Georgia highways experience a high number of truck accidents each year. In 2006 alone, trucking accidents in the state resulted in 27 fatalities. Although numerous measures have been taken to minimize the number of truck-related road collisions that happen on an annual basis, this type of accident is still responsible for 12 to 13 percent of highway accidents. If you find yourself in one of these accidents we recommend you call an Atlanta truck accident lawyer. Contact our personal injury firm today to schedule a free consultation.
What are Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Some of the more common causes of truck accidents include:
Driver error
Driver error is the most common reason for trucking accidents. Fatigue, DUI, reckless driving, and inexperience are all categorized as driver errors. By law, truck drivers are required to practice extra care when on the road because of the weight and size of the vehicles they are driving. Unfortunately, a driver who is sick and is taking medications may have already been on the road for too many hours or be under the influence of alcohol and may, therefore, fail to practice his duty of care.
If it is found that the accident was caused by driver error, the driver, as well as the trucking company, can be held civilly liable. Truck drivers who are found guilty of DUI will face criminal charges.
Mechanical defect or equipment failure
Trucks are subjected to heavy use, which is why it is very important that they undergo proper maintenance regularly. Sadly, there are some trucking companies that fail to maintain their trucks as often as they should because of the costs and the income that could be lost when one of their units is out of commission. If it is found that the trucking company was negligent of their responsibility to maintain their units, then they can be held liable in the lawsuit.
Mechanical defects or design flaws are also common causes of trucking accidents. If it can be proven that the accident was caused by these factors, the truck manufacturer can be held liable.
Poor road or weather conditions
In instances where the accident was caused by poor road conditions, such as with uneven or badly constructed roads, the government agency responsible for maintaining public roads and highways can be held liable.
Improper loading
An overloaded truck or one that is carrying an unevenly distributed load has a high probability of turning over or jackknifing. The company responsible for loading the truck’s cargo can be held liable in the lawsuit.
Hiring Ted A. Greve & Associates, P.A. Law Firm to Represent You
Ted A. Greve & Associates has more than 10 years of experience handling personal injury claims such as truck accident lawsuits and has won millions of dollars in claims and settlements on behalf of their clients. The firm is composed of highly experienced car accident lawyers, paralegals, staff, and physicians who all work together to win their clients’ cases.
An Atlanta truck accident lawyer at Ted A. Greve & Associates understands what their clients’ are going through, which is why they make it a point to provide personalized and efficient service. They strive to achieve maximum compensation in the quickest time possible so that their clients can finally move on and recover from their injuries in peace.
Truck accident victims need not worry about legal fees if they choose Ted A. Greve & Associates, P.A. to represent them because the firm works on a contingency fee basis. This simply means the firm doesn’t get paid unless their clients are paid.
To schedule a free consultation, call Ted A. Greve & Associates, P.A. at (844)387-8677.
