What are the first steps to take if you or someone you love is involved in a trucking accident in Georgia?
Immediately after an accident, call 9-1-1.
If you are a truck driver, contact your trucking company, call an attorney, contact the police at the scene, and get medical attention.
If you are a motorist, pedestrian, or other person involved in an accident, it is important to call 9-1-1, provide information to the police, call a personal injury lawyer, and seek medical attention if necessary.
With these steps, you may still wonder what caused the accident.
Typically trucking accidents are caused by several things, many of which could be prevented.
Georgia trucking accidents are commonly caused by the following:
Driving Too Long
Many truckers keep driving, even when exhausted. Although Federal regulations state that truck drivers may not drive more than eleven hours, it can be tempting to push the limits. Some drivers try to fit in a few more miles or a few extra hours. This may be due to trying to make more money or meet shipping requirements.
Driving too long often results in accidents. Ones that could be prevented and avoided.
Driving While Distracted
Truck driving can be lonely, boring, and isolating. Many truckers reach out to friends and family to stay alert, texting or talking on the phone while driving.
Naturally, if a driver is distracted, the focus is not fully on the road. This can result in dangerous and sometimes deadly collisions.
Driving Without Regular Maintenance
Driving a truck requires regular and often expensive maintenance. In some trucking firms, the company is responsible for routine maintenance. If a trucker owns his truck, they tend to be responsible for the maintenance.
As in an auto, routine maintenance is essential for safe driving. If brakes, tires, and engines are not properly maintained, the results can be risky or deadly.
Driving Too Fast in Georgia
Speeding is one of the biggest problems in trucking collisions. Some drivers may push the limits to get in an extra run or to meet a shipping deadline.
Driving in Hazardous Weather
Truckers need to exercise caution to drive safely in hazardous weather. While the pressure is on to deliver a load on time, experienced truckers know when to pull over if the weather is severe. Fog can interfere with visibility. Extreme weather and erratic weather are situations when it is essential to prioritize safety.
Georgia Rules for Trucks and Commercial Vehicles
Georgia has specific codes and safety rules for trucks and commercial vehicles.
For instance, Georgia requires trucks to have specific safety equipment such as reflective tape and warning signs. Drivers are required to follow weight restrictions and size limits.
Additionally, under the Georgia Department of Public Safety, truck drivers must follow specific rules, such as taking rest breaks and operating under specific hours of service rules. These rules help to increase safety and prevent driver fatigue from causing accidents.
If you have been involved in a trucking accident, it is important to understand the exact circumstances of the incident. This may be essential in establishing a legal case as well as in preventing accidents in the future.