{"id":1344,"date":"2026-10-20T01:48:53","date_gmt":"2026-10-20T01:48:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/truck-sideswiped-cut-off-crash-lawyer-georgia\/"},"modified":"2026-11-04T03:14:44","modified_gmt":"2026-11-04T03:14:44","slug":"truck-sideswiped-cut-off-crash-lawyer-georgia","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/truck-sideswiped-cut-off-crash-lawyer-georgia\/","title":{"rendered":"Truck Sideswipe Lane Change Lawyer in Georgia"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-70 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-1343\" alt=\"A federal inspector examines the brake system of a parked eighteen-wheeler at a highway weigh station.\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-24.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-24-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-24-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-24-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-24-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-24.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 825px) 825px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Truck Accidents | Georgia<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Hurt in a Truck Sideswipe or Lane Change Crash?<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. has represented injured Georgians since 1999. Our team focuses on the details of truck sideswipe and lane change collisions in Clayton County, Atlanta, Decatur, Macon and Augusta. Your first consultation is free, confidential and carries no obligation to continue.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17707569311\">Start a Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/contact\/\">Start a Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">About T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C.<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--star chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">1999<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Serving Georgia clients since<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">5<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Offices: Jonesboro, Atlanta, Decatur, Macon, Augusta<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--phone chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">24\/7<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Phone line for case questions<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Terance Madden \u00b7 Published October 19, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>When a truck sideswiped my car, or cut me off and forced me off the road, the crash may still lead to a claim under Georgia law. This page explains how lane-change truck crashes happen, who may be responsible, how Georgia&#8217;s fault rules work, and what evidence matters most. It is written for an injured driver, a passenger, or a family member acting for someone who was hurt. It is general information, not legal advice about your case.<\/p>\n<h2>What a Truck Lane-Change Crash Is and Why It Happens<\/h2>\n<p>A truck lane-change crash starts when a commercial truck moves into space another vehicle is using. Common forms include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Sideswipes:<\/strong> the side of the truck strikes the side of your car.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cut-offs:<\/strong> the truck pulls in front of you, and you must brake hard or swerve.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Forced merges:<\/strong> a truck merges at a ramp or lane drop and pushes you onto the shoulder or into a barrier.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wide turns:<\/strong> a truck swings into the next lane to turn and hits a car beside it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Large trucks have blind spots on the right side, directly behind the trailer, and at the front right. A vehicle in those areas can disappear from the driver&#8217;s mirrors.<\/p>\n<p>Many of these crashes involve habits that can be avoided, such as distraction, fatigue, speeding, poor mirror use, and merging without checking blind spots. Federal rules limit some of these habits. Drivers of commercial motor vehicles may not text while driving under the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-06\/title-49\/section-392.80\">federal texting rule<\/a>, except when necessary to communicate with law enforcement officials or other emergency services. Drivers may not operate a truck when fatigue, illness, or another cause makes it unsafe, under the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-06\/title-49\/section-392.3\">federal fatigue rule<\/a>. Every bus, truck, and truck tractor must carry two rear-vision mirrors, one on each side, under the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-06\/title-49\/section-393.80\">federal mirror rule<\/a>, except that trucks built so the driver can see to the rear through an interior mirror need only one outside mirror, on the driver&#8217;s side.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a truck sideswiped your car or cut you off, you may have a claim, and our team can talk it through with you at no cost. Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17707569311\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/rain-soaked-row-of-parked-semi-trucks-in-a-black-and-white-l-photo-1.jpg\" alt=\"Black and white photo of a row of parked semi trucks in a rainy lot.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Who Can Be Held Responsible<\/h2>\n<p>The truck driver can be responsible. In some cases, the company that employed or dispatched the driver can be responsible too.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The driver<\/strong>, who changed lanes or turned without a safe gap.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The motor carrier or employer<\/strong>, when the driver was working and company decisions about hiring, training, dispatch, or supervision played a part.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Other parties<\/strong>, such as a maintenance contractor or cargo loader, where their work contributed to the crash.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A lane-change crash can involve more than one insurance policy. Your own uninsured motorist coverage may also matter, as explained below.<\/p>\n<h2>How Georgia Fault Rules Apply to Lane-Change Crashes<\/h2>\n<p>Georgia reduces your damages by your share of fault. It bars recovery if you are 50 percent or more responsible (O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gasupreme.