Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer

T. Madden & Associates, P.C. > Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck on its Side After AccidentColliding into a commercial truck can change your life in a second. These massive vehicles can cause devastating injuries, leaving victims overwhelmed with financial burdens. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you deserve an attorney who will fight for the compensation you need.

Getting an experienced Atlanta truck accident attorney on your side can help ensure that your rights are protected and you have the best chance of receiving maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. 

Truck accidents are complex. They require quality legal oversight. Don’t want to get the help you need. Call us today at 706-807-1998 to schedule a free consultation and get started.

Why Choose Our Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers? 

When you’re struggling to navigate the aftermath of a truck accident, having the right legal team by your side can provide clarity and reduce stress. At T. Madden & Associates, led by Attorney Terance Madden, our Atlanta personal injury law firm is dedicated to delivering exceptional representation for truck accident victims. 

Here’s why clients trust our injury lawyers to handle their cases:

Proven Results for Clients

Our Atlanta truck accident attorneys have secured multi-million-dollar settlements for our clients, including a $3.25 million recovery for a father and son hit by a semi-truck. We know how to counter aggressive insurance companies and build strong cases that hold negligent parties accountable.

Extensive Experience in Truck Accident Cases

Truck accident claims involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and insurance providers. Our extensive experience allows us to identify all liable parties and build strategic cases that hold them accountable.

Personalized Attention and Compassionate Advocacy

At T. Madden & Associates, our clients are more than just case numbers. We take the time to understand your unique story and legal needs, crafting personalized strategies tailored to your circumstances. Known for their compassion, our attorneys, provide unwavering support during some of the most difficult times in your life.

Knowledge of Federal and State Trucking Regulations

Photo of a client-attorney meeting-imgTruck accidents often involve violations of regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Georgia state laws. Our attorneys are well-versed in these complex rules and know how to use violations—such as hours-of-service infractions or improper vehicle maintenance—to strengthen your claim and maximize your compensation.

If you’re searching for accident attorneys who will fight tirelessly for your rights, our Atlanta semi-truck accident attorneys are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you toward the justice and compensation you deserve.

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Areas We Serve

Our Atlanta personal injury law firm is proud to represent truck accident victims across Atlanta and surrounding areas, including:

  • Downtown Atlanta
  • Buckhead
  • Midtown Atlanta
  • Sandy Springs
  • Decatur
  • Marietta
  • Duluth
  • Alpharetta
  • College Park
  • East Point

Our trucking accident attorneys are dedicated to helping victims throughout the metro area. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in one of these locations or anywhere in Georgia, contact us today for experienced and compassionate legal representation.

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Free Consultation. No Fees Unless We Win.

T. Madden & Associates, P.C

What Should I Do Immediately After Being Involved in a Truck Accident in Atlanta?

Taking the right steps immediately after a tractor trailer accident can help ensure your safety, protect your rights, and gather necessary information for any potential legal claims against the negligent party responsible. Here’s what you should do immediately after being involved in a truck accident in Atlanta:

  • Check for injuries and call 911: Prioritize your safety. Move to a secure location and if possible, call an emergency responder for help.
  • Call law enforcement: A police report is crucial for insurance claims and legal actions. Always report the accident, even if it seems minor.
  • Exchange information: Get the truck driver’s name, phone number, insurance details, company information, and license plate number.
  • Document the scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. 
  • Get witness contact information: Their statements can support your version of events to strengthen your case.
  • Seek medical attention: Some injuries take longer to appear. Delaying medical treatment can impact both your health and claim.
  • Avoid admitting fault: Do not apologize or take blame. Liability can be complex and should be determined through investigation.
  • Report the accident to insurance: Notify your insurance company but avoid making any speculative statements about who is at fault.
  • Preserve evidence: If it’s possible, don’t repair your vehicle until it’s been inspected by your insurance company.
  • Document medical treatment: Keep detailed records of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses related to the accident.
  • Contact an attorney: Trucking companies and insurers will fight for your claim. Get legal help early to protect your rights and maximize compensation. 

Remember that trucking accidents can involve complex liability issues and multiple parties, including trucking companies and their insurers. Having an experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyer on your side can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What Parties Can Be Held Liable in an Atlanta Truck Accident Case?

