According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there were 4,440 semi trucks and buses involved in accidents that resulted in one or more fatalities in 2019. There were approximately 119,000 injuries resulting from crashes involving large trucks and buses in that same year.
Commercial vehicles are a part of our everyday lives. Each time we merge onto the highway, we see semi-trucks, big rigs, and other large vehicles. These trucks are an essential part of our economy, moving goods from place to place and making sure our communities have the resources to thrive. Unfortunately, these vehicles can also be dangerous.
Truck drivers spend hours on the road, for days at a time, and sometimes weeks on end. As a result, trucks and their drivers wear down, increasing the chances of a catastrophic incident on the road. If you or someone you love sustained injury as the result of a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation. A trucking injury settlement will help you pay for medical bills, compensate for lost wages, and give your family recompense for pain and suffering.
Truck accidents can often lead to serious and debilitating injury or death. Know your legal options in the event of a crash with a commercial vehicle.
Tractor-trailer Basics
Tractor-trailers are also referred to as “18-wheelers,” “semi trucks,” and “big rigs.” You will find tractor trailers on almost every major highway and road in the United States. Tractor trailers transport about 75 percent of all cargo that is shipped in this country, making them an important part of our economy.
These large vehicles are legally permitted to haul up to 80,000 pounds or 40 tons of cargo. Consider that a typical passenger car weighs only about 2,000 to 4,000 pounds and it is easy to understand just why these accidents can be so catastrophic.
Why Tractor Trailers Crash?
As a Georgia truck accident lawyer, we have witnessed a variety of reasons for tractor trailer accidents. Although each accident is certainly unique, there are causes that tend to be more common than others.
How do you find the right accident attorney?
In any serious accident, it’s important to carefully choose your representation. You want someone who will ensure that you receive the best possible outcome given your circumstances.
Here are some important considerations when selecting a truck accident attorney:
- Find someone knowledgeable
- Truck accidents often involve numerous parties at fault, not merely the drivers. Choose someone who recognizes all of the facets that should be addressed, including: georgia truck accident attorneys
- Federal regulations
- Parts manufacturers
- Truck maintenance companies
- Multiple insurance companies
- Cargo companies
- Truck businesses
- Witnesses
- Passengers
- Ask for referrals
- Although it’s unlikely you know anyone who has been involved in a truck accident, it’s worth checking with friends and family to see if they have recommendations. That said, it’s important to understand that a lawyer involved in a car accident case requires different knowledge than a truck accident lawyer. Ask other professionals, particularly other attorneys, if they have recommendations as well.
- Arrange interviews
- Questions to ask your accident attorney
Prior to interviewing potential commercial vehicle truck attorneys, prepare a list of questions that you would like to have answered. Below are some questions that will help you make the best use of your time.
What will I be charged for a lawyer services?
Many personal injury lawyers charge a fee based upon whether you receive a monetary award. This is called a contingency fee. As long as you have a solid case, most truck accident attorneys will agree to a contingency fee. The typical amount ranges from 25 percent to 40 percent of the settlement amount. The greater severity of your injuries and the stronger your case is, the more willing most lawyers will be to negotiate the contingency fee.
What court fees should I expect to pay?
Even if you pay a contingency fee for representation, expect that there may be more costs incurred. Additional costs may arise from court fees, investigation fees, and other charges that occur even if you lose the case. Make sure you understand these upfront.
What experience do you have in similar cases?
There is tremendous competition for clients in personal injury cases. This is especially true when commercial vehicles are involved. Do not assume that the existence of advertisements or commercials constitutes experience. Ask for specifics, including the percentage of cases won. Request to speak with previous clients, knowing that some attorneys will refuse to provide personal information.
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