When someone mentions a truck accident, it can be difficult to know what exactly that means. After all, there are numerous types of trucks that travel on Georgia roadways. When it comes to truck accident claims, generally that means larger, heavier trucks like 18-wheelers, dump trucks, tow trucks, or logging trucks.
These types of trucks are larger, heavier, and carry extremely heavy, and sometimes awkward, loads. If you are involved in an accident with one of these beasts of the road, you could find yourself with injuries and extensive property damage.
A Guide to Georgia Truck Accident Claims
If you are involved in a truck accident, there are some important things to note about the claims process and your legal rights.
Liability for Truck Accidents
In many accidents, it is easy to determine who was responsible. For example, a driver makes a mistake that causes the accident, or there was a vehicle malfunction. But in truck accidents, liability is a little more complicated. That’s because there may be more than one party liable for an accident.
For example, if a truck driver was breaking the law when they caused an accident, they may be liable. However, their supervisor or the trucking company may also be liable because, it can be argued, they were not properly supervising the driver, did not provide adequate training, or were negligent in hiring the driver to begin with. There are also cases where a trucking company is negligent by not keeping their truck properly maintained. You can learn more about this here.
What You Need to Support Your Claim
Unlike an accident with another passenger vehicle, there are several things you need from a truck driver or company to support your claims. These include:
- Truck Driver Logs
- Truck Driver Toxicology Reports
- Employment and Driving Records
- Truck Electronic Data Recorder Logs
- Truck Inspection Reports
- Load Manifest
You will still need basic information like a police report, witness testimony, and medical records. But as you can see, there are more unique aspects to truck accidents that make cases a bit more complicated.
Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer
Because truck accident claims are more complicated, it is a good idea to hire a truck accident lawyer to assist you in getting compensation. A truck accident lawyer can help you in the following ways:
- Investigating the cause of the accident
- Determining who is liable
- Determining the exact cost of your losses
- Ensuring your legal rights are protected
- Filing your claims
- Pursuing a negotiated settlement
- Preparing for trial, if necessary
Complex auto accident cases are difficult to manage on your own. You can bet that the trucking company will have legal representation to fight your claims. The best way to ensure your legal rights are protected is to have a truck accident lawyer on your side.
The Claims Process
Once you have built your case and filed a truck accident claim, you can expect the following:
- The insurance company will offer you a settlement
- OR, the insurance company will deny your claim
If the insurance company low-balls your claim or denies it, it is important to appeal with the help of your lawyer. Often, auto accident claims are successfully settled, but truck accident claims may require more time and effort.
Talk to a Truck Accident Lawyer for Free
The information provided above is a general guide and important information that applies to most truck accident cases. However, every case is different and requires an individualized approach. That’s why it’s best to work with a skilled truck accident lawyer to resolve your case and get the compensation you deserve.