Truck accidents can involve multiple parties, each potentially contributing to the cause of the accident. Here are a few potential defendants that can be held liable in a trucking accident case with help from a resourceful and capable Atlanta truck accident attorney:

  • A commercial truck driver, driving while interacting with his cellphone.Truck driver: Can be liable if they were distracted, fatigued, speeding, or driving under the influence at the time of the accident. Also if they violated trucking laws, like working above the mandatory limit.
  • Trucking company: Responsible if they failed to properly train drivers, enforced unsafe schedules, or neglected truck maintenance. 
  • Truck owner: If the truck is owned by a separate company, they may be responsible for failing to inspect, maintain, or repair the vehicle.
  • Truck manufacturer: Can be held liable if defective brakes, tires, or steering systems contributed to the crash. Design and manufacturing defects can make an accident worse.
  • Maintenance and repair companies: If a third-party repair service failed to inspect, service, or repair the truck, they could be responsible for any mechanical failures linked to the crash.
  • Cargo loaders: Improperly loaded cargo can shift unexpectedly, cause rollovers, or fall onto the roadway.
  • Government entities: If poorly maintained roads, missing signs, or a dangerous highway condition contributed to the accident, whatever government agency is responsible for road upkeep may be held liable.

Determining liability in a commercial motor vehicle accident case is significantly different from car accidents or motorcycle accidents. In particular, establishing vicarious liability of the trucking company can be more complex, involving thorough investigation, analysis of evidence, accident reconstruction, and expert testimonies. 

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Atlanta, getting legal representation from an experienced truck accident attorney is vital to protect your right to either economic or non economic damages.

Importance of Black Box Data in Truck Accident Claims

Commercial trucks are equipped with black boxes that record speed, braking, and driving behavior before a crash. This data is critical in proving if the truck was speeding, making unsafe maneuvers, or violating federal regulations.

Our legal team ensures this evidence is preserved and used to make your case is even stronger by:

  • Reconstructing the crash: Black boxes capture vital details like speed, braking patterns, acceleration, and steering. An accident reconstruction specialist can use this data to recreate the sequence of events leading up to the collision.
  • Proving violations: Truck drivers must follow strict driving time limits to prevent fatigue. Black boxes can show if a driver exceeded their legal driving hours.
  • Identifying mechanical failures: Black box data may show previous maintenance issues or malfunctions. This can help link improper upkeep to the accident.

Given its significance, obtaining black box data should be a priority in truck accident investigations. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help ensure that this evidence is preserved, analyzed, and used effectively to build a strong case on your behalf. 

What Are Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Atlanta?

There are many different reasons why truck accidents happen in Atlanta. Some of these causes stem from negligence and preventable circumstances while others are due to the intentional actions of a bad faith actor.

Some of the most common causes seen across the city include:

  • Driver fatigue: Truckers sometimes push past legal driving limits to meet tight deadlines. This increases the risk of drifting into another lane of failing to hit the brakes in time if they are tired.
  • Distracted driving: Using a GPS, making a phone call, or eating while driving can divert a driver’s attention from the road and lead to a crash.
  • Improper loading or overloading: This can unbalance and destabilize a truck, causing rollovers or loss of control.
  • Speeding and reckless driving: Large trucks require more stopping distance. High speeds make sudden traffic changes harder to react to. This can increase the crash’s severity.
  • Inadequate truck maintenance: Skipping routine inspections can lead to faulty brakes, worn tires, or defective lights. This can cause preventable accidents.
  • Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drug use can impair reaction times and judgement. Trucking companies must share liability if they fail to enforce strict drug or alcohol policies.

What Kind Of Injuries Can You Get From Truck Related Accidents?

