Trucking accidents in Augusta are unfortunately common occurrences. These collisions frequently happen when trucking companies and truck drivers make mistakes, such as disregarding motor carrier regulations or violating standard traffic laws.
If you sustained injuries in a recent truck collision, the skilled legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is prepared to help. We can swiftly investigate the circumstances leading up to your accident, determine your options for moving forward, and aggressively fight for your rights and interests every step of the way.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Augusta truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Select Us for Representation?
When it comes to maximizing your monetary award in a truck accident claim or lawsuit, you want an experienced legal team in your corner. The Augusta, Georgia truck accident attorneys at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers have a strong track record of successfully settling and litigating trucking accident claims over the years. In fact, we have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our injured clients. Let us maximize the compensation award you receive in your truck accident case.
How Much is an Augusta Truck Accident Case Worth?
Determining the worth of a truck accident case in Augusta – including the amount of compensation you can recover for your injuries – involves several factors. First, you need to understand that compensation in such cases usually falls into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages cover tangible losses and expenses. These include medical bills for hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing treatments related to your injuries. They also cover lost earnings if your injuries prevent you from working, and any future income loss if your ability to earn is affected long-term. Additionally, economic damages can include repair costs for your vehicle or replacement costs if your vehicle was totaled in the accident.
Non-economic damages address intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and lost quality of life. These damages are more subjective and can vary widely depending on the severity of your injuries and how they affect your daily life. For instance, if your injuries result in chronic pain or permanent disability, your non-economic damages may be substantial.
In Augusta the amount of compensation you can recover will depend on several factors, including:
- Severity of Injuries – In general, the more severe your injuries, the higher the compensation you may receive. Serious injuries that require extensive treatment or result in long-term disability typically lead to higher payouts.
- Effect on Your Life – If your injuries significantly affect your ability to perform daily activities or alter your quality of life, you may receive more compensation for non-economic damages.
- Insurance Limits – The amount of coverage provided under the truck driver’s insurance policy or the trucking company’s insurance can also affect the total amount you recover. If the coverage limits are low, you may need to pursue additional claims or legal action to recover the full amount.
- Liability and Evidence – The strength of your case, including evidence of negligence and liability, will influence the settlement amount. Strong evidence supporting your claim can lead to a higher settlement offer.
Where Do Truck Accidents Occur in Augusta?
In Augusta trucking accidents can happen in several key areas due to a combination of road conditions, traffic patterns, and major highways.
- One common location for trucking accidents in Augusta is on Interstate 20. This major highway runs east-west through the city, connecting Augusta with Atlanta and other significant destinations. Due to heavy traffic and the high speeds of trucks, accidents on Interstate 20 can be severe. The exits and interchanges along this highway, such as those near Bobby Jones Expressway and River Watch Parkway, are particularly prone to accidents because of the complex merging and turning movements.
- Another area where trucking accidents are common is on the Bobby Jones Expressway (I-520). This beltway encircles Augusta and connects with several major roads. The high volume of traffic, including both local vehicles and large trucks, contributes to the risk of collisions. Intersections and ramps on this expressway can be hotspots for accidents – especially during rush hours when traffic is dense.
- Trucks also frequently travel on Washington Road, a major route through Augusta that connects various neighborhoods and commercial areas. The combination of residential areas, shopping centers, and frequent stoplights can create challenging driving conditions for truck drivers. Accidents on Washington Road can occur due to sudden stops, lane changes, or interactions with local drivers.
- Additionally, the industrial areas of Augusta, particularly around the Port of Augusta, see a high volume of trucking activity. Trucks transporting goods to and from the port can contribute to accidents in these areas, especially when navigating narrow roads or busy loading zones.
Types of Augusta Truck Crashes
In Augusta trucking accidents are often the result of negligence by truck drivers or trucking companies. Some of the most common types of collisions include:
- Rear-End Collisions – These accidents typically happen when a truck driver fails to stop in time or is driving too fast for the road conditions. Because trucks are so large and heavy, they take longer to stop than smaller vehicles. If a truck driver is distracted, following too closely, or speeding, they may not be able to stop quickly enough, leading to a rear-end collision.
