Driving on Georgia’s highway can be risky for all vehicle owners, especially those driving near semi-trucks. Their large size and heavy weight can cause accidents with major injuries and damages. When a semi-truck crashes into a car, motorcycle, etc., the outcomes can be terrible and sometimes even deadly. So, if you have been a victim of such accident, you need to consult with an experienced semi-truck accident attorney in Atlanta.
These experts possess a deep understanding of state laws and federal semi-truck regulations. With their knowledge and expertise, they can guide you to take the right actions.
Federal Regulations of Semi-Truck Accidents
Because of their size and cargo, semi-truck drivers must follow higher safety standards. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets these rules for semi-truck drivers and their companies. The FMCSA has strict guidelines for how often semi-trucks must be maintained, how long drivers can work, and how much weight the trucks can carry. Drivers also need special licenses to operate these trucks. Even after these extensive safety regulations and severe penalties for breaking them, accidents still happen. Thousands of semi-truck accidents occur in the US every year.
Moreover, In Georgia, every vehicle on the road must have liability insurance. This law, known as the Motor Vehicle Safety and Responsibility Act (Ga. Code § 33-34-4), also applies to commercial vehicles like trucks, buses, and vans.
Since commercial trucks are usually larger and heavier than regular cars, they often cause more serious damage in collisions. Therefore, trucking companies and truck drivers must have more insurance to cover potential property damage and injuries.
Georgia’s regulations require most commercial vehicles to have minimum liability coverage of $750,000 to $1,000,000. Trucks that carry oil products must have $1,000,000 in liability insurance, and those transporting hazardous materials must have at least $5,000,000 in coverage.
Applicable Laws
Numerous laws apply to semi-trucks, semi-truck drivers, and commercial trucking companies. Violating these laws can result in personal injury claims either against the driver or the employer. A reliable semi-truck accident attorney in Atlanta can help you determine whether it’s the driver’s carelessness, the truck company’s negligence, or a faulty vehicle. Here are some common truck violations:
• Commercial Driver’s License Violations
• Distracted Driving (ex: cell phone use)
• Driver’s Hours of Service
• Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
• Negligent Hiring or Training Practices
• Reckless Driving
• Vehicle Maintenance Violations
Filing a Claim
Semi-truck accidents are dealt with through the trucking company’s commercial insurance provider, which offers policies worth much more than regular accident policies. Compensation for these accidents is generally based on three main factors: 1) past and future medical bills, 2) past and future lost wages, and 3) past and future pain and suffering. The more severe the damages, the higher the compensation may be.
Georgia law uses modified comparative negligence rules for personal injury cases. These rules determine how much compensation an injured person can get based on their involvement in the accident. If the claimant was not at fault, they can receive full compensation. If they are partially at fault, their compensation is reduced. If they are more than 50% at fault, they cannot receive any compensation for the accident.
Settlement
If you or your loved one has been injured in a semi-truck accident, you should have an experienced semi-truck accident attorney in Atlanta on your side. They can help you get the right compensation for your losses.
When an accident occurs, the trucking company and its insurer quickly start working on a defense strategy. Their goal is to avoid blame so they don’t have to pay damages. Hence, it’s essential to have a legal expert who can guide you.
The team of semi-truck accident attorneys at Karma Injury Law has more than 10 years of experience in dealing with insurance companies and fighting for clients. Our experts use a transparent and compassionate approach and have represented numerous truck accident victims. Contact us now to discuss your specific case and let us guide you through the legal process.
