Truck accidents on Georgia’s highways are, unfortunately, far too common. With heavy traffic on major routes like I-75, I-85, and I-20, accidents involving big rigs can turn lives upside down. If you’ve been in a truck accident, understanding your rights under Georgia law is critical. At Benavidez Law Firm, we’re here to help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Georgia’s Laws Are Key in Truck Accidents
Georgia operates under a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you’re found to be 50% or more at fault for an accident, you won’t be eligible for compensation. However, if you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages—but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 20% at fault, you’ll receive $80,000.
Georgia also has strict trucking regulations to ensure safety, including:
- Driver Hours: Truck drivers must adhere to limits on how many hours they can drive without rest.
- Vehicle Inspections: Trucks must pass regular inspections to ensure they’re safe to be on the road.
- Weight Restrictions: Overloaded trucks can lead to serious accidents, which is why weight limits are strictly enforced.
Violating these regulations can make the trucking company or driver liable for the accident.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Georgia
What you do immediately after a truck accident can make or break your case:
- Call 911: Reporting the accident ensures there’s an official record, which is essential for your claim.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, you need to know that some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos, collect witness contact information, and note details like weather conditions and road hazards.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurers Alone: Insurance companies may try to minimize their payout. Speak to an attorney before giving a statement.
- Contact a Lawyer: Truck accident cases are complex, often involving multiple parties like trucking companies and manufacturers.
How Benavidez Law Firm Can Help
Truck accidents are nothing to face alone, especially in Georgia, where trucking laws and comparative negligence rules can make these cases tricky. At Benavidez Law Firm, we are dedicated to digging deep into the details—driver records, vehicle maintenance logs, and more—to build the strongest case possible. Whether it’s negotiating with insurers or taking your case to court, we’re here to stand by you.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Contact Benavidez Law Firm today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. With our experience and commitment, you can focus on what truly matters—your recovery.
