Vinings Truck Accident Lawyer
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), using data on trucks traveling on public roadways from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 4,311 large trucks (and buses) involved in fatal crashes in 2015, an eight percent increase from the year before.
If you are involved in a truck accident in Vinings, speak with an experienced attorney. A Vinings truck accident lawyer may investigate both the driver and trucking company. Although the driver may have acted negligently, the company may also have acted inappropriately by allowing the driver’s impairment or incompetence on a public road. Any impairment may lead to poor judgment and unnecessary risks.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Although truck accidents can be the result of numerous causes, when it is the result of negligence or recklessness, the driver or trucking company may be held liable for the damage. There are some common examples of negligence that may lead to truck accidents.
Although Georgia law does not explicitly prohibit cell phone use while driving, cell phones are distractions. In fact, insurance companies will often concede liability if a truck driver was using a cell phone that caused him or her to be distracted and caused a collision.
Truck drivers’ attention may also be impaired by sleep deprivation, reducing their ability to react quickly to dangers or risks on the road. It is possible that the trucking company did not follow federal rules regarding the maximum hours a truck driver may driver each shift. These rules called the hours of service rules, require that truck drivers to:
- Only drive a maximum of 11 hours each day
- Not work for ten consecutive hours before starting a new shift
- Not start a new shift after being on duty for 60 hours in seven days or 70 hours in eight days
The use of alcohol, drugs or non-prescription medications to stay awake may also impair a driver’s reaction time and driving ability. Speak with a Vinings truck accident lawyer to learn more.
Licensing and Training
A truck driver needs the proper license registration and must complete the required training. Driving a truck is very different from driving a car and safety is of utmost concern to prevent a collision of a rollover.
An impairment might cause the driver to drive too fast, not properly consider inclement weather, or load his cargo incorrectly. They also might depower the front brakes to limit the wear and tear on the tires. These are all dangerous situations for other vehicles trucks are sharing the road with.
Statute of Limitations
After a truck accident, a victim must file a claim for any injuries within the statutory time limit. In Georgia, an injured party must file his or her claim within two years from the date of the accident, or risk losing the ability to seek compensation. Consult with a Vinings truck accident lawyer today.
Speak with a Vinings Truck Accident Attorney Today
Truck accidents often cause catastrophic injuries. When these accidents are the result of a truck driver or company’s negligence, they may be liable for the damage that ensues. If you suffered an injury in a truck crash, contact a lawyer to discuss your options.
The Vinings truck accident lawyers from our firm will make sure you receive the medical treatment you need while you focus on your recovery and will work to make the process as easy as possible for you. We are available anytime to help you recover from your harm due to another person’s negligence. After a truck accident, contact a team of devoted experienced lawyers to understand your options.
