Atlanta Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyer

Types Of Tractor Trailer Accidents

A tractor trailer, also known as a semi-truck or 18-wheeler, is significantly larger and heavier than other trucks. It typically consists of a tractor unit and one or more trailers. Due to its size, a tractor trailer has larger blind spots, requires more time and distance to stop, and is more complex to maneuver, especially in emergency situations. These characteristics contribute to the unique risks and legal considerations in accidents involving tractor trailers. Common kinds of tractor trailer crashes include:

• Jackknife Accidents: This happens when the trailer part of the truck folds at a sharp angle, resembling a folding knife. This often occurs when the truck brakes suddenly, causing the trailer to skid and swing out to the side. Jackknife accidents are dangerous as they can lead to multi-vehicle pileups.
• Rollover Accidents: Rollover accidents occur when the truck tips over onto its side or roof. These are often the result of taking turns too quickly, overloading, or due to slippery road conditions. Rollovers can be particularly hazardous, not only to the truck driver but also to nearby vehicles.
• Rear-End Collisions: Due to their massive size and weight, trucks require a longer stopping distance. If a truck driver fails to stop in time, it can lead to a rear-end collision, which can be especially destructive if the truck is traveling at high speed.
• Underride Accidents: An underride accident happens when a smaller vehicle goes under the side or rear of a tractor trailer. These accidents can be particularly severe due to the likelihood of the top part of the smaller vehicle being crushed.
• Blind Spot Accidents: Big trucks have large blind spots where vehicles of smaller size can be virtually invisible to truck drivers. Accidents can occur when a truck moves into a different lane or turns without noticing a vehicle in its blind spot.
• Lost Load Accidents: These occur when the cargo being carried by the truck is not secured properly and falls onto the road. This can lead to dangerous obstacles on the road, causing accidents.

Causes Of Tractor Trailer Accidents

Several factors can contribute to these accidents, including:

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours and might drive while tired, leading to reduced reaction times and impaired judgment.
• Speeding And Reckless Driving: Due to tight schedules, truck drivers may speed or drive recklessly to meet deadlines, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Inadequate Training: Sometimes, truck drivers are not adequately trained to handle the complexities of driving a large vehicle, leading to errors on the road.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Failing to maintain the truck properly, such as not checking brakes or tires, can lead to mechanical failures and accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Like any other driver, truck drivers can be distracted by phones, eating, or other activities, leading to accidents.
• Adverse Weather Conditions: Bad weather, like rain, snow, or fog, can significantly increase the risk of accidents, especially for large vehicles like tractor trailers.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a dangerous and illegal practice that can impair a driver’s ability to operate a truck safely.

Common Locations For Tractor Trailer Accidents In Atlanta

In Atlanta, certain areas are more prone to tractor trailer accidents due to various factors like heavy traffic, complex interchanges, and frequent construction activities. Knowledge of these areas is important for personal injury attorneys in Atlanta who focus in handling tractor trailer accident claims.

• Interstate Highways: Atlanta’s interstate highways, especially I-75, I-85, and I-20, are hotspots for tractor trailer accidents. These major arteries experience high volumes of commercial truck traffic and are often congested, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The I-285 perimeter surrounding Atlanta is particularly notorious for truck accidents due to its heavy traffic and frequent lane changes.
• Downtown Connector: The Downtown Connector, where I-75 and I-85 merge in the heart of Atlanta, sees a substantial amount of tractor trailer traffic. The high volume of vehicles, combined with the complexity of the interchange, creates a challenging driving environment that can lead to accidents.
• Spaghetti Junction: Officially named the Tom Moreland Interchange, this complex interchange connects I-85 with I-285. Its intricate design, with multiple levels and numerous ramps, can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for truck drivers not familiar with the area, leading to a higher risk of collisions.
• Construction Zones: Atlanta is a city that is continuously growing and evolving, which means there are often construction zones on its roads and highways. These areas can be particularly hazardous for tractor trailers, as they may involve sudden lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and unexpected stopping.
• Rural Roads Near Atlanta: While not in Atlanta proper, the rural roads surrounding the city also see a fair number of tractor trailer accidents. These roads are often less well-maintained and have fewer safety features than major highways, increasing the risk of accidents, especially in poor weather conditions or during nighttime.
• Busy Intersections: Some of Atlanta’s busy intersections, like those in the Buckhead and Midtown areas, can be risky for tractor trailers. The mix of heavy pedestrian traffic, cyclists, and vehicles of varying sizes can create complex driving situations, leading to potential accidents.

Filing A Lawsuit Or Insurance Claim Based On A Tractor Trailer Accident

Many tractor trailer accident victims opt to file a claim with the insurance company of the liable party. This process involves negotiating with the insurance company to reach a settlement for damages. If the settlement offered is insufficient, the victim may choose to file a lawsuit. This is one of the many reasons why victims should not accept the terms of a settlement until an attorney has reviewed any specific offer.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through insurance claims, the next step is to file a personal injury lawsuit. This involves taking legal action against the liable party or parties. The process includes gathering evidence, presenting the case in court, and potentially reaching a settlement or going to trial.

Damages In Tractor Trailer Accidents

Damages refer to the compensation that the victim of a tractor trailer accident may be entitled to receive. These can include:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for all medical-related costs, including hospital bills, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical care related to the accident.
• Lost Wages And Earning Capacity: If the victim misses work or cannot return to work because of their injuries, they can claim lost wages. If their ability to earn in the future is affected, they may also claim for lost earning capacity.
• Pain And Suffering: This includes compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: Compensation for repair or replacement of any property damaged in an accident, such as a car.
• Punitive Damages: In limited instances, where the liable party acted in an intentional or egregious manner, punitive damages can be awarded to punish the wrongdoer.