{"id":675,"date":"2026-10-18T04:06:44","date_gmt":"2026-10-18T04:06:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/owner-operator-truck-crash-lawyer-georgia\/"},"modified":"2026-11-06T12:42:11","modified_gmt":"2026-11-06T12:42:11","slug":"owner-operator-truck-crash-lawyer-georgia","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/owner-operator-truck-crash-lawyer-georgia\/","title":{"rendered":"Owner Operator Truck Accident Lawyer Georgia | T. Madden"},"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-60 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-674\" alt=\"A federal inspector examines the brake system of a parked eighteen-wheeler at a highway weigh station at midday.\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-15.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-15-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-15-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-15-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-15-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-15.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)\">Owner-Operator Truck Accident Lawyer \u00b7 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 by an Owner-Operator Truck? Talk to Our Team Before the Trucking Company Does.<\/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 people injured in Georgia wrecks since 1999. Your first consultation is free, confidential, and comes with 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 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><\/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\">Serving Georgia Since 1999<\/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\">Year the practice began<\/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\">Georgia 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\">Call us around the clock<\/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 18, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>If a semi-truck driven by an owner-operator hurt you or someone you love, the driver is often not the only party who may be responsible. An owner-operator owns or leases the truck and hauls freight under contract, so a carrier, a broker, or a shipper may also be part of the picture. This page explains who may be liable under Georgia and federal rules, which records disappear fast, and how T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. handles an owner operator <a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/\">truck accident lawyer<\/a> case in Georgia.<\/p>\n<h2>What an Owner-Operator Truck Crash Case Involves<\/h2>\n<p>An owner-operator crash case is a claim over a semi that a self-employed driver owns or leases. These cases have more moving parts than a crash with a company driver.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Who owns the truck:<\/strong> the driver owns the tractor or leases it from a carrier, then hauls loads under a contract.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Who sends the work:<\/strong> a motor carrier or broker often assigns the load and sets the delivery time.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Who carries insurance:<\/strong> coverage can come from the carrier, the broker, or the driver&#8217;s own policy, so each one needs review.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This page serves injured drivers, passengers in cars struck by a semi, pedestrians and motorcyclists hit by a truck, and families of people killed in these crashes. T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. handles truck accident claims from offices in Jonesboro (Clayton County), Atlanta, Decatur, Macon, and Augusta. Reviewing the crash facts early is the first step, and the rest of this page explains why.<\/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 semi driven by an owner-operator hit you or someone you love, the lease papers, driver logs, and filing clock are moving now, so reach out to T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. today. 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\/a-mechanic-works-on-a-red-truck-raised-on-a-lift-in-a-busy-r-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Red truck raised on a lift while a mechanic inspects it in a repair garage.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Who Can Be Held Liable When the Driver Owns the Truck<\/h2>\n<p>More than one party may be liable, so the driver is only one name to check.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The driver:<\/strong> speeding, distraction, following too closely, or impairment can each support a claim against the driver.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The motor carrier:<\/strong> the company that holds the operating authority may be a defendant when the facts support it.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The broker or dispatcher:<\/strong> unrealistic delivery deadlines or scheduling pressure can play a part in a crash.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The shipper or loader:<\/strong> improperly secured cargo can cause a rollover, a spill, or a load shift.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Maintenance vendors and parts makers:<\/strong> brake, tire, steering, or lighting failures can point to them.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Federal law matters for brokers too. In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.supremecourt.gov\/opinions\/25pdf\/608us1r32_g3bi.pdf\">Montgomery v. Caribe Transport II, LLC<\/a> (2026), the U.S. Supreme Court held that a state-law claim that a broker negligently hired an unsafe motor carrier falls within the FAAAA&#8217;s safety exception and is not preempted.<\/p>\n<p>Which claims fit depends on the crash and the contracts, and the firm reviews both.<\/p>\n<h2>Leased Trucks and How Carrier Responsibility Is Decided<\/h2>\n<p>A leased owner-operator truck should operate under a written lease, and federal rules set what that lease must say.