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/s19g1612.pdf\">Quynn v. Hulsey, 310 Ga. 473 (2020)<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t51-(v39)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33<\/a>, the judge reduces the damages in proportion to your percentage of fault. If you are 50 percent or more responsible, you may not receive any damages. The jury must also consider the fault of everyone who contributed to the crash, even people who were not named in the suit. A defendant may name a nonparty at fault by giving notice not later than 120 days before trial. The notice shall be given by filing a pleading in the action designating the nonparty and setting forth the nonparty\u2019s name and last known address, or the best identification of the nonparty which is possible under the circumstances, together with a brief statement of the basis for believing the nonparty to be at fault.<\/p>\n<p>Insurers often argue that the injured driver drifted, followed too closely, or sat in a blind spot. How a fault split works turns on the facts. Photos, data, witness statements, and the police report are the best answer to those arguments.<\/p>\n<p>Georgia also sets a time limit. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t9-ch1-10-(v6)-2023-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 9-3-33<\/a>, actions for injuries to the person must be brought within two years after the right of action accrues, except loss-of-consortium actions (four years) and injuries to reputation (one year). Early action helps protect evidence that can disappear over time.<\/p>\n<h2>Evidence That Matters Most in the First Days<\/h2>\n<p>The most useful evidence is often the kind that disappears first: scene photos, the crash report, and truck data.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Police report and crash diagram.<\/strong> Note whether the truck driver was cited. Georgia&#8217;s official crash form is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dot.ga.gov\/DriveSmart\/CrashReporting\/GeorgiaUniformVehicleAccidentReport.pdf\">Georgia Uniform Vehicle Accident Report<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Photos<\/strong> of both vehicles, lane markings, skid marks, and debris, taken before the scene changes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Video<\/strong> from a dashcam, nearby vehicles, or business cameras.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Truck electronic data.<\/strong> A truck&#8217;s electronic control module can record speed, braking, and steering inputs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Driver records.<\/strong> Motor carriers must install and require electronic logging devices (ELDs) for drivers, subject to listed exceptions, under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-06\/title-49\/section-395.8\">49 C.F.R. \u00a7 395.8<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Witnesses and medical records.<\/strong> Get names and phone numbers, and start treatment promptly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Georgia&#8217;s Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire advises drivers to notify police and their insurer promptly, collect witness information, document the scene, and avoid statements about fault in its <a href=\"https:\/\/oci.georgia.gov\/insurance-resources\/auto\/auto-claim-tips\">auto claim tips<\/a>. Early recorded statements to an adjuster can shape a claim. Talk with a lawyer before giving one.<\/p>\n<h2>What a Lane-Change Truck Claim Can Include<\/h2>\n<p>A claim can seek money for medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Medical expenses<\/strong>, from emergency care through imaging, surgery, rehabilitation, and future treatment supported by medical records.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lost wages<\/strong> and any reduced ability to earn in the future.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Vehicle losses<\/strong>, including repair or replacement, rental, towing, and personal property.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Punitive damages<\/strong> in some cases. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t51-(v39)-2017-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-5.1<\/a>, they may be awarded only if clear and convincing evidence shows willful misconduct, malice, fraud, wantonness, oppression, or conscious indifference. They punish the defendant rather than compensate the injured person.<\/li>\n<li>Coverage depends on your own policy under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t33-ch1-22-(v24)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 33-7-11<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hit-and-run cases.<\/strong> If the truck driver is unknown, O.C.G.A. \u00a7 33-7-11 provides for an action against an unknown owner or operator named as &#8220;John Doe,&#8221; and the driver can be named once identified.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wrongful death.<\/strong> If the crash causes a death, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t51-(v39)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-4-2<\/a> lets the surviving spouse or, if there is no surviving spouse, a child or children, either minor or sui juris, recover for the homicide of the spouse or parent the full value of the life of the decedent, as shown by the evidence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>How the Claim Process Usually Unfolds<\/h2>\n<p>A lane-change claim usually moves from a first consultation to evidence preservation, investigation, a demand to the insurer, and a lawsuit if needed.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>First consultation.<\/strong> You describe the crash, your injuries, and the insurance details. The first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Preservation.<\/strong> Letters go to the truck company and insurers asking them to keep logs, dispatch messages, and truck data.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Investigation.<\/strong> The team collects the police report and medical records and reviews truck data. Crash reconstruction may be used when the facts are disputed.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Demand.<\/strong> A demand package goes to the insurer, followed by negotiation over fault and damages.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Suit.