Truck Accidents

Dedicated Savannah Injury Attorneys Committed to Securing Maximum Compensation on Behalf of Accident Victims

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you know that these collisions are terrifying and can easily result in devastating and life-changing injuries. Given the size and weight of semi-trucks compared to passenger vehicles, even a relatively minor collision can result in severe injuries or fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s important to understand your rights—including the right to pursue a claim against the at-fault party. At Suthers & Harper, our team of Savannah truck accident attorneys is committed to helping victims of these serious accidents recover compensation and rebuild their lives.

The Dangers Posed by Semi-Trucks

Semi-trucks, also known as 18-wheelers or tractor-trailers, are a common sight on Georgia highways. While these vehicles are essential for transporting goods across the state and country, they also pose significant dangers to other drivers. For example, a fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, which makes these vehicles much more difficult to stop or maneuver in the event of an emergency or a sudden change in the traffic pattern. 

Some of the most common dangers posed by semi-trucks include:

• Long Stopping Distances: Compared to smaller vehicles, trucks require much more time and space to come to a complete stop. When a truck driver fails to maintain a safe following distance, it can lead to rear-end collisions, often with devastating consequences.

• Wide Turns: Trucks require a larger turning radius, which can cause accidents when truck drivers fail to account for nearby vehicles, especially in tight intersections or when merging lanes.

• Driver Fatigue: Many truck drivers work long hours, and fatigue is a common issue in the trucking industry. A tired driver behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler can easily make a mistake that leads to a serious accident.

• Improperly Loaded Cargo: When a truck’s cargo is not properly secured or loaded, it can shift during transport, causing the truck to become unbalanced. This increases the risk of rollover accidents or the cargo spilling onto the road.

If you’ve been involved in an accident with a semi-truck, it’s important to speak with a Savannah truck accident lawyer who can investigate the causes of the crash and effectively hold the responsible parties accountable.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

The injuries sustained in truck accidents are often far more severe than those in car accidents due to the sheer size and force of the truck. Victims of truck accidents may face long-term or permanent consequences that impact their ability to work, enjoy life, and provide for their families. Some of the most common injuries associated with truck accidents include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A TBI can occur when a victim’s head strikes an object during the crash, or even from the force of the impact itself. These injuries often lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and long-term disability.

• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries require extensive medical care and often lead to lifelong changes in mobility and independence.

• Broken Bones: Fractures are common in high-impact accidents. Some broken bones may heal over time, but more severe fractures can lead to chronic pain or ongoing physical limitations.

• Internal Injuries: The force of a truck collision can cause damage to internal organs, which may not be immediately apparent. Internal bleeding or organ damage can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

• Burns: In the case of fuel-related accidents, fires can break out, leading to severe burns that require extensive medical treatment and skin grafts.

These injuries not only result in immediate medical expenses but can also lead to ongoing care needs and significant emotional trauma. A Savannah truck accident attorney from Suthers & Harper can help ensure you receive compensation for all of your losses, including medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.

Trucking Company Liability

Determining liability in a truck accident case is more complicated than in a typical car accident. For example, in many cases, multiple parties may share responsibility for the crash. These can include the truck driver, the trucking company, maintenance providers, or even manufacturers of faulty truck parts. Trucking companies, in particular, have a duty to ensure their drivers are properly trained, follow safety regulations, and that their trucks are well-maintained.

Some ways trucking companies may be held liable include:

• Negligent Hiring or Training: If a trucking company hires a driver without ensuring they have the proper qualifications or fails to provide adequate training, the company can be held liable for any accidents the driver causes.

• Violation of Federal Regulations: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict rules governing how long truck drivers can be on the road, how often trucks must be inspected, and other safety protocols. If the trucking company violates these regulations, it may be held responsible for accidents that occur as a result.

• Improper Vehicle Maintenance: Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that their vehicles are safe to operate. If a truck’s brakes fail or other mechanical issues arise due to poor maintenance, the company can be liable for accidents caused by these failures.

An experienced Savannah truck accident lawyer from Suthers & Harper will thoroughly investigate your accident to identify all liable parties and build a strong case for compensation.

Schedule a Free Consultation to Discuss Your Injuries with Our Savannah Truck Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights. At Suthers & Harper, our dedicated team of Savannah truck accident attorneys is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. We will guide you through the legal process, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable for your injuries. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery. Let Suthers & Harper help you get your life back on track. You can reach us by calling 800-320-2384 or by filling out our secure online contact form. Calling is free, and we will not bill you for our services unless we can recover compensation on your behalf.