lawyer will carefully review your situation and determine if you have a claim. Then, they will stand by you during negotiations, or at trial if necessary. During the lawsuit process, your lawyer will communicate with other parties involved so you can focus on recovering.
Not sure where to start? Start by contacting us, Embry Law Truck Accidents, to discuss your truck accident questions and potential case. We offer a free consultation to every potential client, so you have nothing to lose.
