A news report on Atlanta News First details that a car slammed into an overturned tractor-trailer, shutting down all lanes for several hours during the morning commute. The incident occurred at the East-West Connector near S. Hurt Road, with no word on injuries.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident involving a truck, you may find it helpful to talk to an experienced Marietta personal injury lawyer.
Truck Accidents Can Cause Severe Damage
Truck Accidents in Cobb County and across the U.S. can be extremely serious, often causing catastrophic injuries. The very size of the truck, force of speed, and impact make truck accidents dangerous. The issues regarding insurance, driver responsibility, and truck company liability can create a complex web in determining accountability.
Tips for Smart Action After a Truck Accident in Cobb County
If possible, keep a clear head and do your best to stay calm. It can be challenging to think logically as the event is shocking. If at all possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, check on others, and make it easy for emergency vehicles and police to get to your location.
Report to the Police
Georgia law (Georgia Code § 40-9-2) requires that any accident where people are injured or killed or where property damage is more than $500 must be reported to the police.
Calling 911 is an important first step. Give the location of the accident and how many people may be involved. This helps the operator determine the number of police, emergency medical staff, and ambulances to send to your location.
Get Medical Attention
This is not the time to be cavalier or postpone medical attention. If you can stay at the scene of the accident, get medical help on the spot. If you leave, see a doctor right away to determine what injuries you may have sustained.
Document the Scene
Use your cell phone to take pictures of the scene if you can do so safely. Document the scene, position of vehicles, damage, any obstructions on the road, and environmental conditions.
Share Information with Other Drivers
Before the police and emergency assistance arrive, share information. Get names, truck driver’s licenses, license plates, auto insurance, and policy information.
This is also a good time to get details of the truck driver’s company information. Georgia operates under respondeat superior laws, meaning that the trucking company bears responsibility in trucking accidents. A trucking company may be ultimately liable for the victim’s damages, and even if the truck driver is found at fault, they may be held responsible.
Gather Witness Statements
Talk to bystanders if possible. Ask them what they noticed, saw, and heard. Get their names and contact information. Reach out to the responding officers, as they may also talk to witnesses and put their statements in their report.
Talk to an Experienced Lawyer
Typically, according to Georgia, Code § 9-3-33, you have two years to file a claim for damages. This may seem like a long period. However, it may be prudent to talk with an experienced lawyer as soon as you can.
Protecting Legal Rights After a Truck Accident in Cobb County
A personal injury lawyer can look at the details of your situation and offer perspective on how to protect your legal rights. Getting the justice you deserve may start with understanding insurance settlements and navigating the complex legal landscape.