Big Truck Accident with a Lot of DamageAt T. Madden & Associates, our experienced Atlanta semi-truck accident lawyers recognize the profound and varied injuries that can arise from collisions with these massive commercial vehicles. In Atlanta, we’ve seen firsthand the severe outcomes these accidents can cause, including:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even a mild concussion can cause memory loss, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. Severe brain injuries may require long-term rehabilitation and affect a victim’s ability to work or live independently.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis. This makes everyday tasks more challenging to complete. Many victims require lifelong medical care, assistive devices, or home modifications to adjust to these new conditions.
  • Broken Bones: Fractures from a truck accident can be very painful and debilitating. Many require surgery, months of recovery, and physical therapy. This can impact a victim’s ability to work or care for their family.
  • Internal Bleeding: Some of the most dangerous injuries are hidden, like internal bleeding. These symptoms may not show immediately but can quickly become life-threatening if not treated urgently.
  • Severe Burns: If a truck crash leads to a fire, victims may suffer excruciating burns that require skin grafts and specialized treatment. Beyond dealing with physical pain, burn survivors often face permanent scarring.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Truck accidents can be psychologically devastating. Many victims suffer from flashbacks, anxiety, and difficulty getting behind the wheel again.

At T. Madden & Associates, our 18-wheeler accident lawyers are dedicated to guiding our clients through these challenging times with empathy and experience, ensuring they secure the compensation necessary for their recovery and future well-being.

How a Lawyer Can Help You With Your Truck Accident Claim 

Truck accident cases are often more complicated to manage than a standard car accident claim. This is because larger truck accidents may deal with multiple parties and increased damage due to the sheer size of these vehicles. When you have a truck accident lawyer on your side to help manage these specifics, it can help you secure the full extent of the compensation that is rightfully yours.

Here is how: 

Investigate the Accident

An experienced truck accident lawyer starts by conducting a thorough investigation into the accident. This includes gathering critical pieces of evidence, like police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage that might have caught the incident on camera. They may also work with expert witnesses, like an accident reconstructionist, who can help them better understand what factors influenced the truck crash. This can help determine who is liable. 

Identifying Liable Parties

It’s not uncommon for a truck accident to involve more than one at-fault party. While the truck driver might be found negligent for driving while fatigued, the truck company itself could be found liable for pushing their drivers to work longer than what is legally allowed. If this pressure can be linked to a driver becoming tired while driving and crashing, this is an example of a situation where liability can be split between multiple entities.

Dealing with Insurance Companies 

Trucking companies and the insurance groups that represent them are often backed by aggressive legal teams that try to find any opportunity possible to minimize payouts. To combat these tactics, an experienced truck accident attorney knows how to negotiate with these entities and advocate for their clients to receive the full extent of the damages they incurred. 

An attorney can take over all communications with the insurance companies to supervise the process and ensure you don’t accept a lowball settlement. 

Calculating Your Damages

It’s very common for truck accidents to result in severe injuries and extensive property damage. A lawyer knows how to assess both economic and non-economic bills. Exploring both areas for reimbursement, like medical bills for physical injuries and therapy sessions for mental health conditions, ensures that the court fully understands how much damage the truck accident has caused. A lawyer should advocate for you to receive the full amount of compensation you deserve. 

Representing You in Court 

While it’s true that many truck accident claims are resolved through negotiated settlements, sometimes, a case might need to advance through the court system. When this happens, your lawyer can represent you in court by presenting evidence and verbally advocating for your rights. Having someone who is experienced in truck accident law and courtroom procedures is a huge advantage to ensure that your case is effectively argued before the judge makes a verdict. 

How Do I Begin the Process of Filing a Truck Accident Claim in Atlanta?

Truck Accident With Small VehicleFiling a personal injury claim in Atlanta involves several important steps to ensure that your rights are protected and you have the best chance of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Here’s how you can begin the process:

Seek Medical Attention

The first thing you need to do is seek medical attention for your injuries, especially if you suffered injuries to either your spinal cord or head. Document all medical treatments, diagnoses, and health insurance expenses related to the accident.

Collect Evidence

Gather as much evidence from the accident scene as possible. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries. If there were witnesses, collect their contact information. Your attorney will use investigators to collect other types of evidence.

Contact the Police

If you haven’t already, report the accident to law enforcement. Your attorney will obtain a copy of the police report, as it can provide important details about the accident.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company to report the accident. Take care to only report the facts, without offering any subjective opinions. Do not agree to provide the insurer with a recorded statement unless you have legal representation.

