According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2021, 5,601 people were killed in crashes involving large trucks. This is an increase of 13% compared to 2020 fatalities (4,965).
An increase in shipping and transportation means there are more and more commercial trucks on the highway, which means you are more at risk of being in a commercial truck accident. Being involved in an accident with a semi-truck poses a much higher risk of injury because of the size and weight of these vehicles.
Knowing what to do after a commercial truck accident in Atlanta is important, understanding the steps you need to take after an auto accident makes all the difference. Familiarize yourself with the following steps in case you are ever involved in a semi-truck accident in Atlanta.
- Call the attorneys at Virguez Law.
When you call the attorneys at Virguez Law after a commercial truck accident in Atlanta, we will put the insurance company on notice for you. It’s important to avoid making any statements to the insurance company before speaking with us. However, there are a few actions you can take in the meantime.
- Call 911 to report any injuries.
If someone is injured, you want to get them help immediately.
- Put out warning signals.
Alert other vehicles of the accident with your emergency flashers or flares, and be sure to get out of the way of traffic.
- Do not leave the scene of the accident.
Georgia law requires that all drivers stop and remain at the scene when they have been in an accident. Individuals who fail to do this face serious consequences.
- Take photos of your vehicle.
If you are able, take photos of your vehicle, any skid marks, landmarks, traffic lights, or other areas of the scene while you wait. These photos will be helpful to your case and allow your attorney to recreate the scene if your case goes to trial. Try to take the photos before police or paramedics arrive.
- Avoid admitting any facts without your attorney.
Saying “I’m sorry” or “It’s dark” seems innocent, but these statements could be taken as an admission of guilt. Be polite and brief. Your attorney will guide you along the process, which is why it is so important that you call the attorneys at Virguez Law immediately after being in an accident involving a truck.
Why do you need a lawyer?
Unfortunately, commercial truck accidents involve some of the worst injuries. The size and weight of commercial trucks can cause significant damage to other autos. In addition, if commercial trucks are hauling freight, they have even more weight, resulting in more severe collisions.
If you were injured in a collision with a commercial truck, you need to call the experienced accident attorneys at Virguez Law. We will ensure that all the steps are taken to secure compensation for injuries, lost wages, disabilities, property damage, mental health, and loss of normalcy in life.
Commercial truck accidents in Atlanta are complex. Without in-depth knowledge of the laws, you may not get the compensation you are entitled to, and you could possibly jeopardize your case.
Commercial vehicles are subject to different laws when it comes to liability insurance. Oftentimes the limits for liability insurance are not enough to cover a serious accident, so companies typically have a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability coverage. Your trucking accident attorneys are experts in insurance coverage and Georgia laws surrounding commercial vehicles. That’s why we always advise seeking experienced legal counsel.
First steps after a truck accident
The first step after a commercial truck accident is to call the attorneys at Virguez Law. We know how stressful an event like this is. Hiring the right trucking accident attorney will be the most important decision you make after being involved in an accident with a commercial truck.
If you were involved in an accident with a commercial truck in Georgia, call us at 678-300-0000 and speak to one of our attorneys today.
Keep our number in your phone or vehicle in the event that you are in an accident.
