Atlanta Jackknife Truck Accidents: Know The Risks
Truck accidents in Atlanta are common and among the most devastating types of collisions to happen on Georgia’s roads. The massive size of most big rigs increases both the odds and scale of these crashes, and the injuries they cause have the potential to be severe.
Jackknife accidents are particularly dangerous and happen when the trailer of a large truck swings out at an angle, often into other lanes. Our Atlanta truck accident lawyer explains the risks and your rights in seeking compensation.
Common Causes Of Jackknife Truck Accidents in Atlanta
With I-85, I-20, and other major roads intersecting our area, truck accidents in Atlanta pose serious risks. According to the state Department of Transportation (GDOT), over 26,000 truck accidents happen throughout the state annually, causing thousands of injuries and hundreds of fatalities. Unfortunately, jackknife accidents are among the most dangerous.
Jackknife accidents occur regularly and leave other drivers suffering serious harm. Common causes include:
- Faulty brakes, resulting in uneven stopping and making the trailer harder to control;
- Adverse weather conditions, which make skidding more likely;
- Unevenly loaded cargo, which destabilizes the truck;
- Speeding and going too fast for conditions or when driving around curves in the road;
- Slamming on the brakes due to drowsy driving, distracted driving, or the reckless behavior of other motorists.
Get Compensation For Jackknife Truck Accident Injuries in Atlanta
In an Atlanta jackknife truck accident, the trailer swings out as much as 180 degrees from the truck cab, impacting drivers in other lanes. Under the Georgia Code, victims have the right to seek compensation, and the truck driver, the trucking company, other motorists, and even truck parts manufacturers may all share the blame.
However, trucking companies typically have teams of lawyers to protect them against claims. To get the total amount you need to recover, take these steps to protect your rights:
- Notify law enforcement immediately and get a description of all motorists involved;
- Make sure the police fill out an accident report and that it contains contact information for everyone involved and other relevant information;
- Take photos and videos of the truck, damage to your vehicle, and your injuries;
- Get medical care right away, regardless of your symptoms;
- Follow instructions regarding medical treatment and work or other activity restrictions;
- Before making statements to the truck company or insurers, contact our experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyer first.
Contact Our Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer Today
Jackknife truck accidents in Atlanta can cause devastating harm. Multiple parties may be at fault and you have the right to hold them all liable in a truck accident claim. Shiver Hamilton, LLC helps victims get the compensation they are entitled to for their losses.
We have a track record of success in dealing with these trucking companies and getting clients the maximum amount in claims. Serving Savannah, St. Simons Island, Alpharetta, Decatur, Johns Creek, Jonesboro, Marietta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, and all of DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett Counties, contact our Atlanta truck accident lawyer and request a consultation today.
Source:
gahighwaysafety.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2021-Large-Trucks-Georgia-Traffic-Safety-Facts.pdf