Identify Liable Parties

Your Atlanta truck accident lawyer will work to identify all potentially liable parties, which could include the semi truck driver, trucking company, truck owner, manufacturers, and others.

Demand Letter

An experienced attorney will draft a demand letter outlining your injuries, damages, and the compensation you’re seeking.

Negotiation

Your attorney will advocate for your best interests during negotiations with the defendants and their insurers, and ensure you’re not pressured into accepting an inadequate offer.

Filing a Lawsuit

If negotiations do not result in a satisfactory settlement, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit to pursue compensation through the court system. This step involves legal proceedings, discovery, and potentially going to trial.

Depending on the outcome of negotiations or a trial, your case will be resolved through a settlement or a court verdict.
If a settlement is reached, your attorney will assist with finalizing the agreement. 

If you lost a loved one in a truck accident, you may want to speak with an Atlanta wrongful death lawsuit attorney to learn more about the process.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim? 

A clock and calendar indicating a deadline.The statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim in Georgia is two years from when the incident happened. This time limit is specifically applied to personal injury claims where someone is looking to be compensated for the medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering they endured as a result of the truck accident. If you are looking to receive more funds specific to property damage, this statute is doubled to give you four years to file a claim.

While this may seem like a generous time period, it’s still important to act quickly after being involved in a truck accident. Trying to obtain evidence like witness statements and surveillance footage can be more difficult the closer you are to the expiration date as it would have been right after the incident happened.

Promptly hiring an attorney can help secure evidence that strengthens your case early on, leaving no time for your evidence to be destroyed or made ineligible.  

Atlanta Truck Accident Statistics for 2024

Truck accidents in Atlanta remain a serious threat to public safety, as they can lead to devastating consequences. The numbers below help to highlight the severity of this issue and the need for stronger safety measures and legal advocacy.

  • 8,389 truck-related crashes occurred in Atlanta in 2024. That’s an average of nearly 23 crashes per day involving large trucks.
  • 166 of these crashes were fatal, meaning nearly one deadly truck accident every two days.
  • Speeding contributed to 23% of truck accidents in 2023, showing how reckless driving remains a leading factor in these collisions.

Where Do Truck Accidents Commonly Occur in Atlanta?

Truck accidents are unfortunately common in certain high-traffic areas and highways in and around Atlanta. The city’s bustling roadways and intersections make it a hotspot for large vehicle collisions. Some of the most common areas for truck accidents include:

  • Interstate 285 (I-285): Known as the Perimeter, this major beltway around Atlanta sees heavy truck traffic and frequent accidents due to congestion and high speeds.
  • Interstate 85 (I-85): A primary route for commercial trucks, I-85 often experiences accidents caused by lane changes, merging traffic, and driver fatigue.
  • Interstate 75 (I-75): This busy interstate, especially near Downtown Atlanta, is a frequent site for truck accidents due to its high volume of vehicles and complex interchanges.
  • Interstate 20 (I-20): Connecting Atlanta to other parts of Georgia, I-20 is another high-risk area for truck accidents, especially at exit ramps and junctions.
  • Peachtree Industrial Boulevard: This roadway, which connects multiple areas in Atlanta, is prone to accidents involving commercial vehicles navigating heavy urban traffic.
  • Georgia State Route 400 (GA-400): A major artery for commuters and trucks, GA-400 is often the scene of collisions due to frequent congestion and construction zones.

Common Types of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents happen for many different reasons across Atlanta. Each of them have their own unique causes and consequences for those involved.

Some of the most common types of truck accidents include:

Jackknife Accident

A jackknife accident happens when the trailer of a commercial truck swings out to form a 90-degree angle. It gets this name from resembling a pocket knife. These accidents can be caused by a truck driver having to suddenly brake or dodge slippery road conditions. Jackknife incidents can block multiple lanes of traffic, potentially causing a multi-car pileup.

Rollover Accidents

A rollover accident happens when a truck tips over onto its side and crashes. This happens when a truck driver takes too sharp of a turn at a high speed or is forced to suddenly maneuver the truck to avoid an obstacle on the road. Rollovers frequently happen on highways and curves around Atlanta where speed and balance are critical.

