Truck Accidents Can Result In Complex Lawsuits
Our Experience Can Make The Difference In The Outcome
Commercial truck drivers face significant, and often unreasonable, pressures from trucking companies to deliver goods in a timely fashion. Even though the trucking industry is highly regulated, trucking companies and drivers may skirt these rules in an attempt to drive more miles. Other drivers and passengers may pay a heavy price for these actions.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash, it is absolutely essential to work closely with an experienced lawyer. From our office in Gainesville, we at The Goldman Firm protect the rights of people across Georgia.
Taking Decisive Action For Victims Of Trucking Company Negligence
Because 18-wheelers (or semi tractor-trailers) are so much larger than other vehicles, these accidents are much more likely to cause catastrophic injuries or even death. In addition, truck injury cases involve many legal obstacles that are different from other motor vehicle wrecks. Our attorney, Steven Goldman, has more than 25 years of experience representing people injured in all types of motor vehicle crashes, including truck accidents. As a result, our firm knows how to create a strong claim for your damages.
Immediate Action After A Truck Accident Can Offer Real Benefits
It is important to act as quickly as possible after an accident. For example, trucking companies and truck drivers are required to keep detailed records on the number of hours driven, when a driver took a rest, and other information. In addition, the condition of the truck may contain key information about the accident. Trucking companies are only required to keep this information for a limited period of time. If you do not bring a lawsuit and ask to secure this evidence, these records could be destroyed.
Additionally, by acting quickly you can avoid taking actions that could compromise your legal case. The trucking company’s goal is to protect its bottom line, not to ensure that you recover fair compensation. When you work with our law firm after a truck injury, we will take all the necessary steps to give you the best chance of recovering full compensation for your medical expenses, lost income and other damages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents In Sarasota Springs
When you are involved in a truck accident, it helps to have as much information as possible. Here are some of the most common questions we hear at The Goldman Firm.
Who is liable in a trucking accident?
Determining liability in a truck wreck can be complicated because multiple parties may share the responsibility. Some of the key parties that may be named as defendants include:
- The truck driver, due to negligence involving speeding, distracted driving, reckless behavior and Hours of Service violations
- The trucking company, for neglecting to maintain their vehicles, pressuring drivers to meet unreasonable deadlines or hiring inexperienced drivers
- The cargo loader, for not properly securing cargo and causing shifting loads and rollovers
- The truck manufacturer or parts supplier whenever mechanical failures, like tire blowouts or brake malfunctions, lead to a crash
- Third-party contractors, such as those that perform maintenance or inspections on large vehicles and improperly certify them as safe for the road
Part of an experienced truck accident lawyer’s job is making certain that all defendants and possible avenues of compensation in a claim are identified.
What factors make trucking accidents different from car accidents?
Semis are immense, and they can outweigh passenger vehicles by more than 70,000 pounds. That automatically tends to make wrecks involving these vehicles more severe, with catastrophic injuries and fatalities likely.
In addition, trucking accidents usually involve multiple stakeholders and there are complex issues involving compliance with both federal and state regulations, such as those governing hours of service, maintenance and inspections.
Finally, claims against trucking companies tend to be large. This can lead to extended legal disputes between the various insurance companies involved and those who are injured or their survivors.
What are the statistics surrounding truck accidents?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that accidents involving big rigs have been steadily increasing over the last dozen years – both nationwide and in Georgia. In 2021 there were an estimated 117,312 accidents nationwide involving large trucks that led to injuries or fatalities. A total of 245 fatal truck wrecks occurred within this state.
It’s important to note that only 26% of fatal truck accidents happen on the interstate. The majority – 56% – happen in rural areas. That indicates that you can never really be safe from danger, no matter where you are, when these large vehicles are involved.
The Initial Consultation Is Free
When you work with The Goldman Firm, you can count on receiving exceptional legal representation and personalized attention. Call us at 404-857-3505 or complete our online contact form to schedule your free initial consultation.