<\/strong> If a fair resolution is not reached, a lawsuit is filed before the deadline. Discovery, mediation, or trial can follow.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Simple claims can settle in months. Contested truck cases often take longer. The pace turns on injuries, fault disputes, and insurance positions.<\/p>\n<p>T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. works on a no fee unless we win basis. The client may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17707569311\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Why Work With T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C.<\/h2>\n<p>T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. is a Georgia personal injury firm led by attorney Terance Madden, in practice since 1999.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Offices<\/strong> in Jonesboro (Clayton County), Atlanta, Decatur, Macon, and Augusta.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Practice areas<\/strong> include car and truck accidents, motorcycle and e-bike crashes, slip and falls, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, negligent security, and wrongful death.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Our team<\/strong>, including support staff who handle records requests, scheduling, and client communication, supports each case.<\/li>\n<li><strong>A phone line available 24\/7<\/strong>, so an injured person can call when a crash happens at night or on a weekend.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Direct answers<\/strong> to your questions about the claim process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-mechanic-works-on-a-red-truck-raised-on-a-lift-in-a-busy-r-photo.jpg\" alt=\"A red truck being serviced in a garage, with a mechanic working near elevated vehicles.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Lane-Change Truck Crashes<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Whose fault is it when a truck changes lanes into my car?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fault depends on the facts, including the truck&#8217;s lane change and where your car was. Georgia&#8217;s fault-sharing rules then reduce or divide damages.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I sue if the truck driver left the scene?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It may be possible. If the driver is unknown, Georgia&#8217;s uninsured motorist statute, O.C.G.A. \u00a7 33-7-11, provides that an action may be brought against an unknown owner or operator named as &#8220;John Doe.&#8221; O.C.G.A. \u00a7 33-7-11 reads: &#8220;provided that the bringing of an action against the unknown owner or operator as \u201cJohn Doe\u201d or the conclusion of such an action shall not constitute a bar to the insured, if the identity of the owner or operator who caused the injury or damages complained of becomes known, bringing an action against the owner or operator theretofore proceeded against as \u201cJohn Doe\u201d; provided, further, that any recovery against such owner or operator shall be paid to the insurance company to the extent that the insurance company paid the named insured in the action brought against the owner or operator as \u201cJohn Doe,\u201d except that the insurance company shall pay its proportionate part of any reasonable costs and expense incurred in connection therewith, including reasonable attorney\u2019s fees.&#8221;<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How long do I have to file?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Georgia generally gives two years for injury lawsuits under O.C.G.A. \u00a7 9-3-33.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I still recover if I was partly at fault?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, unless your share of fault is 50 percent or more (O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gasupreme.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/s19g1612.pdf\">Quynn v. Hulsey, 310 Ga. 473 (2020)<\/a>). Your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault (O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gasupreme.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/s19g1612.pdf\">Quynn v. Hulsey, 310 Ga. 473 (2020)<\/a>).<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I sue the trucking company as well as the driver?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It may be possible. The answer depends on who employed the driver and what the company did or failed to do.<\/p><p>If a truck sideswiped your car or cut you off, you may have a claim, and you do not have to work out the next steps alone. Contact T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. through the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/contact\/\">contact page<\/a> to start a free case evaluation.<\/p><\/details><p><em>General information only, not legal advice. Responsible lawyer: Terance Madden, T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. Contact: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/contact\/\">tmaddenlaw.com\/contact<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n<\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Please consult a licensed Georgia attorney regarding your specific legal situation. T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C., 114 S. Main St., Jonesboro, GA 30236, (770) 978-6711.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">How Our Firm Works With You<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Georgia Truck Crash Focus<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our practice handles truck and commercial vehicle collisions across Georgia, including sideswipes and lane change crashes on highways and city streets.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Evidence Gathering<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our team works to preserve crash reports, photos, dashcam footage and driver logs that can show how the collision happened.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">No Fees Unless There Is a Recovery<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You pay no attorney fees unless there is a recovery. You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses, and we will explain these before you decide.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--chat\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Clear Communication<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We keep you informed about your case and answer your questions in plain language, from the first call through resolution.