Set Up a Free Consultation With Our Top Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer
At Keith B. French Law, PLLC, our Atlanta truck accident lawyer has the knowledge, skills, and legal experience that you can rely on. We hold negligent truck drivers and negligent trucking companies accountable. If you or your loved one was hurt in a crash with a tractor trailer, please contact us today for a free, no obligation consultation with an Atlanta truck accident attorney.
Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents in Atlanta
Atlanta is one of the busiest transportation hubs in the Southeastern United States. With multiple interstates converging in the metro area—including I-75, I-85, and I-285—thousands of commercial trucks pass through the city every day. These vehicles are essential to the region’s economy. At the same time, trucks have the potential to be extremely dangerous. A fully loaded tractor trailer can weigh up to 40 tons. Trucking companies should never cut corners on safety. Profits cannot be allowed to come before people. Unfortunately, (avoidable) eighteen wheeler accidents remain a serious problem in our region. Here some of the most common causes:
Truck Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours to meet tight delivery deadlines. Despite federal hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, fatigue remains a top cause of truck accidents. A tired truck driver is a dangerous driver.
Distracted Driving: Truckers need to keep their full attention on the road. For truck drivers, even a momentary lapse in attention can be especially dangerous due to the size and weight of their vehicles.
Speeding or Driving Too Fast for Conditions: Whether exceeding posted speed limits or failing to slow down for weather or traffic conditions, speeding is a major risk factor. A speeding truck needs significantly more distance to stop.
Improper Lane Changes: Notably, commercial trucks have large blind spots, making it harder for drivers to see surrounding vehicles. Unsafe lane changes or merging without proper signaling can lead to deadly sideswipe collisions.
Inadequate Driver Training: Not all commercial drivers are properly trained to handle large trucks, especially in dense urban areas like Atlanta. A lack of familiarity with local roads can be dangerous.
Poor Truck Maintenance: Trucking companies are legally required to keep their vehicles in safe working condition. Brake failures, worn tires, broken lights, and other mechanical issues can lead to accidents that were entirely preventable.
Understanding Truck Accident Liability in Georgia
Georgia is a fault-based state for truck accidents. The party (trucker or otherwise) who was responsible for causing the crash can also be held legally responsible for paying damages. Injured victims can pursue compensation by filing a claim against the at-fault truck driver, the trucking company, or another liable party. A modified comparative negligence standard applies. Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 51-11-7), you can still seek compensation even if you bear partial fault for a truck accident—as long as your degree of blames do not exceed 50 percent.
A Two-Year Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims
Truck accident injury cases in Georgia are time-sensitive. Under O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33, there is a two-year statute of limitations. If you do not file a lawsuit in a timely manner, you may not be able to take legal action at all. Do not miss your chance to get justice. Consult with an Atlanta, GA truck accident lawyer right away after a serious wreck.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for Truck Accident Victims
Hurt in a tractor trailer wreck in Atlanta? You have the right to seek compensation for the full extent of your damages, including for non-economic. However, unfortunately, neither truck companies nor commercial insurance carriers can be relied on to step up and pay out full and fair compensation. Our Atlanta, GA truck accident lawyer is here to help you secure the maximum settlement or verdict. Along with other damages, you may be entitled to recover for:
Property damage, including vehicle repairs;
Emergency room treatment;
Hospital bills and other health costs;
Physical therapy and rehabilitative support;
Lost wages and reduced future earnings;
Pain and suffering & mental distress;
Disability or disfigurement; and
Wrongful death of a family member.
Why Trust Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer Keith B. French Jr.
Semi-truck accidents are among the most challenging cases. Indeed, truck accident cases in Atlanta require specialized legal knowledge. Our founder Keith B. French Jr. is a member of the State Bar of Georgia and a knowledgeable advocate for truck accident victims. Attorney French is adept at handling the complexities of trucking regulations and liability issues. Our client testimonials tell the story. When you reach out to our Atlanta office, you will connect with a Georgia truck accident lawyer who is ready to:
Conduct a free, comprehensive review and evaluation of your case;
Thoroughly investigate your eighteen wheeler crash in the Atlanta area;
Handle truck accident paperwork and represent you in settlement talks; and
Develop a comprehensive strategy focused on maximizing your compensation.
Truck Accident Claims in Atlanta: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should I Give a Statement to the Truck Company’s Insurer After a Crash?
Not until you speak to an Atlanta truck accident attorney. Insurance adjusters often look for ways to shift blame or minimize payouts, and anything you say could be used against you. Your Atlanta truck accident lawyer can represent you in all correspondence with truck companies and insurers.
How Much is My Truck Accident Case Worth?
It depends. Your compensation will depend on many different factors, including liability, damages, and insurance coverage. Key factors include the extent of your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and any long-term impact on your life.
Can I Afford to Hire the Best Atlanta Tractor Trailer Accident Attorney?
Yes. You should never let finances be a barrier to pursuing justice. At Keith B. French Law, PLLC, we represent truck accident victims on a contingency fee basis. There are zero upfront costs and zero out-of-pocket fees. If you do not get paid, we do not get paid. Period. Your initial consultation with our Atlanta semi-truck accident attorney is free and carries no obligations.
Contact Our Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review
At Keith B. French Law, PLLC, our Atlanta, GA, semi-truck accident attorney is standing by, ready to fight to protect your rights. Hurt in a commercial truck accident? You need a top attorney. Contact us right away for a free, no obligation initial consultation. From our Atlanta office, we handle eighteen-wheeler accident cases all across the wider region.
I have referred many friends and family over the years to Keith French and have never received any complaints. He is obviously smart and competent, but it’s his character and devotion to helping people over all else that is impressive.
— Matthew
Keith French helped defend my business against false accusations. He was worth every dime I spent to defend my case. I use him for all my legal needs. I highly recommend this firm.
— Alry
Keith French is an excellent attorney and a joy to work with. He is one of those rare attorneys who has high intellect, a strong work ethic, and cares deeply about how the law impacts people’s lives.
— Former Federal Prosecutor
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