ATHENS, GEORGIA TRUCK ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS
GET THE COMPENSATION YOU DESERVE FOR YOUR 18 WHEELER OR TRACTOR TRAILER WRECK.
The National Traffic Safety Board (NTSB) reports that there is an average of 23,000 truck accidents every year in the United States. A large number of these collisions result in serious injuries or fatalities. 18 wheeler tractor trailer wrecks aren't just big car wrecks. When an 80,000 pound tractor-trailer collides with a 5,000 pound car the force equation likely means the injuries are worse. Often these wrecks are not just "carelessness," but sleep deprived drivers in violation of federal hour or safety regulations. These violations can be the result of trucking companies putting profit over safety.
In fact, the NTSB reports that 30-40% of documented crashes with a tractor trailer are due to driver fatigue. Those numbers are most likely even higher as police reports tend to not include this information. Other accident causes are distracted driving, mechanical failure, and human error; tractor trailers have much more force behind them when compared to a car, so they are not able to stop as quickly. Sometimes drivers may misjudge distance and cause a crash. This can be due to impairment from exhaustion. Reaction times become much slower the more tired someone becomes.
Truck Accident Injuries
Specific injuries from truck accidents vary depending on circumstances and type of accident. A driver in a car may suffer head trauma, facial fractures, internal bleeding, or serious back injuries from a collision. More minor injuries would include road rash and minor spinal cord trauma. If you’ve been in an accident with an 18-wheeler, you may be more likely to experience serious crush injuries due to your vehicle having sustained significant damage. Regardless of how you were injured or what type of crash caused it, talk to someone about your injury — you may have a right to compensation beyond what your insurer offers.
It is important to remember that your injuries may not always be physical. You can suffer mental trauma as well such as depression, anxiety, and even PTSD from an accident. This sort of trauma may also be compensated for with help from a lawyer. Any injuries sustained in an accident are important to address as medical bills can pile up for something you did not cause. That’s why it is important to contact an attorney immediately after an accident.
Time is of the essence in a truck wreck case and you need an attorney quickly before the evidence helpful to your case gets destroyed. Sometimes trucking companies would rather destroy the records than let them see the light of day in a courtroom. Delay allows the companies to destroy records and escape accountability. Let the Attorneys at Norris Injury Law fight for you and your family.
What We Do
At Norris Injury Law, we know that car accidents can have serious and lasting effects on victims and their families. We will manage every step of your case so you can focus on your recovery and not worry about other details. You’ll be in good hands with us, as our team has years of combined experience handling cases just like yours. Our lawyers are dedicated to helping you get fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
We will work on compiling evidence for your case as quickly as possible to ensure that all evidence is safe and preserved. We’ll also make sure you have a strong claim against any liable parties, such as truck drivers or manufacturers of defective parts. If necessary, we’ll file a lawsuit in court to help you get what you deserve from those who caused your accident. Car accidents are serious events that can result in serious injuries, but there are many things you can do after an accident to protect yourself legally and financially — most importantly is to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident.
A truck accident lawyer in Athens, Georgia from Norris Injury Law is there to help you through each step of your case, from gathering evidence to bringing a lawsuit. There are several different roles that a lawyer can play in a trucking accident case. First, a lawyer will find out if you have a valid claim by investigating whether or not fault lies with another party. A trucking accident attorney can also offer legal advice, including guidance on how much compensation to seek, and they will communicate with your insurance company and any involved parties on your behalf. Finally, in some cases, you may need an attorney present at mediation or arbitration meetings where damage amounts are discussed and decided upon. Your lawyer will inform you of any upcoming meetings so that you can make arrangements to attend as necessary.
If you were hurt in a truck accident, it’s important to speak to a truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA promptly. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and other damages that resulted from the accident. A lawyer can help you file a timely lawsuit and protect your legal rights. If you, or someone you know, has been involved in a truck accident, reach out to truck accident lawyers in Athens, GA at Norris Injury Law immediately!
Common Truck Driving Distractions
Driver distraction is one of the most common causes of truck accidents. When truck drivers aren’t completely focused on the road ahead, they are more likely to cause accidents. Here are the most common truck driving distractions:
- Using a smartphone. Truck drivers often spend long hours on the road and become lonely or bored. As such, they may send text messages or talk on the phone with their family members and friends as they drive. Unfortunately, using a smartphone while behind the wheel takes a driver’s hands and attention off the road ahead, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Eating or drinking. Truck drivers are often pressed for time. If they’re behind schedule in their deliveries, they may not have enough time to sit down at a restaurant and eat a meal. Instead, they eat or drink as they drive. Drinking and eating requires a truck driver to take his or her hands off the wheel. This can lead to vehicle crashes.
