Every auto accident is serious, but when an 18-wheeler collides with a smaller car the injuries can be catastrophic.
Tractor-trailer trucks weigh tons even when empty. The average car weighs about 4,000 lbs. A vehicle with a gross weight over 10,000 lbs. is considered a large truck and many tractor trailers weigh in excess of 80,000 lbs. Therefore, the impact of a crash is more intense than one involving two cars or average-sized vehicles. In addition, if the vehicle carries hazardous or flammable materials, the risk is even greater.
The trucking industry has many laws and regulations that are designed to keep the motoring public safe. This makes the accident more complex in terms of insurance and legal issues. Our experienced attorneys provide effective representation in a variety of truck accident cases, including:
DRIVER TRAINING
Drivers are required to have certain training and to pass testing and licensing requirements for commercial truck drivers. Certain licenses are required to operate certain types of trucks and specific rules must be followed when transporting certain materials or operating specific types of trucks. Failure to have certain training or endorsements can result in serious accidents.
DRIVER FATIGUE OR DISTRACTION
Truck drivers must follow legal regulations regarding their drive-time on the road. These laws seek to protect the driver and other operators on the highway. When drivers fail to follow these rules, serious accidents can result.
POOR VEHICLE MAINTENANCE.
Truck owners and operators have a duty to maintain these vehicles and keep them in a safe and reasonably operable manner. Failure to meet this duty may place injury liability on multiple parties.
Our knowledgeable Atlanta truck accident lawyers have successfully handled the numerous complexities of truck accident cases. We are ready to hold all responsible parties accountable for your injuries.