Thousands of trucks travel Georgia’s roads and highways, playing a vital role in the state’s economy by transporting the goods we use every day. These massive vehicles, although essential, can be involved in collisions that result in severe injuries, property damage, and, tragically, loss of life. Such tractor trailer accidents can be devastating, leaving victims unable to work and unsure of where to turn for compensation. If you or a loved one has been involved in one of these accidents due to a truck driver’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation.
Tractor Trailer Crash Statistics
Commercial trucks are several times heavier than even the largest passenger vehicles, meaning that accidents are more likely to cause serious or even deadly outcomes. When comparing Georgia to national trends, the outlook on truck accidents presents a mixed picture. On the positive side, trucking accidents in Georgia result in fewer fatal crashes compared to the national average. However, a concerning trend appears in the data when examining the fatality rates of occupants in passenger cars involved in these truck accidents, which surpass the national average by a significant margin. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), large trucks caused nearly 10% of Georgia’s fatal auto accidents in 2021, with 78% of the victims being in passenger vehicles.
Common Tractor Trailer Accident Causes
Commercial truck drivers should operate their vehicles in a safe manner. But when they operate such large vehicles negligently, the results can be deadly. Below are some of the most common trucking accident causes.
- Driver fatigue. Commercial truck drivers often spend long hours on the road which can lead to driver fatigue, impairing judgment and reaction times. Georgia’s extensive highways and interstates make long-haul trucking particularly prone to this issue.
- Excessive speeding. Excessive speed is a leading cause of all auto accidents in Georgia, including trucking accidents. Drivers may exceed speed limits or fail to adjust their truck’s speed to match road conditions, increasing the likelihood of losing control or being unable to stop.
- Distracted driving. A truck driver’s eyes should always be on the road. Distractions such as cell phone use, eating, or adjusting the radio can divert a driver’s attention, leading to dangerous situations. Georgia’s laws regarding distracted driving apply to all motorists, including truck drivers.
- Improper loading. Improperly loaded or overloaded trailers can cause instability, leading to rollovers or lost cargo. Georgia’s regulations on cargo securement aim to prevent such incidents but are not always followed.
- Mechanical failures. Equipment failures such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts can result from inadequate maintenance or manufacturing defects. When something goes wrong on the highway, there may not be any time to recover. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial for preventing these accidents.
- Weather conditions. Georgia weather runs the gamut from heavy rain to dense fog, which can reduce visibility and traction. Truck drivers must adjust their driving behavior accordingly to avoid accidents.
- Inexperienced or unqualified drivers. Hiring practices that overlook driver qualifications or training can result in accidents caused by inexperienced or unqualified drivers. Georgia’s licensing requirements aim to ensure drivers have the necessary skills and knowledge.
While these are some of the most common causes, they are not the only ways a truck driver may be negligent behind the wheel. If you have any questions, seek the advice of a Georgia attorney experienced in tractor trailer wreck lawsuits.
Who Is Liable After a Tractor Trailer Accident?
In the aftermath of a commercial truck accident in Georgia, identifying the parties to hold liable for your injuries is essential for pursuing compensation. Here’s a closer examination of the various people and entities that could bear responsibility:
- Truck driver. The driver is often the first party considered when determining liability in a commercial truck accident. Their actions, such as speeding, distracted driving, or violating traffic laws, directly contribute to the cause of the accident. However, an individual driver often doesn’t have the resources or insurance to cover significant damages.
- Trucking company. Trucking companies can be held liable for accidents if they engage in negligent hiring practices, fail to properly train or supervise the driver, or force drivers to follow an unrealistic delivery schedule that incentivizes speeding or unsafe driving behaviors.
- Cargo loaders. Improperly loaded or secured cargo can significantly impact a truck’s stability and maneuverability, increasing the risk of accidents. Cargo loaders may be liable if their negligence in loading or securing the cargo directly contributed to the accident by overloading a truck, improperly distributing weight, or failing to adequately secure the cargo.
- Maintenance company. Inadequate maintenance can also be a factor in commercial truck accidents. If a mechanical failure, such as brake failure or tire blowout contributes to the accident, the entity responsible for maintaining the truck may be held liable for negligence.
Other parties might play a role in your accident as well, such as other drivers. Determining exactly who is liable often requires the expertise of a Georgia personal injury attorney.
Protect Your Rights
After being involved in a truck wreck in Georgia, seeking legal recourse is crucial to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. After receiving proper medical care, consult a knowledgeable personal injury attorney specializing in truck accident cases, like the personal injury team at Evans Litigation and Trial Law, LLC. An attorney can assess the specifics of your case, advise you on your legal rights, and help you choose the best course of action for your recovery. They will be your guide throughout the legal process, gathering the evidence to support your claim, including medical bills, police reports, electronic logging devices, and onboard cameras. In many cases, the process will involve making a claim with the driver’s insurance company. Your attorney can handle the negotiations and settlement process on your behalf, or even pursue litigation if necessary.
Contact Us
With decades of experience representing clients throughout Georgia, Evans Litigation and Trial Law, LLC takes pride in helping victims of devastating tractor trailer accidents obtain the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one have been injured due to someone else’s negligence in a truck wreck, give our office a call or fill out our online contact form to set up a consultation.
Alfred L. Evans III, an Atlanta native and Hampden-Sydney College alum, is a seasoned personal injury lawyer with a unique background in insurance defense. Founding Evans Litigation and Trial Law in 2013, he specializes in wrongful death litigation, trucking litigation, and various vehicle accident cases. Recognized as a Super Lawyer and a “Rising Star” by Superlawyers, Alfred applies his in-depth knowledge of the insurance and trucking industries to maximize client recoveries.
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