Truck Accidents

TRUCK ACCIDENTS

TRUCK ACCIDENT ATTORNEY IN DULUTH, GA

Duluth Truck Accident Lawyer

On the surface truck accidents might seem similar to car accidents, but there are actually several significant differences. If handled correctly, these differences can maximize your recovery and allow you to be “made whole.”

 

Maybe the most important difference is the severity of injuries. The typical semi-truck weighs about 35,000 pounds, although some can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. The average commuter car weighs about 3,000 pounds.

 

People injured in truck accidents frequently suffer catastrophic injuries that result in long hospitals stays and, in many cases, permanent disabilities. Those types of injuries are much more expensive to treat and manage compared to injuries commonly associated with regular auto accidents.

 

The other major differences are the types of insurance coverage commercial trucking companies possess and the number of potentially liable parties.

 

In many cases more than one defendant can be named in a trucking accident. The driver, the trucking company, their maintenance contractor, and even the distributor that loaded the truck are all potentially liable for their contributory negligence. Under the Federal Motor Safety Carrier Regulations, any commercial vehicle hauling cargo while transacting interstate commerce must carry (a) a minimum ofof $750,000 of liability insurance coverage if they are haluling non-hazardous substances (49 C.F.R. § 387.9) or (b) a minimum of $5,000,000 if they are hauling hazardous substances or materials (49 C.F.R. § 171.8, 49 C.F.R. § 473.403).

 

Perhaps most importantly, where the truck is owned and/or operated by an interstate carrier, the insurance carrier(s) themselves may be named as Defendants in the action under Georgia’s “direct action” statute. O.C.G.A. § 40-2-140(d)(4) and/or O.C.G.A. § 40-1-112(c).

 

Those companies are covered by commercial liability policies that typically have liability limits than personal auto insurance policies.

 

To put it simply, when pursued vigorously, truck accident victims have an opportunity to be recompensed in a way that the victims in car wreck cases may not. The avenues of recovery when the case is handled correctly can guarantee a result that helps the client get a full recovery for their damages.

Many Factors Can Lead to Truck Accidents

Most truck drivers are trained professionals who do their best to drive safely, but even skilled and experienced truck drivers can make mistakes or have accidents.

 

Truck drivers are frequently encouraged to work long hours. Commercial truck drivers can get distracted just like normal car, truck or SUV drivers. The truck driver’s vehicle might be poorly maintained, have faulty brakes or suffer some other kind of malfunction that causes an accident.

 

Driver fatigue or distraction might cause a truck driver to drift slightly into oncoming traffic. They might be forced to swerve because of an aggressive driver and hit another car as a result.

 

There are an essentially limitless number of scenarios that can lead to these deadly accidents. Working with a truck accident attorney who understands how to investigate truck accidents can help ensure the true cause is uncovered and brought to light.

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Do you need to speak with a Duluth personal injury attorney? Zdrilich Injury Law is ready to help.