- Daydreaming. Truck driving can be a stressful career. As such, many truck drivers can’t help but get lost in their own thoughts as they’re behind the wheel. They may think about whether they will make their deliveries on time or when they can see their family next. As a truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA can confirm, this can cause truck drivers to lose focus and get into accidents.
- Reaching for or adjusting items. Truck drivers may try to reach for various objects in their truck, like a smartphone or cup, or adjust the radio station. Unfortunately, this can cause truck drivers to lose control of their vehicle.
Why You Should Speak With a Truck Accident Lawyer Right Away
One of the most important things you can do following an accident with a semi-truck is to contact the Norris Injury Law team. It’s not a good idea to try to handle this type of legal matter on your own. There are at least five reasons why working with a truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA, is in your best interests.
1. To Avoid Making Costly Mistakes
You can’t afford to feel your way around truck accident lawsuits. The process is complicated whether you need to file a claim with your insurance company, deal with another insurance company or take the other driver to court. Any mistakes can severely affect the amount of compensation you receive or make you miss your opportunity to sue. Instead, let a truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA, guide you through the process from beginning to end.
2. To Protect Your Interests
Getting the compensation you deserve isn’t the only thing you have to think about in cases of truck accidents. You also have to protect your finances from lawsuits by other drivers or passengers. Speaking with a truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA, is essential. We can advise you on things to do and things to avoid. For example, you should never talk with the other driver’s insurance company.
3. To Take Care of Your Health
Given how devastating truck accidents can be, it’s not surprising to have expensive medical bills from treatments. A truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA can help in several ways. First, we can help you avoid common stalling tactics that insurance companies use to get out of paying. You need compensation as soon as possible.
We can also let you know what is included in any settlement offers from the insurance company, transportation company or the driver. That way, you can make sure the amount covers your needs. Taking your time to consider how much compensation you deserve is important because you may have injuries that haven’t shown up yet.
4. To Care for Your Family
Has a truck accident made you lose wages from work, lose your job or lose your ability to work in the same field? Then it’s also important to discuss your family’s needs with our law team at Norris Injury Law. We can include compensation for these economic, physical and emotional damages in your lawsuit.
Let our team handle these legal matters for you. Let us put together a strong case while you focus on your recovery. You're in excellent hands.
4 Post-Accident Steps To Protect Your Case
Though you may be concerned for the other drivers involved in your trucking accident, it’s important that you take care of yourself and protect your accident case. The first few moments after a crash can be chaotic, especially when serious injuries are involved. You need to ensure your physical health and the integrity of your accident claim. These steps will help your truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA move forward with your case.
1. Report the Accident
Never leave the scene of the accident; it’s illegal when deaths, vehicle damage or injury have occurred. The accident needs to be reported, and you can do this by calling 911. The likelihood of serious medical injuries increases when semi-trucks are involved, so getting medical help and the authorities on the scene as soon as possible is important.
2. Preserve the Scene
Put on your hazards lights to help alert others on the road to the accident. It’s recommended that you don’t move any vehicles to help preserve the scene. You can use your phone to take photos of the crash, the surrounding, the weather and other important details the attorneys at Norris Injury Law could use in your case. This can help preserve the scene. The responding police officer will also document the scene and fill out a report. You will need to give a copy of this to your truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA.
3. Get Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured, it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as you can after the accident. Some injuries and pain can be masked by the post-accident adrenaline rush. Failing to seek treatment right away could impact the validity of a potential injury compensation claim. If the accident occurs while driving for an employer, be sure to check on which doctors are included in a worker compensation plan.
4. Gather Information
While you are on the scene, get as much information as you can from the other driver, passengers or any witnesses. Ask the other driver for his or her name, contact information (phone number and email address), insurance information with the policy number and their driver’s license number. Talk to anyone who was around at the time of the accident. Take notes of what they say and ask if they would be willing to make a formal statement. If so, take their name and contact information as well.
With this insight, you can help Norris Injury Law, a truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA, protect your accident claim. A few simple steps go a long way.
Athens Truck Accident Law FAQs
What causes truck accidents?
There are many contributing factors that can cause a truck accident, as our Athens, Georgia truck accident lawyers have uncovered. Some examples where a truck driver or the trucking company may be liable for the accident include driving while fatigued, distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, failing to drive properly based on road and weather conditions, driving recklessly or speeding, negligent hiring by trucking company, failing to train drivers adequately, failing to enforce break periods, and more. Our team at Norris Injury Law can investigate further to uncover all the contributing factors of the accident.
Why do truck drivers drive fatigued?
Truck drivers are often put under a strict schedule and feel the pressure to meet the demands that their employer is requiring of them. Commercial trucks do carry produce and materials that we need all across the country. But despite their contribution, many trucking companies are just focused on getting the delivery to the destination as quickly as possible. As a result, a trucker may miss out on much needed rest or drive too long behind the wheel, and then become seriously fatigued where an accident is more likely to happen.
