Alpharetta Truck Accident Attorneys

FAQs About Truck Accidents in Alpharetta, GA

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

After a truck accident in Alpharetta, your first priority should be safety—move to a safe location if possible and call 911. Make sure medical help is on the way, even if injuries seem minor. Next, gather evidence at the scene, such as taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get the contact and insurance details of the truck driver, as well as contact information from witnesses. Importantly, avoid admitting fault or discussing details of the crash with anyone except law enforcement. Finally, consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in truck accident claims before speaking with any insurance companies.

What are the common types of injuries from a truck accident?

Unfortunately, all of these factors make truck accidents especially dangerous for those in Alpharetta, Georgia. A motorist involved in an accident with a truck could suffer a variety of injuries including broken bones, burn injuries, head and brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or internal injuries. These injuries can be expensive to treat and, in some cases, they may be permanent or lead to death.

Who can be held liable in a truck accident case?

In Alpharetta and throughout Georgia, multiple parties may be held liable in a truck accident case. While the truck driver may bear responsibility, liability could also fall on the trucking company, the vehicle’s manufacturer (if a mechanical failure occurred), maintenance contractors, or even a cargo-loading company. Georgia follows a comparative negligence rule, which means more than one party can share fault. An experienced attorney can help investigate the accident and identify all potential sources of liability to strengthen your claim.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Georgia?

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including truck accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you must file your lawsuit within that timeframe or risk losing your right to compensation. However, exceptions can apply depending on the circumstances, such as if a government entity is involved. It’s best to consult a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident to ensure deadlines are met and your legal rights are preserved.

What types of compensation can I receive after a truck accident?

Victims of truck accidents in Alpharetta may be eligible for various types of compensation. These typically include medical expenses (both current and future), lost wages, loss of earning capacity, property damage, and pain and suffering. In cases involving gross negligence—like a truck driver operating under the influence—punitive damages may also be awarded. An attorney can help assess the full scope of your damages to pursue the maximum compensation available under Georgia law.

Why is a truck accident claim more complex than a regular car accident?

Truck accident claims tend to be more complex than typical car accident cases for several reasons. Trucks are governed by both state and federal regulations, which means compliance issues can play a role in determining liability. Additionally, trucks weigh much more than passenger cars, with an estimated weight of as high as 80,000 pounds for many big rigs and tractor-trailers. Trucks not only have more momentum because of their larger size, but they can also be susceptible to rollover accidents, underride accidents, and jackknife accidents. 

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

It is generally not advisable to speak directly with the trucking company’s insurance adjuster without first consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts and may use your statements against you to reduce or deny your claim. An experienced truck accident lawyer can handle all communications on your behalf and negotiate with the insurance company to protect your interests and ensure you receive fair compensation.

How is fault determined in a truck accident?

Determining fault in a truck accident involves a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. In Alpharetta, law enforcement reports, eyewitness accounts, traffic camera footage, vehicle black box data, and trucking company records are often used to reconstruct what happened. Georgia follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning you can still recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault—but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our team can help gather and analyze evidence to build a strong case.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

If the truck driver was working as an independent contractor, it can complicate the liability process. Trucking companies may try to distance themselves from responsibility by claiming the driver was not an employee. However, if the company exerted significant control over the driver’s schedule or vehicle, it may still be held liable under Georgia law. This makes it especially important to have legal representation to determine whether the company can still be pursued for damages based on their relationship with the driver.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the truck accident?

Yes, you can still file a claim in Georgia even if you were partially at fault, as long as you are less than 50% responsible for the accident. This is because Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by that percentage. Determining fault percentages is often subjective, our Alpharetta truck accident attorney can advocate for your side of the story.

What makes commercial truck insurance policies different from regular auto insurance?

Commercial truck insurance policies are typically far more complex and carry much higher coverage limits than personal auto insurance policies. This is because trucks pose a higher risk due to their size, weight, and potential for catastrophic damage. These policies may also include coverage for cargo, multiple drivers, and specialized liability provisions. Dealing with commercial insurers requires careful legal strategy, as they often have teams of adjusters and attorneys working to protect their bottom line.

Do I need an attorney for a truck accident claim in Alpharetta?

Having one is strongly recommended in truck accident cases due to their complexity and high stakes. Trucking companies and insurers often have aggressive legal teams working to minimize payouts. Our Alpharetta truck accident lawyers at Van Sant Law have experience in truck accidents and will know how to preserve evidence, deal with multiple liable parties, and negotiate for full and fair compensation on your behalf.

Contact us today at (800) 234-9556 to schedule a free case evaluation with our truck accident attorneys in Alpharetta, GA.