Even with defensive driving, trucking accidents can still happen and affect your life, resulting in severe injuries, costly repairs, missed work, and legal issues. That’s why you need a truck accident attorney who understands your situation and can fight for your rights.
At Flanagan Law, we have the expertise to help you get the best possible outcome for your case. First, let’s go over the steps you need to take right after a truck accident.
Steps to Take Right After a Truck Accident
We know it’s not easy being involved in a truck accident, and it’s normal to feel unsure about what to do next. As your truck accident attorneys, we’re here to help you handle these steps with ease in Atlanta, Georgia.
- Call the Police First: It’s important to call the police to the scene. They’ll make an official report, which is important for everything that comes next.
- Check Your Health: Even if you’re feeling okay, a quick medical check-up is important. It’s all about making sure you’re alright and getting any injuries on record.
- Capture the Scene: Whip out your phone and take some photos of the accident. Pictures of your vehicle, the truck, and the surrounding area can be really useful down the line.
- Contact Your Insurance: Contact your insurance. They need to know what happened, and they’ll provide help with what to do next.
- Talk to Our Lawyer: Truck accidents can get complicated. Contacting our lawyer will help you understand your legal standing.
Who is Responsible for the Truck Accident?
After a truck accident, a key question is figuring out who’s at fault. Let’s break down what this could mean for you:
- Truck Driver Liability: The truck driver might be held liable in certain situations, like speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue.
- Trucky Company: Sometimes the trucking company is responsible, especially if issues like insufficient training or poor truck maintenance played a role in the accident.
- Manufacturer and Road Conditions: If the truck’s failure or unsafe road conditions caused the accident, the manufacturer or government agencies could be held accountable.
In Georgia, the comparative negligence law plays a role in how compensation is determined, based on your percentage of fault for the accident.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
If you’re hit by a tractor-trailer, dealing with insurance companies can be daunting. Initially, you may be contacted by the trucking company’s insurer. It’s important to be cautious—they aim to minimize payouts.
Avoid giving detailed statements or accepting early settlement offers without understanding the full extent of your damages. Remember, what you say can impact your claim.
A lawyer can be invaluable here. They’ll communicate on your behalf, ensuring you don’t settle for less than you deserve. As experienced negotiators, they’ll help you receive a settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Expert Legal Representation With a Personal Touch
If you’re dealing with a truck accident in Georgia, you don’t have to face it alone. At Flanagan Law, we specialize in car and truck accidents, and we’re ready to help you with your case. Schedule a free consultation today to get started. We’ll review your case, identify who’s responsible, and help explain your legal options. We’ll handle the insurance companies and, if needed, represent you in court.