<\/p>\n<p>Other than through equipment interchange as set forth in \u00a7 376.31, and under the exemptions in subpart C, the federal leasing rule at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-06\/title-49\/section-376.11\">\u00a7 376.11<\/a> allows an authorized carrier to perform authorized transportation in equipment it does not own only under certain conditions. Those conditions include a written lease that grants use of the equipment and meets the requirements of \u00a7 376.12. Except as provided in the subpart C exemptions, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-06\/title-49\/section-376.12\">\u00a7 376.12<\/a> states that the written lease required under \u00a7 376.11(a) shall contain specified provisions, and the authorized carrier must adhere to and perform them. The lease must spell out who pays for fuel, tolls, and detention, and who loads and unloads the freight.<\/p>\n<p>The federal statute also lets the Secretary require a carrier that uses leased trucks to put the arrangement in writing, carry a copy in each vehicle, and obtain liability insurance. The Secretary may require a motor carrier that uses motor vehicles it does not own to transport property under an arrangement with another party to have control of, and be responsible for, operating those vehicles. That operation must comply with the Secretary&#8217;s requirements on safety of operations and equipment, and with other applicable law, as if the carrier owned the vehicles (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.law.cornell.edu\/uscode\/text\/49\/14102\">\u00a7 14102<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>When the owner-operator buys insurance through the carrier, the lease must provide a certificate. That certificate lists the insurer, policy number, policy dates, coverage types, and deductibles.<\/p>\n<p>Gather these documents first:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The signed lease and any amendments<\/li>\n<li>The load or trip assignment for the day of the crash<\/li>\n<li>Insurance policies and certificates<\/li>\n<li>Any carrier safety or driver qualification records you can obtain<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Insurance papers show which policies may apply. The lease shows who controlled the truck.<\/p>\n<h2>Evidence That Proves Fault and Why Timing Matters<\/h2>\n<p>The records that show hours, testing, and maintenance are the evidence most at risk, so they need to be requested early.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Hours of service:<\/strong> except for a private motor carrier of passengers (nonbusiness), a motor carrier subject to these rules must require each driver it uses to record the driver&#8217;s duty status for each 24-hour period. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-06\/title-49\/section-395.8\">\u00a7 395.8<\/a>, this is done with an electronic logging device (ELD) unless a listed exception allows manual recording.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Driver qualification file:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-06\/title-49\/section-391.51\">\u00a7 391.51<\/a> requires each motor carrier to maintain a qualification file for each driver it employs. The file must include items such as the driver&#8217;s employment application and a copy of the motor vehicle record from each licensing authority.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Post-crash testing:<\/strong> after an occurrence involving a commercial motor vehicle operating on a public road in commerce, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecfr.gov\/on\/2026-10-06\/title-49\/section-382.303\">\u00a7 382.303<\/a> requires each employer to test its surviving drivers for alcohol as soon as practicable, in the situations the section sets out. The first is a driver who was performing safety-sensitive functions with respect to the vehicle, if the accident involved the loss of human life. The second is a driver who receives a citation under State or local law within 8 hours for a moving traffic violation arising from the accident, if the accident involved either of the following. One is bodily injury to a person who, as a result, immediately receives medical treatment away from the scene. The other is disabling damage to a motor vehicle that requires it to be transported away from the scene by a tow truck or other vehicle. If a drug test is not given within 32 hours, the employer must keep a record of the reasons.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Other proof:<\/strong> dashcam video, GPS and telematics data, the police crash report, and brake and tire repair history.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A preservation letter is a written request, sent promptly, asking the carrier and others to keep these records. Waiting gives records more time to be overwritten or thrown away.<\/p>\n<h2>Georgia Fault and Filing Deadline Rules<\/h2>\n<p>Georgia cuts your recovery by your share of fault, and it bars recovery entirely at 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>).<\/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 damages in proportion to the plaintiff&#8217;s percentage of fault. A plaintiff who is 50 percent or more responsible cannot receive any damages.<\/p>\n<p>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/law.justia.com\/codes\/georgia\/title-51\/chapter-12\/article-2\/section-51-12-33\/\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33<\/a>, when a jury divides fault among several parties, each party&#8217;s share of the damages generally is not a joint liability. Vicarious liability is a separate rule that this division of fault does not displace, so an employer can still be held responsible for an employee driver&#8217;s negligence on the job. The fact finder also generally considers the fault of everyone who contributed to the injury, including nonparties, when the conditions of O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33(d) are met, such as a party giving written notice at least 120 days before trial or a nonparty settling with the plaintiff.<\/p>\n<p>For injuries to the person, a lawsuit generally must be brought within two years after the right of action accrues, 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>. Loss of consortium claims have four years under the same statute.<\/p>\n<p>Claims against a city have a separate rule. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t35-t36-ch1-59-(v27)-2025-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 36-33-5<\/a>, a written claim must be presented to the city&#8217;s governing authority within six months of the event.<\/p>\n<p>Because these clocks start at the crash, early review leaves more time for every step.<\/p>\n<h2>What the Representation Covers and How the Case Moves<\/h2>\n<p>A truck case moves through six steps, from the first call to a settlement or a lawsuit.