Rear-end Collisions

Large trucks require a greater stopping distance when compared to traditional vehicles. This makes rear-end collisions more common when a truck fails to stop in time and crashes into the back of another vehicle. This can cause devastating impacts for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.

Underride Accidents

An underside accident is one of the most deadly truck accidents. It happens when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of a truck. This can be due to the truck making a sudden stop or from poor visibility. The severity of these accidents is why many trucks are equipped with underride guards.

Can I Handle a Truck Accident Claim Without a Lawyer?

While it is technically possible to handle a truck accident claim on your own, it is not advisable. Truck accidents are complex, and the process of securing compensation can be challenging. 

These types of serious accidents often involve multiple negligent parties, complex liability issues, and potentially significant damages. Having an experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyer on your side can greatly increase the likelihood of receiving fair compensation.

Experienced personal injury lawyers can help truck accident victims obtain the compensation they need for medical expenses or non economic damages like lost wages, and pain and suffering through a negligence claim.

Strong Results and Satisfied Clients

Truck Hitting BridgeAt T. Madden & Associates, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional results and providing our clients with the best possible service. Our track record speaks for itself:

  • A father and son had a terrible Valentine’s Day when they found themselves victims of a trucking collision. T. Madden & Associates took on their case, which ultimately resulted in the clients receiving over $3.25 MILLION in compensation.
  • Local truck operator was involved in a serious motor vehicle collision with another 18-wheeler, pushing the vehicle through a guardrail off the road and causing it to catch fire. Despite the limited injury (a left shoulder injury), T. Madden & Associates was able to recover $205,000 for the client.

“Suffered injuries with a semi-truck, called this law firm. They took care of my case. Great people.”- Scott Kahn

These are just a few examples of the life-changing results we’ve helped achieve for our clients. We are committed to fighting for justice and securing the compensation you deserve after a truck accident.

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Our Capable and Resourceful Truck Accident Lawyers are Ready to Fight for You

Time is of the essence in truck accident cases. Evidence can disappear, and trucking companies will begin working on their defense right away. Don’t wait to get help. At T. Madden & Associates can provide you with strong legal representation and help you obtain the largest possible compensation you deserve. 

Call 706-807-1998 today for a free consultation or reach us online and let us fight for you.

FAQs

What Makes Truck Accidents Different From Car Accidents?

Truck accidents are very different from car accidents, mostly due to the size and weight of these vehicles when compared to your more standard sedan. Because of this difference, these vehicles can cause much more damage and lead to catastrophic injuries. From an insurance standpoint, policies for commercial trucks typically have higher limits. This can make negotiations with insurers more challenging if you don’t hire an attorney.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Truck Accident?

After you have been involved in a truck accident, ensure that you do not admit fault at the scene. Even if you believe you partially contributed to causing the accident, the fault should be determined through investigation, not your own admission. Anything you say at the scene of the incident could be used against you in court by opposing counsel. Be sure to collect evidence before the accident is cleaned up, like photos of each vehicle’s position.

Can I Sue a Trucking Company Directly?

Yes, there are many instances where you would have the authority to sue a trucking company, depending on the details of your case. One such case is where their negligence contributed to the accident. Trucking companies could be liable for specific actions like failing to maintain their vehicles properly or hiring unqualified drivers to fill these roles. When you sue a trucking company, it can give you access to larger insurance policies to help cover your damages.

What Should I Do If a Truck Accident Causes the Death of a Loved One?

If you lose someone you love in a trucking accident, you can work with a lawyer to file a wrongful death claim in Georgia. This will allow you to seek extra expenses that are generated from cases with fatalities, such as funeral expenses and loss of financial support. These claims are generally brought forth by surviving family members, like a spouse, child, or parent. A wrongful death claim can help provide financial stability during these difficult times.

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T. Madden & Associates, P.C has an answer for all of your legal questions! We are a Personal Injury firm, so we handle many types of injury cases from auto collisions to wrongful death! If you or someone you know is injured, T. Madden & Associates, P.C. can help.

We are proud to offer free case reviews to anyone who may have questions before getting started. Additionally, if we do take on your case, we promise we won’t charge you a penny unless we recover compensation for your claim.
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