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Posted in Truck Accidents on September 10, 2019
Truck accidents often leave victims with serious injuries. These crashes are unpredictable, and they happen more often than people realize. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there 4,761 total fatalities and 148,000 total injuries due to large truck crashes during the latest reporting year in the US. However, there are many myths surrounding large truck accidents.
Nearly 90% of all truck accidents are caused by driver errors, whether the errors are on the part of the truck driver or on the part of the passenger vehicle driver. Many people think that truck drivers are superior drivers because they have their commercial driver’s licenses and driver larger vehicles. That is not necessarily the case. Truck drivers on the roadway are not always experienced. They could be just starting out in their career. Many driver errors revolve around drivers using prescription and over-the-counter drugs, speeding, distractions inside the cab, fatigue, and unfamiliarity with the truck or roadway.
This is not true. The driver of a truck is going to be better protected in the event a crash occurs. This is due to the fact that commercial trucks are more sturdy, heavier, and higher up than regular passenger vehicles. In most cases, truck drivers are able to walk away from a truck vs passenger vehicle crash without major injury. However, passenger vehicle occupants regularly suffer spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken and dislocated bones, lacerations, amputations, and more.
In most cases, a truck company can be held liable for injuries and damages that a truck driver causes. This is particularly true if the company forces the driver to work unrealistic hours, carry more weight than allowed, or other pressures placed on the driver. They can also be held liable for not properly training a driver before allowing them to drive a truck. Other liable parties in a truck accident could include the company that loaded the truck, secured the load, vehicle or parts manufacturers, mechanics, and more.
The insurance carrier of an at-fault driver or the truck company is not on your side. Their goal is to ensure that they pay as little as possible in a settlement. In many cases, they will make an offer soon after an accident that is well below what you truly deserve. You should not accept an initial offer. Contact an attorney who can help guide you through this process and handle all negotiations on your behalf.
It is never a good idea to delay making a personal injury claim. While you do have two years to file a personal injury claim in Georgia, truck accidents are very complex and involve multiple parties. By not securing legal representation early in the process, you risk losing out on a fair compensation. Even if you have minor injuries, seek medical care for your injuries, and ask an attorney for assistance.