On average, big-truck accidents account for the highest share of fatalities and severe injuries in road collisions. And in any crash, one question weighs heaviest: who is at fault? According to our Alpharetta truck accident attorneys, having an experienced lawyer is essential to getting that answer quickly and keeping the whole legal process moving smoothly.
Accidents Caused by Driver Carelessness
It's no surprise that crashes from driver inattention rise every year. Cell-phone use, road rage, speeding, driving under the influence, and falling asleep at the wheel are all common problems. The most crucial factor in getting proper compensation is figuring out who's at fault — so if you believe a truck driver's negligence caused your crash, don't waste time. If you're not too badly hurt to do so, take these steps right away:
- Call 911 so a police report is written and an EMT can care for everyone involved.
- If possible, exchange information with the truck driver and any other drivers, and photograph your vehicle, the truck, and anything else involved.
- State the facts clearly and objectively to police and others — don't offer opinions or unrelated information, and be careful not to imply blame.
- Take notes on the scene; always keep a pen and paper in your car for emergencies.
- Find a caring truck accident attorney whose primary concern is your best interest and your finances.
How a Truck Accident Attorney Helps
The smaller vehicle in a truck crash almost always sustains far more damage than the truck. A skilled attorney will identify the concerns that determine whether — and how much — compensation you're owed:
- What traffic laws the truck driver violated
- Reckless acts such as cell-phone use, impairment, or falling asleep
- Whether the trucker complied with the federal Motor Carrier regulations
- Any potential liability of a parent trucking company
- Analyzing the injuries and damages you sustained
- Questioning eyewitnesses
- Collecting audio and visual evidence such as photos and video
- Meeting the legal requirements of the litigation process
- Building a convincing argument to prove the driver's negligence