Truck accidents can be particularly devastating crashes, due in no small part to the sheer size and weight of at least one of the vehicles involved in any given accident scenario. If you have recently been injured in a crash caused by a truck driver or otherwise involving a large commercial vehicle, know that understanding your legal position can help you to successfully seek any compensation to which you may be rightfully owed. And if you’ve been severely hurt, you could be owed a great deal.
Before considering the nitty-gritty of your legal position, however, it’s important to understand that you need to avoid venting about the accident on social media. Insurance adjusters and opposing counsel may monitor your online activity, looking for statements, photos or posts they can use to question your credibility or minimize your injuries. Don’t give them any opportunities to misunderstand or twist your situation for their benefit. Stay focused on securing rightful compensation for now, and stay off social media while doing so accordingly.
Determining fault and seeking compensation
One of the first concerns that your legal team will need to focus on is determining fault. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that you can still recover damages if you are less than 50 percent at fault, even if your actions contributed to the cause of your harm. The value of your compensation award paid by other responsible parties will “simply” be reduced by your percentage of fault. In truck accident cases, multiple parties may share responsibility — including the truck driver, the trucking company, cargo loaders and even maintenance providers. Your legal team should be exploring all possible angles accordingly.
Compensation after a truck accident can cover a range of losses, from medical expenses and lost income to pain and suffering. You may also be entitled to damages for reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous employment at full capacity. Non-economic damages may also be awarded to compensate for the emotional and physical toll that related harm has inflicted on your life.
As you move forward, know that while you may be required to report the accident to your insurer, you are not obligated to give a recorded statement to another party’s insurance company without legal guidance. Adjusters are trained to ask questions that could weaken your claim, so having an attorney handle communications can help to protect your interests.
Truck accident claims are complex, and the stakes are high. Acting quickly to secure legal support can help to you preserve your rights as a crash victim.