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Be Careful Before You Speak to the Trucking Company<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Insurance adjusters for trucking companies may contact you quickly and ask for a recorded statement. Speak with a lawyer before you give one or sign any release.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17707569311\">Talk to Terance Madden for Free<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/contact\/\">Talk to Terance Madden for Free<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">After a Truck Sideswipe or Lane Change Crash<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get Medical Care<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some injuries, including back, neck and head injuries, may not show symptoms right away. A medical evaluation creates an important record of your condition.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Document the Scene<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you can, photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks and the truck&#x27;s position. Note the time, weather and nearby traffic cameras.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Record Witness Details<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Write down names and phone numbers for anyone who saw the crash. Note the truck&#x27;s company name, unit number and license plate.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Call Our Team<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Contact T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. for a free, confidential consultation. We will review what happened and explain your options.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-secondary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--secondary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Injured in a Truck Lane Change Crash? Call Us Today, Any Hour<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17707569311\">Start Your Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/contact\/\">Start Your Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/\">Truck Accident Lawyer in Georgia: Who Pays, Your Deadline, and What to Do Now<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/punitive-damages-truck-crash-georgia\/\">Can You Get Punitive Damages in a Georgia Truck Crash?<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/truck-tire-blowout-parts-maker-lawsuit-georgia\/\">Can I Sue a Truck Parts Maker After a Tire Blowout or Defective Part in Georgia?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/trucking-accident-lawyer-contingency-fee-georgia\/\">Trucking Accident Lawyer Contingency Fee Georgia<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/trucking-company-adjuster-call-after-wreck-georgia\/\">Can a Trucking Company&#x27;s Insurance Adjuster Call Me After a Wreck in Georgia?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/trucking-company-adjuster-called-me-after-crash-georgia\/\">What to Do When a Trucking Company&#x27;s Adjuster Calls You After a Crash in Georgia<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/trucking-company-adjuster-called-what-to-say-georgia\/\">The Trucking Company&#x27;s Adjuster Called Me After My Crash: What Should I Say in Georgia?<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hurt when a truck sideswiped or cut you off in Georgia? Learn how lane-change crashes are proven, who may be responsible, and what to do next.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":18,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"","chg_jsonld":"[{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Terance Madden\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/tmaddenlaw.com\/attorneys\/terance-madden\", \"jobTitle\": \"Personal Injury Lawyer\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.gabar.org\/member-directory\/?id=43995\", \"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/T-Madden-Associates-PC\/119108114789574\", \"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/tmaddenlaw\", \"https:\/\/twitter.com\/tmaddenlaw\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"T. 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If the driver is unknown, Georgia\u2019s uninsured motorist statute, O.C.G.A. \u00a7 33-7-11, provides that an action may be brought against an unknown owner or operator named as \u201cJohn Doe.\u201d O.C.G.A. \u00a7 33-7-11 reads: \u201cprovided that the bringing of an action against the unknown owner or operator as \u201cJohn Doe\u201d or the conclusion of such an action shall not constitute a bar to the insured, if the identity of the owner or operator who caused the injury or damages complained of becomes known, bringing an action against the owner or operator theretofore proceeded against as \u201cJohn Doe\u201d; provided, further, that any recovery against such owner or operator shall be paid to the insurance company to the extent that the insurance company paid the named insured in the action brought against the owner or operator as \u201cJohn Doe,\u201d except that the insurance company shall pay its proportionate part of any reasonable costs and expense incurred in connection therewith, including reasonable attorney\u2019s fees.\u201d\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long do I have to file?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Georgia generally gives two years for injury lawsuits under O.C.G.A. \u00a7 9-3-33.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I still recover if I was partly at fault?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes, unless your share of fault is 50 percent or more (O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33; Quynn v. Hulsey, 310 Ga. 473 (2020)). Your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault (O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33; Quynn v. Hulsey, 310 Ga. 473 (2020)).\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I sue the trucking company as well as the driver?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"It may be possible. The answer depends on who employed the driver and what the company did or failed to do. If a truck sideswiped your car or cut you off, you may have a claim, and you do not have to work out the next steps alone. Contact T. 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