How can I prevent being in a truck accident?
There are some things that car drivers can do to help reduce the chances of being in an accident with a large commercial truck. As our Athens truck accident lawyers suggest, it's always a good idea to drive defensively, keep your attention on the road at all times, remain safely within speed limits, and allow a truck as much space as they need. Never tailgate behind a truck, and do not change lanes closely in front of them, as the trucker may not have enough time or space to halt if a sudden change or road conditions were to occur.
Are there types of compensation am I eligible for?
There are many different types of damages that you may be eligible for if you are in an accident with a commercial truck and the trucker was mostly at-fault. Examples of damages you may receive include repayment for property damage, loss of earnings, medical bills, pain and suffering, disability, loss of enjoyment of life, and more. Depending on the factors of the accident, there may be more than one party who is liable. For instance, the truck driver may have been speeding at the time of the collision, but the brakes may have needed replacing, which means the party responsible for truck maintenance could share liability.
When is the right time to have a lawyer help me?
If you were involved in a commercial truck accident, then the time to contact a lawyer is right now. The more time that you wait, the less evidence that will be readily available. Additionally, do not accept a settlement offer from an insurance company, as this amount is likely to be only a fraction of what your total losses are. By hiring a legal team shortly after the truck accident, you can have your best interest protected from the start. Our Athens truck accident lawyers from Norris Injury Law are ready to come to your aid.
What to Do If You Were Injured in a Truck Accident
Getting injured in a truck accident can be a shocking and frightening experience. However, it’s important to keep your cool and take the necessary steps to obtain compensation for your injuries. Begin by seeking medical attention, even if you don’t feel too bad after the accident.
It’s also important to discuss your case in detail with a qualified truck accident lawyer. He or she can help you gather evidence, identify witnesses and negotiate with the insurance company.
Schedule a consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Athens, GA today. At Norris Injury Law, our lawyers are ready to help you.
Truck Accidents: Insights From Norris Injury Law
At Norris Injury Law, we understand the complexities that follow a truck accident. Our Truck Accident Lawyers in Athens, GA team is dedicated to providing valuable insights and guidance to individuals in Athens, GA, who may find themselves dealing with the aftermath of such incidents. In this listicle, we share key considerations to help you make informed decisions during challenging times.
Understanding The Severity Of Truck Accidents:
- Truck accidents can result in severe injuries and damages due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. At Norris Injury Law, we emphasize the importance of recognizing the potential gravity of these incidents, seeking immediate medical attention, and preserving crucial evidence for any potential legal action.
Determining Liability In Truck Accidents:
- Identifying the party at fault in a truck accident is crucial for pursuing a successful claim. Our experienced attorneys at Norris Injury Law specialize in investigating truck accidents, analyzing factors such as driver negligence, trucking company responsibility, and potential third-party liability to determine who is legally accountable.
Navigating The Unique Challenges Of Truck Accident Cases:
- Truck accident cases present unique challenges compared to other motor vehicle accidents. Norris Injury Law is well-versed in the complexities of these cases, from understanding federal trucking regulations to addressing issues related to driver fatigue, improper maintenance, or cargo violations. Our guidance ensures a comprehensive approach to your case.
The Role Of Insurance Companies In Truck Accident Claims:
- Dealing with insurance companies after a truck accident can be daunting. Truck Accident Lawyers in Athens, GA from Norris Injury Law advise individuals to exercise caution during interactions with insurance adjusters, ensuring that their rights are protected. Our team can handle negotiations on your behalf, aiming to secure fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Comprehensive Evaluation Of Damages:
- Truck accidents often result in extensive damages, including medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages. Norris Injury Law conducts a thorough evaluation of your damages, considering both current and future costs. This comprehensive approach ensures that the compensation sought is fair and aligns with your needs.
Taking Legal Action:
- When necessary, Norris Injury Law guides individuals through the process of taking legal action after a truck accident. Filing a lawsuit may become essential to secure just compensation. Our experienced litigators are prepared to advocate for your rights in court, holding the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Support Throughout The Legal Process:
- Norris Injury Law is committed to providing support throughout the entire legal process. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, our team ensures that you are informed, empowered, and well-represented. We prioritize your well-being and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.
In challenging times following a truck accident, having a dedicated legal team on your side can make a significant difference. Norris Injury Law is here to guide you through the complexities of truck accident cases, offering support and guidance every step of the way. Contact us today for a confidential consultation with Truck Accident Lawyers in Athens, GA you can trust. Let Norris Injury Law be your trusted partner in navigating truck accident challenges in Athens, GA.
Client Review
"Blaine is one of the most knowledgeable and caring professionals I have ever met. He has been very helpful to me and several of our clients. I would highly recommend Blaine and his firm."
Zack J.