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Joe in the News

DUI Crash Got You Hurt? Here's How to Fight Back

By Joseph Zdrilich • 24 Apr, 2024
Dealing with the aftermath of a DUI accident can be as traumatic as the incident itself, but it doesn’t need to be. Zdrilich Injury Law provides staunch advocacy for DUI accident victims, helping them understand their rights as a DUI collision survivor, which leads to restorative compensation.  Read on as we share our extensive expertise in Georgia DUI law and how to move forward. Legal Recourse for DUI Accident Injuries If you’re struggling with medical costs, lost wages, and property damage as a DUI victim, know that you have choices. Seeking justice after being hit by a drunk driver requires exploring the legal avenues available to you. DUI accident victim compensation is offered by The Georgia Victims Compensation Program , and taking the guilty party to court is also an option. Some immediate steps to take after a DUI accident include seeking immediate medical treatment, documenting everything, and finding legal aid for DUI injury claims. Why Do Drunk Driving Accidents Lead to More Serious Injuries? Drunk drivers typically have higher-risk behaviors, slower reaction times, reduced coordination, and lack of focus. This reckless behavior sadly leads to higher-impact crashes and more severe injuries for its victims. There can be long-term physical and emotional distress, even after a DUI accident with minor injuries. Is Drunk Driving Considered a Criminal or Civil Case in Georgia? Drunk driving is indeed a criminal offense in Georgia, but this does not remove your option for a civil case. Punishment includes criminal penalties for offenders, while civil suits are about securing compensation. What Kind of Compensation Can I Receive? Compensation should cover medical bills, lost work, and even punitive damages, which are especially meaningful if multiple at-fault drivers were involved in the accident. If the offender was uninsured at the time of the accident or benefitted from sovereign immunity, you need a legal expert to navigate your options successfully. How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit? Suing for compensation as a DUI accident victim should happen as quickly as possible, as there are stringent rules regarding deadlines. Prompt legal consultation is recommended to get the ball rolling within the two-year statute of limitations. Georgia DUI Accident Claims FAQ Q. What is the most common age for drunk driving accidents? A. According to the CDC , 52% of alcohol-related crashes leading to fatalities were caused by drivers aged 21-34 in 2020. Q. What is the punishment for drunk driving in Georgia? A. First-time offenders can face fines, jail time, community service requirements, and a suspended license. Repeated offenses often result in longer jail sentences, hefty fines, and mandatory rehabilitation programs. Q. Can you sue a bar that serves a drunk driver in Georgia? A. Under certain conditions, this is allowed. For example, if the drunk driver was clearly intoxicated when served. This is known as the dram shop liability claim. Conclusion Asserting your legal rights after a DUI accident requires timely action on your part. Meet with an experienced injury attorney to learn your rights and options to seek the compensation you deserve. Get Help from the Legal Experts at Zdrilich Injury Law If you’ve had your life turned upside down after a DUI crash through no fault of your own, we’re here for you. With decades of expertise, the team at Zdrilich Injury Law can explain your financial recovery options as a DUI accident victim. Because every case is unique, we listen, plan, and fight for your rights as a victim. We design tailor-made strategies to win maximum compensation on your behalf. We demystify the process and keep you informed every step of the way so you can concentrate on recovery. With us by your side, a brighter future is within reach. Contact Us Don’t let uncertainty keep you from exercising your legal rights. Contact our compassionate team today for more information or to schedule a private consultation.

Broken Body, Broken Finances? Get the Compensation You Deserve After a Catastrophic Injury

By Joseph Zdrilich • 15 Mar, 2024
When life hands you a tragic, life-changing injury, it fractures both the body and spirit. Unfortunately, the harm doesn’t end there. Catastrophic injuries shatter your financial viability and any prospects of it ever improving. It’s difficult to know where to turn or what options are available to you and your family.  Zdrilich Injury Law stands at the forefront of the injury compensation battle to provide expert legal guidance. Our years of dedication and compassion for catastrophic injury victims have given us the expertise to secure the restitution you deserve. Read on as we provide more details about the catastrophic injury claim process. Georgia Catastrophic Injuries in the Workplace Workers in Georgia face risks every time they clock in. Despite the state’s stringent safety regulations, catastrophic injuries happen, leaving victims facing a frightening future. The good news is that Georgia law provides victims a protective shield and access to financial, medical, and emotional distress benefits. What Is a Catastrophic Injury? More than a broken limb or temporary physical impairment, catastrophic injuries are life-altering. Examples of these are spinal cord damage, paralysis, severe burns, amputations, brain trauma, and other miscellaneous severe injuries. Catastrophic injuries are defined by their permanence and demand for life-long treatment. What Benefits Are Available for Catastrophic Workplace Injuries? Legal recourse for victims of catastrophic injuries aims to give them back some sense of normalcy. Compensation might include indemnity for lost wages, medical bill coverage, surgeries, psychological counseling, and nursing support for permanent partial disability. Catastrophic Injury FAQ Q. Are catastrophic work compensation benefits permanent? A. According to the State Board of Worker’s Compensation , they can be, which ensures long-term financial support. Q. Who pays for catastrophic injury care? A. Typically, it's companies' insurance providers. Q. What is the maximum payout for a catastrophic injury lawsuit in Georgia? A. It varies from case to case but aims to address your financial upheaval both now and in the future. Q. Is proving negligence challenging? A. Yes, it can be, but it's pivotal for emotional distress compensation and other restitution. Your personal injury attorney can guide you through the process in detail. Conclusion Catastrophic injuries cause more than just physical pain; they also bring financial strain and uncertainty about the future. It's crucial to find an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer to learn about your legal rights and options for compensation under Georgia law. Life After a Catastrophic Injury – Getting the Compensation You Deserve Maximizing compensation for catastrophic injuries is all-important, and you only get one chance to plead your case. Remember, it’s not just about today’s medical bills; it's about securing your financial future. The team at Zdrilich Injury Law has years of experience giving expert legal advice for catastrophic injury compensation. We stand in the gap and fight for your rights, navigating the complex legal landscape so you can focus on recovery. Securing your future after an unexpected tragedy is paramount; it’s also your right. With a Zdrilich ally by your side throughout the process, you’ll find the compassion and support you need for restoration. Contact Us Let us fight for the maximum compensation your case warrants. Contact Zdrilich Injury Law today and turn the tide back in your favor.