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>First contact:<\/strong> a free, confidential first consultation with no obligation to continue, by phone or at any office.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Investigation:<\/strong> the crash scene, vehicle information, the police report, witness statements, and the records listed above.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Identifying parties:<\/strong> naming every responsible party and its insurer, and notifying them of the claim.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Documenting damages:<\/strong> medical records, lost wages, future care needs, and property damage. In a wrongful death case, the family&#8217;s losses.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Negotiation:<\/strong> talks with insurers. This stage can take months.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Filing suit:<\/strong> if a fair resolution is not reached, filing in the proper Georgia court and preparing for trial.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>The firm 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>How Our Firm Handles Your Case<\/h2>\n<p>T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. is a Georgia personal injury firm led by Terance Madden, who has been in practice since 1999.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Practice areas:<\/strong> car and truck wrecks, motorcycle and e-bike crashes, slip and falls, nursing home abuse, medical malpractice, negligent security, and wrongful death.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Five offices:<\/strong> Jonesboro (Clayton County), Atlanta, Decatur, Macon, and Augusta.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Our team:<\/strong> support staff handle records requests, scheduling, and client updates. Terance Madden is the attorney responsible for your case.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Phone access:<\/strong> the phone line is available 24\/7, so a crash at night or on a weekend can be reported when it happens.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Straight answers:<\/strong> we explain the risks in plain terms. We do not promise or predict a result.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Every crash turns on its own facts. The first consultation is where we check how your crash fits these rules.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Owner-Operator Truck Crashes<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I sue the trucking company if the driver is an owner-operator?<\/summary><p>The carrier that leased the truck may be a defendant. The lease and the crash facts decide which companies are named.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Do I have to prove the driver was at fault? It depends on whom the claim is against. A claim against the trucking company for its driver&#8217;s conduct does depend on showing the driver was negligent. A claim against a broker, shipper or loader, maintenance vendor, or parts maker may instead rest on that party&#8217;s own negligence or on a defective part.<\/h3>\n<h3>What if I was partly at fault?<\/summary><p>Georgia reduces your recovery by your share of fault. A share of 50 percent or more bars recovery (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>How long do I have to file?<\/summary><p>For injuries to the person, the general rule is two years after the claim arises. Claims against a city can require written notice within six months.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What happens at the first consultation?<\/summary><p>You describe the crash and your injuries, and the firm explains the next steps. The consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I call at night?<\/summary><p>Yes. The phone line is available 24\/7.<\/p><\/details>\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=\"Row of parked semi trucks in a rainy lot, shown in black and white.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Talk to Terance Madden About Your Owner-Operator Crash<\/h2>\n<p>If a semi driven by an owner-operator struck your car, or a loved one died in one, the lease papers, driver logs, and testing records are at risk now. Call T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C. for a free, confidential first consultation, or start your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/contact\/\">free case evaluation online<\/a>. Terance Madden is the responsible lawyer, and the contact page lists the firm&#8217;s contact details.<\/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\">What Injured Georgians Can Expect From Us<\/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=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--chat\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A free, confidential first consultation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell us what happened on the road. Your first consultation is free and comes with no obligation to continue.<\/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\">Early attention to evidence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our team works to identify and request the records that matter in truck cases, including trip logs, maintenance files, and crash reports.<\/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\">Fees only if there is a recovery<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our fees are contingent: no fees unless there is a recovery. You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\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=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--phone\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reachable 24\/7<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Injuries and insurance calls do not keep business hours. Call us any time to talk through your options.<\/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--users\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Support from our team<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Terance Madden leads each case, supported by our office staff, who keep you informed at every stage.<\/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--heart\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Focus on your recovery<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We handle the paperwork, adjusters, and negotiations so you can concentrate on your health and your family.