Columbus Truck Accident Lawyer

Top-Rated Columbus Truck Accident Attorney

Columbus is a bustling military city with major corridors of I-85 and US Route 27 cutting through. Because the city is home to parts of these busy roads, Columbus sees many large trucks just passing through, and consequently, many truck accidents, too. If you or a loved one was recently involved in a Columbus truck accident, you should speak with an experienced Columbus truck accident attorney who can help you file a successful claim.

Your Columbus Truck Accident Attorneys

Our team at The Tolson Firm, LLC, has immense experience representing Columbus truck accident victims through complex cases. We have successfully assisted in turning countless personal injury claims into large settlements, helping give our clients secure the funds they need to recover. By leveraging our skills, legal knowledge, and compassion, we work tirelessly to advocate for the rights of victims dealing with the aftermath of their accidents.

Understanding Truck Traffic in Columbus

Columbus has moderate to high traffic during peak hours, and much of this traffic is heavily laden with trucks, thanks in part to the prominent military presence of Fort Benning. This adds to the congestion and large truck traffic, which can lead to more truck accidents.

Another unique point about Columbus is that it is located on the border of Georgia and Alabama. This makes Columbus a busy place where freighted goods cross the state line. Muscogee County, which includes Columbus, is listed as the 10th county in the top 20 counties in Georgia with the highest freight tonnage, with 10.5 million freight tonnage traveling through the county.

Trucks that drive on major highways that run straight through the city, like those previously mentioned, namely I-85, are usually on a long haul. There are driving service limits that prevent truck drivers from driving beyond 14 consecutive hours after a 10-hour consecutive rest, but this is hard to police, and many truck drivers drive beyond this limit anyway. If a fatigued driver causes a truck accident, they may be held liable for any damages they cause.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Columbus

As with other types of car accidents, most truck accidents are caused by driver error. Both truckers and the drivers of passenger cars involved in commercial truck crashes can hold liability for these kinds of accidents, as can many different third parties, depending on what caused the crash. Common causes of truck accidents in Columbus include:

• Distracted driving. Driving while distracted is dangerous whether the person doing it is in a passenger car or an 18-wheeler. Accidents often occur when drivers engage in activities that take their attention away from the road, like checking their phones, eating, or applying makeup.
• Impaired driving. The blood alcohol content limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%. However, drivers can become impaired even with lower BACs, and substances other than alcohol can also cause problems with attention, reaction times, and other vital skills.
• Drowsy driving. The FMCSA places limits on how long a trucker can drive without taking a break, but not all drivers adhere to those regulations. Unfortunately, the trucking industry is competitive, and some companies encourage driving for inadvisable amounts of time to meet unrealistic scheduling obligations.
• Inexperience. Commercial trucks are more difficult to drive than passenger vehicles. Inadequate training in driving technique and safety concerns can place newer drivers at risk of causing accidents. You may be able to hold the trucking company directly liable for its failure to provide adequate training.
• Improper cargo loading. If cargo is not loaded correctly and the weight is unevenly distributed, that can also increase accident risk. In these cases, accident victims may be able to hold the cargo loaders liable for any damages that resulted from the crash.
• Mechanical failures. If a mechanical failure contributed to causing the crash, the truck manufacturer, a parts manufacturer, or the mechanic who performed improper repairs may hold some liability.
• Inadequate maintenance. Commercial trucks must be maintained adequately to keep them in safe operating condition. If a lack of maintenance caused the accident, as might be the case with a tire blowout, for example, the fleet management company responsible for making sure the vehicles are maintained could be responsible.
• Road conditions. If inadequate road maintenance or signage played a role, accident victims may be able to file a claim against the Columbus Department of Public Works or the GA DOT, depending on where the accident occurred. If you must file a claim against a municipal authority, contact a lawyer right away. You have just six months to file a notice of claim.

In many cases, trucking companies can also be held vicariously liable for the actions of their drivers, even if they didn’t do anything to directly cause the crash. Commercial truck accident claims are often complicated and can involve multiple liable parties. Your attorney can help you determine who was to blame for the crash so that you can get fully compensated.

Common Injuries Due to Truck Accidents

Because of the size and weight of the vehicles involved, truck accidents can cause catastrophic injuries. The type and extent of the injuries you suffer may vary depending on the speed at which both vehicles were traveling and how the accident occurred, but they could include:

• Traumatic brain injuries. TBIs can occur during any kind of motor vehicle accident, and they can have long-term physical and cognitive consequences for victims. Moderate to severe TBIs tend to be well compensated.
• Spinal cord damage. Spinal cord damage can lead to full or partial paralysis or, if it is incomplete, ongoing pain, numbness, or weakness. As with TBIs, spinal cord injuries typically lead to substantial compensation awards.
• Broken bones. Broken bones range in severity from minor fractures to crushing injuries that require surgery. You may also need extensive physical therapy to aid in your recovery.
• Organ damage. Organ damage occurs when the force of a crash sends an accident victim’s organs hurtling against the outside of their body. It is often accompanied by internal bleeding. Both of these issues are medical emergencies that must be addressed immediately.
• Soft tissue damage. Whiplash is the most common form of soft tissue damage acquired in motor vehicle accidents. It happens when an accident victim’s neck is snapped rapidly back and forth. Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries typically heal reasonably quickly with minimal medical intervention.
• Burn injuries. If any part of your body comes into contact with the car’s engine or exhaust, or a fire breaks out, you could suffer potentially severe burn injuries. These can lead to disfigurement and chronic pain.