How to Fight Back After a Hit and Run in Georgia

By Joseph Zdrilich • 22 Feb, 2024
In 2020, Atlanta experienced over 21,000 auto accidents . A good portion of those were hit and run accidents. Leaving the scene of an accident is highly illegal and leaves frustrated victims wondering what to do next. Facing a hit and run incident is traumatic and infuriating, but in Georgia, you're not left without options. Zdrilich Injury Law has years of experience and in-depth knowledge of the state's legal system and can advise you regarding your rights as a victim. Read on as our expert team shows you how to reclaim control after a hit and run incident. Hit and Run Accidents: What Does Georgia State Law Require? Georgia law leaves no room for misinterpretation. If a hit and run accident occurs, all drivers must stop, help any injured parties, exchange information, and notify the police. Not doing so immediately puts you on the wrong side of the law. As for the victims, don’t despair. You have rights that cannot be denied under the law. Penalties for a Hit and Run in Georgia If you flee the scene of an accident in Georgia, you’re not just facing the possibility of hefty fines but also jail time. These are the legal deterrents to protect victims and punish those who act so selfishly. Georgia Hit and Run Options for Financial Recovery There are several ways victims can seek compensation and restitution. Insurance claims are the most common avenue. But when an insurer fails to provide fair restoration, hit and run assistance programs step in. In situations where compensation falls short in a meaningful way, victims can file a lawsuit. The victim will most likely win if compelling proof of guilt, injuries, and damages is provided. Immediate Actions to Take After a Hit and Run The first moments after a hit and run are crucial. Stay at the accident scene and document everything you see around you and every detail about the fleeing vehicle. Call the police immediately and get medical attention for any injuries, keeping a detailed record of everything you do. Finally, call an injury attorney with vast hit and run accident claims experience. With legal guidance and help, you can concentrate on recovery. Diligently pursuing your rights after a hit and run is key to getting the compensation you deserve. Summary Leaving the scene of an accident without fulfilling your obligations under Georgia law can have serious legal repercussions. Legal protections and rights for hit and run victims come into play when the perpetrator fails in these duties. Get Justice After a Hit and Run – Contact Zdrilich Injury Law Living through the aftermath of a hit and run can leave you distressed and angry. You need expert support and guidance to survive the chaos. That’s where the compassionate legal team at Zdrilich Injury Law can be a godsend. We firmly stand for victim’s rights and will dedicate ourselves to justice on your behalf. Every case is our most important case, including yours. Contact Us Don’t let the confusion and uncertainty of a hit and run stop you from getting the restitution you need. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule a private assessment of your case. With our help, you’ll be a victor, not a victim.