<\/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\">Before You Speak With an Insurance Adjuster<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trucking companies and their insurers often contact injured people quickly. A recorded statement or a signed release given too early can affect your claim. Speak with a lawyer first.<\/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\">Call Us Now<\/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\/\">Call Us Now<\/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\">How We Approach Owner-Operator Truck Cases<\/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\">Independent drivers and leased trucks<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Owner-operators often lease their trucks to a carrier. We look closely at the lease and the trucking relationship to understand who may be part of a claim.<\/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\">Gathering the crash evidence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We work to preserve logs, dashcam footage, maintenance records, and inspection reports that help show what happened on the road.<\/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\">Documenting your injuries<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We help organize medical records, bills, and lost-income information so your claim reflects the full impact of your injuries.<\/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\">Wrongful death claims<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a loved one dies in a truck crash, our team helps families pursue answers and accountability with compassion and care.<\/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\">Tell Us What Happened. Your First Consultation Is Free.<\/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<!-- 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\/owner-operator-truck-crash-liability-georgia\/\">Can I Sue the Owner-Operator or the Trucking Company When the Driver Was a Contractor in Georgia?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/pedestrian-hit-by-truck-lawyer-clayton-county\/\">Pedestrian Hit by a Truck in Clayton County<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/police-report-after-truck-crash-clayton-county\/\">Do I Need a Police Report After a Truck Crash in Clayton County, Georgia?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/preserve-truck-black-box-eld-data-georgia\/\">Truck Black Box and ELD Data: How to Preserve It After a Georgia Crash | T. Madden &amp; Associates, P.C.<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/prove-truck-driver-on-phone-during-crash-georgia\/\">Can I Prove a Truck Driver Was on the Phone During a Georgia Crash?<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Owner-operator truck crash in Georgia? See who may be liable, the filing deadline, and key records. Free consultation with T. Madden &#038; Associates, P.C.<\/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. Madden & Associates, P.C.\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Shenia Madden\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.gabar.org\/member-directory\/?id=7C5D0EFB6BF72FA134B7EF070297B694\"]}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I sue the trucking company if the driver is an owner-operator?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The carrier that leased the truck may be a defendant. The lease and the crash facts decide which companies are named.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Do I have to prove the driver was at fault? It depends on whom the claim is against. A claim against the trucking company for its driver\u2019s conduct does depend on showing the driver was negligent. A claim against a broker, shipper or loader, maintenance vendor, or parts maker may instead rest on that party\u2019s own negligence or on a defective part. What if I was partly at fault?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Georgia reduces your recovery by your share of fault. A share of 50 percent or more bars recovery (O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33; Quynn v. Hulsey, 310 Ga. 473 (2020)).\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long do I have to file?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"For injuries to the person, the general rule is two years after the claim arises. Claims against a city can require written notice within six months.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What happens at the first consultation?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"You describe the crash and your injuries, and the firm explains the next steps. The consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I call at night?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. The phone line is available 24\/7.\"}}], \"@type\": [\"Article\", \"FAQPage\"], \"image\": \"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-federal-inspector-examines-the-brake-system-of-a-parked-ei-photo-15.jpg\", \"headline\": \"Hurt by an Owner-Operator Truck? Talk to Our Team Before the Trucking Company Does.\"}, {\"name\": \"Owner-Operator Truck Accident Representation in Georgia\", \"@type\": \"Service\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Injured drivers, passengers in cars struck by a semi-truck, pedestrians and motorcyclists hit by a truck, and families of wrongful death victims in owner-operator truck crashes\"}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"T. 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The page explains who may be liable when the driver owns or leases the truck, including motor carriers, brokers, shippers, and maintenance providers; the federal and Georgia rules that affect responsibility and fault; the records that must be preserved early; the Georgia filing deadlines; and the steps of a claim from the first consultation through negotiation or suit.\", \"serviceType\": \"Truck accident legal representation\", \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\"}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Truck Accident Lawyer Georgia\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/www.tmaddenlaw.com\/guides\/truck-accident-lawyer-georgia\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Owner Operator Truck Accident Lawyer Georgia | T. 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