Even if you don’t think you’ve sustained severe injuries, you should receive a full medical evaluation at St. Francis – Emory Healthcare or another local hospital following any truck accident. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away, and it’s important to receive care for them as quickly as possible. You can also benefit from having proof that your injuries occurred during the accident and not some intervening event.

What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident

The steps you take right after a truck accident can directly impact your eventual legal claim. Your priority should always be your health and safety, but if you can, you should also try to take the following steps:

• Move away from traffic. Move away from the road and help others involved in the accident to do so to avoid further injury.
• Call 911 to report the accident. Calling to report the accident isn’t just legally required. It can also help you with your claim. When issuing a statement to the investigating officer, stick to the facts and don’t speculate about what caused it.
• Gather evidence. If you’re able to move around the scene of the crash safely without further jeopardizing your health, you should take pictures of the accident scene. Get photos of all the vehicles involved, the surrounding road, and nearby street signs. You can also take pictures of your injuries before you receive medical attention.
• Exchange information. Get the insurance and contact information from the truck driver and any other drivers involved in the crash. You’ll need this information to file an insurance report.
• Seek medical care. As soon as you’re cleared to leave the scene, head to a hospital or your primary care physician for a full medical evaluation.

Once you’re medically stabilized, you can give us a call, and we can help you move forward with your legal claim.

How Much Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth in Georgia?

Unfortunately, it can be hard to find an exact number for the average settlement paid out to truck accident victims in Georgia. This is because every case is unique and comes with a variety of factors that can impact the overall worth of a claim. The following circumstances can all impact how much your personal injury is worth:

• Who is at fault
• How many parties are liable
• Whether you were partially at fault
• The severity of your injuries
• The severity of property damage
• The strength of available evidence
• The willingness of insurers to negotiate

Getting in a truck accident can be a traumatic experience, and if you’re injured, it can be expensive, too. Studies confirm what most drivers suspect – when a big rig hits a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic, reflecting broader statewide collision patterns seen throughout Georgia. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, do not wait to contact a Columbus truck accident lawyer from our firm. We can help you get the settlement you deserve.

Reasons to Hire a Truck Accident Attorney

Working with an experienced Columbus truck accident lawyer gives you the strongest chance of filing a successful personal injury claim and securing the damages you deserve. An experienced attorney has comprehensive knowledge of truck accident laws, strong negotiation skills, and the resources needed to help you file a strong claim that demonstrates the harm you’ve endured. Plus, a skilled lawyer can represent you in court if your case has to go to trial.

You can’t escape traffic or trucks, but you can fight back after an accident that causes you harm. Whether you believe you might be at fault or you think someone else was at fault, hire a truck accident attorney. It can only improve your chances of receiving an adequate settlement for your injuries and property damages.

FAQs

How Long Does a Semi-Truck Accident Claim Take to Finalize in Georgia?

How long it takes to finalize a semi-truck accident claim in Georgia varies. The length of time it takes to finalize a case depends on certain factors like the severity of the injuries, the complexity of the investigation regarding fault, and the swiftness of the negotiation process. For an accurate estimate of the time your case might take, speak to an experienced Columbus truck accident lawyer.

Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Truck Accident Claim in Georgia?

You should hire a lawyer for a truck accident claim in Georgia who can guide you through the legal proceedings that follow. An experienced truck accident lawyer has the knowledge needed to help you build a strong personal injury claim and can negotiate for an optimal settlement on your behalf. They can also represent you in court if your case has to move to trial.

How Are Truck Accident Settlement Checks Delivered in Georgia?

Truck accident settlement checks in Georgia are generally sent over to the attorney’s office first. The attorney’s office deposits the check and deducts its fees for legal services. Other legal costs are also paid by the attorney, such as court fees, and if there are any other outstanding invoices, like those owed to professional investigators, they are paid as well. After all expenses are paid, the attorney then distributes the payments to the recipient or recipients.

Is a Truck Accident Claim the Same as a Personal Injury Claim in Georgia?

A truck accident claim is a specific type of personal injury claim in Georgia. Generally, a personal injury case involves some form of accident where another person’s actions, or lack thereof, caused a victim harm. When you file a truck accident claim in Georgia, you are also filing a personal injury claim that fights for compensation for your losses. To better understand personal injury cases and your options, consult a skilled lawyer.

Speak With a Trusted Columbus Truck Accident Lawyer

No one should deal with the aftermath of a Columbus truck accident on their own. At The Tolson Firm, LLC, we’re devoted to representing the rights of Georgia residents and work tirelessly to secure the compensation they’re owed. Contact The Tolson Firm, LLC, today to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who can protect your rights and your future.