An accident with a large truck can change your life in so many ways. After your collision in Columbus, you shouldn’t have to pay for costs that weren’t your fault.
At John Foy & Associates, we can help. Our Columbus semi-truck accident lawyers know what it takes to recover medical bills, lost income, and other damages. We don’t back down without fighting for your rights.
With 20-plus years of experience and over $1 billion in results, we’ve one of Georgia’s largest injury firms. We can get you started today with a free, no-strings-attached consultation. A Columbus truck accident lawyer from our team will put you first. Call or contact us online to get started for free.
What You Can Do After Being Hit by a Truck
If someone’s actions led to your accident, you can take legal action.
However, bringing a claim takes time and work. Here are some things you’ll need to do—or hire your attorney to do—to seek fair compensation.
(And if you have any doubts or questions, don’t wait to call a Columbus personal injury lawyer. An experienced lawyer can make sure you’re on track from the beginning.)
Document the Scene
The information you gather after your accident is so important. Right after it happens, be sure to call the police to report the crash. Officers should arrive at the scene to gather information and create a report.
Ask for a copy of the accident report, as you will need it if you go to court.
If you can, move your car out of oncoming traffic. Check yourself and others for injuries. If someone needs assistance, call 911 for an ambulance.
Also, save evidence from the scene by:
- Taking pictures of your injuries and vehicle damage
- Photographing the entire accident scene
- Getting the names and contact information of any witnesses
- Noting any nearby traffic cameras or surveillance cameras
You can help preserve the accident scene. When you contact a lawyer, the information you gathered will help them build your case.
Exchange Driver Information
Don’t forget to exchange information with the other driver. If you don’t get the driver’s information, you won’t have much to go on if they try to avoid liability.
Drivers should exchange the following:
- Names, phone numbers, and addresses
- Driver’s license numbers
- Auto insurance policy information
- License plate numbers
If the other driver is a trucker, ask for their employer’s name and contact information. You’ll need to know who to hold liable for the damages.
Be Careful What You Say
The other side might use anything you say or do against you. So, be very careful when talking about the accident—especially if the insurance company calls you.
Insurance adjusters know what they’re doing. They might ask you to give a statement or even offer you money. But it’s best to decline everything before speaking to an attorney.
Once you have a lawyer, they can talk to the insurer for you. When the adjuster calls you, you can direct them to your attorney instead.
Get Medical Treatment
See a doctor for your injuries, no matter what. Even if you think you can handle the pain, you’ll want to see a doctor to protect your rights.
Getting prompt treatment shows the insurance company that you deserve compensation. If you don’t have medical records, the insurer won’t have any proof and will probably deny your claim. Even if they don’t deny the claim, you’ll likely get a lowball offer that hardly covers anything.
Call a Lawyer
It’s never too early to speak with an attorney. Call a trusted Columbus semi-truck accident lawyer to discuss your options. Your lawyer can start working on your case immediately.
To get started with a free consultation, call John Foy & Associate at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online. We have over 20 years of experience, and we know how to win cases.
Get the strong arm
Multiple Parties Can Be at Fault for a Truck Crash
Semi-truck or tractor-trailer accidents are complicated. Unlike car accidents where one driver is usually at fault, several parties might be at fault in a truck collision.
You could have a case against:
- The trucker
- The trucking company
- A vehicle manufacturer
- A maintenance company
- A loader or shipper
Your attorney can investigate to see who is at fault. Then, you’ll know where to file claims for the compensation you deserve.
Truck Driver Liability
Some truckers are independent contractors. That means the driver is self-employed, and the company might not be responsible for their actions.
If the driver is a contractor, you might have a case against the driver directly.
Truck drivers often have strict deadlines and grueling schedules. Plus, driving a large truck is more challenging. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), large trucks need longer following distances and have larger blind spots on all sides.
If a driver isn’t careful, they can cause a collision at any time.
Trucking Company Liability
If the driver is an employee, the company that employs the driver is liable. You’ll probably have a claim against the company and their insurer.
Trucking companies should purchase comprehensive insurance policies to cover possible accidents. However, that doesn’t mean getting a fair settlement is easy. Your attorney will probably need to negotiate for a good offer.
Manufacturer Liability
Sometimes, truck defects can lead to an accident. If that’s the case for your accident, a vehicle manufacturing company could be at fault.
Mechanic Liability
Commercial trucks should receive routine inspections and maintenance. If a mechanic performs faulty service and contributes to an accident, the worker or employer could be liable.
Shipping or Loading Company Liability
Drivers or third-party companies could be responsible for loading the truck. If someone loads the vehicle improperly, items can shift or fall from the truck. Severe accident injuries have resulted from these situations.
In some cases, you could have multiple claims because of your accident. Your attorney can ensure you seek compensation in every available way.
You Have Two Years to File Your Case
The statute of limitations in Georgia is two years. That’s how long you typically have to file a lawsuit after an accident. But you will need to take action much sooner.
Building a strong case takes time. It’s also best to start documenting your collision immediately. To make sure you’re doing the right things, speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
At John Foy & Associates, we can handle the legal side of things while you heal. We don’t charge a thing unless we win you compensation, so there is no risk in getting started today.
Contact Our Columbus Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers for Free
Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your free consultation. Our team is ready to take your call 24/7.
706-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
