As Snellville continues to grow, so does the presence of commercial trucks on our roads. While these vehicles are essential for transporting goods and keeping our economy thriving, they also pose significant risks to other motorists. At Griffin Law Firm, our experienced Snellville truck accident lawyers have witnessed the devastating consequences of these crashes. Here, we will explore the common causes of truck accidents in Snellville and what you can do to protect your rights if you or a loved one has been involved in a Georgia truck accident.
The Dangers of Truck Driver Fatigue
Truck driver fatigue is undoubtedly one of the most common causes of truck crashes in Snellville.
Long hours on the road, tight delivery schedules, and pressure from employers can lead to truckers pushing themselves beyond their limits. When a truck driver is fatigued, their reaction time slows, their judgment becomes impaired, and their ability to safely operate their vehicle is compromised.
Federal regulations limit the number of hours a truck driver can be on the road, but some companies prioritize profits over safety and encourage their drivers to violate these rules. In some cases, truck drivers may falsify their logbooks to hide the true number of hours they have been behind the wheel making it difficult to prove fatigue as a contributing factor in an accident.
However, an experienced Snellville truck accident lawyer can investigate the driver’s records, gather evidence from the truck’s electronic logging device, and interview witnesses to build a strong case on your behalf. If you have been involved in a Snellville truck accident caused by a fatigued driver, our skilled attorneys can investigate the incident and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failure
Commercial trucks are complex machines that require regular maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. When trucking companies or drivers neglect this critical responsibility, it can lead to catastrophic equipment failures on the road. Some common maintenance issues that contribute to Georgia truck accidents include:
- Worn or defective tires
- Faulty brakes
- Malfunctioning lights or turn signals
- Improperly secured cargo
Trucking companies are required by law to follow strict maintenance schedules and inspect their vehicles regularly. They must also keep detailed records of all maintenance performed on their trucks.
If a company fails to properly maintain its fleet or a driver fails to report equipment issues, they can be held liable for any accidents that occur as a result. Our Snellville truck accident lawyers have the knowledge and resources to thoroughly investigate maintenance records, inspect the vehicles involved in the crash, and consult with expert witnesses to determine if improper maintenance played a role in your accident. If an equipment failure caused your Snellville truck accident, our experienced truck accident lawyers will work tirelessly to uncover evidence of negligence and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Distracted Driving and Reckless Behavior
Just like any other motorist, truck drivers can engage in dangerous behaviors behind the wheel.
Distracted driving, like texting or using a cell phone, takes a driver’s eyes off the road and significantly increases the risk of an accident. Other reckless behaviors that can lead to Snellville truck accidents include:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Unsafe lane changes
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Distracted driving is particularly dangerous when it involves a commercial truck due to the vehicle’s size, weight, and longer stopping distance. A truck driver who takes their eyes off the road for even a few seconds can travel the length of a football field without realizing it, putting everyone around them at risk. Reckless behaviors like speeding and tailgating can also have devastating consequences when a large truck is involved. If you suspect that distracted driving or reckless behavior played a role in your Snellville truck accident, our truck accident attorneys will work to obtain cell phone records, dashboard camera footage, and witness statements to support your claim. When a truck driver’s negligence causes harm to others, they must be held responsible for their actions. Our Snellville truck accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate your case and work to ensure that the at-fault driver is brought to justice.
Inadequate Training and Inexperience
Operating a commercial truck requires specialized skills and knowledge. Trucking companies have a duty to properly train their drivers and ensure they are prepared to handle the challenges of the road.
Unfortunately, some companies prioritize filling positions quickly over providing adequate training, putting inexperienced drivers behind the wheel of massive vehicles.
Inexperienced truck drivers may struggle with navigating difficult road conditions, properly securing cargo, or understanding the limitations of their vehicles. They may also be more likely to panic in emergency situations or make poor decisions that lead to accidents. Trucking companies that fail to provide proper training or allow inexperienced drivers to operate their vehicles can be held liable for any accidents that occur as a result. Our Snellville truck accident lawyers will investigate the driver’s qualifications, training records, and employment history to determine if inadequate training or inexperience contributed to your accident. If your Georgia truck accident was caused by an inexperienced or poorly trained driver, our attorneys will work to hold the trucking company accountable for their negligence in hiring and training practices.
Protecting Your Rights After a Snellville Truck Accident
If you have been involved in a truck accident in Snellville, GA, it is essential to act quickly to protect your rights. The trucking company and their insurance provider will likely have a team of lawyers working to minimize their liability and limit your compensation. By hiring an experienced Snellville truck accident lawyer, you can level the playing field and ensure your interests are protected.
At Griffin Law Firm, P.C., we have the knowledge, resources, and dedication needed to take on even the most complex truck accident cases. We will thoroughly investigate the events before, during, and after the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. Our goal is to help you secure the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident. Call 678-968-2414 today to talk to our professionals.