Semi-truck accidents can happen anywhere—including Kennesaw. And these vehicles are disproportionately dangerous because of their size, weight and lack of stopping power. They can do severe damage to another vehicle or to a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist, even at very low speeds. If you or a loved one has been involved in this type of accident, your first priority should be talking to a Kennesaw semi-truck & 18-wheeler accident lawyer.
Our lawyers understand just how dangerous these accidents can be because we have seen thousands in our over two decades of experience representing victims of truck accident cases. We never represent insurance companies—we want to help victims and their families during this difficult time. While your life may never be the same after a semi-truck accident, you can at least get some money damages for your losses. Call us at (404) 341-6555 or fill out the form to the right to get your free consultation today.
Why are semi-truck and 18-wheelers involved in so many accidents?
Semi-trucks and 18-wheelers are enormous vehicles. Their sheer size and weight make them difficult to drive, especially in tight areas that are designed with passenger vehicles in mind. High speeds also make these trucks hard to control. Truck accidents can occur for a wide variety of reasons. The unique size, shape, and usage of 18-wheelers make them prone to unusual accidents. Below are just a few examples of accidents that are unique to 18-wheelers or semi-trucks.
- Left turns. Semi-trucks and 18-wheelers must make very wide left turns. Swinging out to make that turn can be challenging in high traffic areas and can cause accidents. Turning too tightly can also cause the truck to tip as well.
- Underrides. Because trucks are so large, there’s also a risk of “underrides.” This type of incident occurs when a car hits the side of a semi and slides underneath of it. This kind of collision often crushes all or part of the vehicle, severely threatening those in the car. Statistics from the federal government indicate that over 200 people are killed every year in this type of accident.
- Overrides. When a semi-truck or 18-wheeler hits you, especially in rear-end collisions, the truck can actually roll right over the back end of your car. Although rear-end accidents are usually just fender benders when they involve passenger vehicles, that is often not the case when huge semi-trucks are involved. The truck can crush the back end of the car and may even reach the back seat before it comes to a complete stop, sometimes severely injuring anyone in the back seat.
- Cargo shifts. Semi-trucks need to be loaded properly to function correctly. When weight in their cargo is not distributed correctly, it can shift, causing control issues. The 18-wheeler may tip suddenly during a turn or even with a quick maneuver to avoid an accident. Moving cargo can also inhibit the vehicle’s ability to stop as well.
- Stopped trucks. Semi-truck drivers end up operating their vehicles for hours on end. They may not always have a great place to pull over and rest. You will often see them lining the side of exits or on-ramps. They may also be parked in traffic while they load or unload as well. Semi-trucks have particular restrictions regarding parking. If they violate these, they may be liable for your damages, even if you hit them while they were parked. Your semi-truck lawyer will be able to tell you more about this possibility.
An accident certainly doesn’t have to be unique to a semi for it to lead to legal responsibility. Even more “traditional” accidents with a truck may mean that the driver or trucking company will be responsible for your losses after a crash.
What kind of money is available after an accident involving a semi?
Generally, you will be able to recover the same type of damages in a semi-truck accident as you would in a car accident. The difference is that your injuries may be much more severe because the crash involves a significantly larger vehicle. Your potential losses after an 18-wheeler accident may include:
- Medical expenses
- Wage losses
- Loss of earning capacity in the future
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
You may have other losses as well. Each case is different, and you should think long and hard about how the 18-wheeler accident has changed your life or could affect your future to list out the damages in your case. Many people think about the losses that they have already experienced and forget about future losses. Remember that future medical care, lost wages, and other related issues can all be recovered in your semi-truck accident case.
How can an attorney help in an 18-wheeler case?
Your lawyer’s major role is to help you determine the value of your case and communicate the strengths of your case to the other party. The other side is often an insurance company that has extensive experience in these types of situations. By using an experienced semi-truck lawyer, you can level the playing field to help ensure that you get a fair settlement that realistically reflects the actual value of all of your losses after an accident.
Your lawyer also guides you through the legal process and negotiates with the insurance company on your behalf too. A lawyer will do the legwork to present your case while you focus on recovering after the crash.
Talk to a Kennesaw Semi-Truck & 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer for Free
Has your life recently been significantly changed because of a semi-truck accident? You don’t have to go through this alone. Our lawyers are ready to assist you through this challenging time. Let us connect you with some of the top semi-truck and 18-wheeler accident attorneys in the state so you can work through your options. Call us at (404) 341-6555 or fill out the form to the right to get your free consultation today.
