Truck accidents are often serious and the aftermath can be incredibly confusing. Here, we debunk five popular myths about truck accidents to help you better understand your options. If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle, the attorneys at Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC are here to help. Give us a call at 404-760-7400 to schedule a complimentary case review and learn more.
MYTH 1: TRUCK DRIVERS ARE LESS LIKELY TO CAUSE ACCIDENTS DUE TO THEIR EXTENSIVE TRAINING
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that 88 percent of truck accidents are caused by driver error – either the driver of the truck or the driver of the smaller vehicle. However the Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS) conducted by the FMCSA identified truck driver factors including “[The] use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, speeding, fatigue, inattention, distractions, work environment, and unfamiliarity with the road,” as leading causes of truck accidents, pointing to the drivers of trucks more often than the drivers of cars as the leading cause of truck accidents.
MYTH 2: TRUCK DRIVERS GET INJURED JUST AS FREQUENTLY IN TRUCK ACCIDENTS
The size and weight difference between the vehicles involved should automatically expose this myth. Truck drivers may sustain injury when involved in accidents, but these typically pale in comparison to the injuries sustained by those in smaller vehicles. Brain injury, spinal cord injury, and death are all likely for the occupants of passenger vehicles involved in truck accidents.
MYTH 3: TRUCKING COMPANIES CANNOT BE HELD LIABLE FOR THEIR DRIVER’S ACTIONS
There can be multiple factors that contribute to a truck accident. If one of those factors is an unrealistic schedule or other pressures placed on a driver from the company he works for, that company may share liability for any damages he causes. Other liable parties in a truck accident may include the company that secured the load, parts and equipment manufacturers, mechanics, and government entities. During the investigative process of your claim, our truck accident lawyers will seek to identify all liable parties to help ensure you are receiving the full compensation you are due.
MYTH 4: INSURANCE WILL COVER ALL OF MY DAMAGES
Insurance companies working on behalf of the trucker and his employer will likely get to work immediately to come up with a settlement offer. If you accept this offer, you will waive your right to take legal action.
Insurance companies are for-profit corporations. They have stakeholders and board members they need to keep happy. Paying large settlements is not good for business. Insurance companies don’t like paying large settlements.
Our attorneys work for you. We are not interested in what insurance companies want, we are solely interested in what you and your family need and deserve. Before you accept an offer, talk to us about your options.
MYTH 5: I HAVE TWO YEARS TO FILE A CLAIM. THERE IS NO RUSH.
While you have two years in the state of Georgia to file a personal injury claim, waiting is not a good idea. Truck accidents are incredibly complex, often involving multiple parties, insurance companies, and attorneys. Without swift legal representation, you run the risk of losing out on fair compensation.
The best course of action, even if you think your injuries are minor, is to call Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC for a free case review. We have offices throughout Atlanta, including in the Druid Hills neighborhood and in the Perimeter Center, close to the mall. Please call 404-740-7600 to schedule your complimentary case review today.