QUESTIONS AFTER TRUCK ACCIDENTS

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need to hire a special truck accident injury lawyer?

    Finding a lawyer with experience in tractor-trailer accidents and auto accidents can make a huge difference in your outcome. It’s also useful to talk with a lawyer who has experience representing clients who have suffered catastrophic head injuries, brain injuries or spine injuries. 


    First, you need a lawyer with the resources to uncover what happened in a collision. Even where liability has been “admitted”, such an admission rarely leads to an agreement on the value of the actual damages in a case. 


    At Zdrilich Injury Law, we move quickly to preserve the evidence of the wreck, including telematic date, video recordings, or other information off of the truck that is often available at the time of the collision but, if the parties do not move quickly, may be lost forever. Where given notice and where a company, or any party, fails to properly secure and preserve important pieces of evidence, it will give rise to a legal presumption that the evidence not saved would have been harmful to the non-preserving party’s case. Lane v. Montgomery Elevator Co., 225 Ga. App. 523, 484 S.E. 2d 249 (1997), J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. v. Bentley, 207 Ga. App 250, 427 S.E. 2d 499 (1992), Bennett v. Associated Food Stores, Inc., 118 Ga App. 711, 165 S.E. 2d 581 (1968) and O.C.G.A. 24-4-22. For instance, if there is a cabin video that is deleted, but is proven to have existed at the time of the collision, the jury must infer that it would have been helpful to the claimant and harmful to the trucking company. None of this can happen unless an experienced lawyer puts the company on timely notice.


    Next, we use top-shelf experts and spend the time and resources required to quickly obtain information to reconstruct what happened in the wreck. Big trucking companies have their experts on call 24-7. You deserve counsel that will pay the same caliber of expert to examine the scene of the wreck and the vehicles involved to find out what actually happened and to hold the trucking companies accountable. Some attorneys do not want to spend the resources to preserve evidence at the time of the collision in case the injuries do not justify the damages. We disagree. We believe it necessary to preserve the data in any event before it is too late. 


    Using investigators, we conduct the kind of background check on the truck driver that their companies should have done in the first place. What we find is often hard to believe: trucking companies do little in the way of due diligence to find out whether its truck drivers have dangerous driving histories, well-documented substance abuse problems, or criminal backgrounds. We are not here to pick on the drivers, but to hold their employers, the truck companies, accountable for their failures and their conscious indifference to the safety of others.


    The factors that contribute to successful resolutions and verdicts in truck accident cases can be complex, and it’s helpful to have a lawyer that understands how to take into account the many variables that could impact the damages in your case. 

  • Why are truck accidents hard to win?

    Regulations and existing laws give trucking companies and insurance companies a lot of advantages over plaintiffs in trucking accident injury cases. For example, if a lawyer doesn’t quickly file suit the trucking company may be able to legally wipe the truck’s black box or coach the driver on their story. 


    The trucking company can afford expensive injury defense attorneys who focus solely on truck accident cases. The insurance company and the trucking company knows that a lot of money and their reputation is on the line if you win, which is why they will do everything they can to make your case difficult. 


    While every case is different, sometimes the smartest move is to file suit quickly. Unlike in typical car wreck cases, where there is a distinct advantage in giving the insurance carrier a chance to arrive at a pre-suit settlement, trucking companies usually have sufficient coverage that the lawyer’s priority must be not on opening up a potential bad faith claim, but on preserving discovery and beginning the process of litigation. Litigating these claims is often the only way to obtain a fair resolution.


    Filing a claim quickly can prevent the trucking company from failing to preserve evidence, and it gives our firm time to thoroughly investigate the wreck and build your case. 

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INJURED? TAKE YOUR LIFE BACK!

Zdrilich Injury Law is committed to helping injured Georgians receive the money they need to recover physically and financially after an accident.

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