- Jackknife Accidents – Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side and forms a 90-degree angle with the truck cab. This type of accident often results from sudden braking – especially when a truck driver loses control of the vehicle. Poorly maintained brakes, slick roads, or driver inexperience can contribute to jackknifing. These accidents may be particularly dangerous because the out-of-control trailer can hit other vehicles on the road.
- Rollovers – These accidents usually happen when a truck takes a turn too quickly, or the load inside the trailer is improperly balanced. When a truck rolls over, it can block multiple lanes of traffic and cause serious injuries or fatalities. Negligent truck drivers who don’t slow down for curves or improperly secure their cargo can be held responsible for these dangerous accidents.
- Underride Accidents – Underride accidents are some of the deadliest trucking accidents. They occur when a smaller vehicle gets trapped under the trailer of a truck, usually during a sudden stop or when the truck is making a turn. These accidents can result from a truck driver’s failure to use proper signals, brake lights, or reflective markings.
- Tire Blowouts – Tire blowouts can also lead to serious accidents in Augusta. If a truck tire blows out, the driver may lose control, leading to a collision. This can happen if trucking companies neglect to maintain their trucks or if a driver fails to check tire pressure and condition before a trip.
Common Injuries in an Augusta Truck Accident
Trucking accidents in Augusta can lead to a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional injuries. These injuries often have long-lasting effects, affecting victims’ quality of life and requiring significant medical and psychological care.
- Physical Injuries – The most common physical injuries in trucking accidents are often severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Fractures and broken bones are frequent, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs, resulting from the force of a collision. Spinal cord injuries are also common and can lead to paralysis, depending on the injury’s severity. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are another serious concern, occurring when the victim’s head is violently struck or shaken during an accident. TBIs can cause long-term cognitive issues, memory loss, and other neurological problems. Whiplash, resulting from the sudden jolt of a truck collision, is another prevalent injury, particularly affecting the neck and upper spine.
- Mental Injuries – Mental injuries are also a significant consequence of trucking accidents. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is common, especially in severe accidents involving fatalities or serious injuries. Victims may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety related to driving or riding in vehicles. Depression can also develop, particularly if the victim’s life has drastically changed due to the accident, such as through the loss of mobility or independence. Cognitive impairments may also occur, especially if the victim has suffered a TBI, leading to difficulty with memory, concentration, and decision-making.
- Emotional Injuries – The emotional toll of a trucking accident can be profound. Victims often experience emotional distress, including feelings of fear, anger, and frustration. Anxiety is another common emotional injury, especially if the victim is afraid of being on the road again. Grief and loss are also significant, particularly if the trucking accident caused the death of a loved one or a permanent disability. These emotional injuries can be just as debilitating as physical ones and often require therapy and support to manage effectively.
Fighting the Insurance Company after an Augusta Truck Accident
When you’re involved in a truck accident in Augusta, dealing with the insurance company can be overwhelming. However, at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we are here to fight on your behalf and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are the most important ways we can assist you in this process.
- Thorough Investigation – We will conduct a thorough investigation of the truck accident. This includes gathering vital evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and video footage. We can also examine the truck’s maintenance records and the driver’s logbooks to identify any violations of federal trucking regulations. By building a strong case, we can effectively challenge the insurance company’s version of events.
- Effective Negotiation – Insurance companies often try to settle claims for as little money as possible. We use our extensive experience in negotiating with these companies to fight for a fair settlement. We understand the tactics insurance adjusters use and are prepared to counter them. We will advocate for the full value of your claim, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Legal Representation – If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are ready to take your case to court. Our legal team is experienced in litigating truck accident cases and will present a compelling argument on your behalf. We will work to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable, whether it’s the negligent truck driver, trucking company, or manufacturer of faulty equipment.
- Handling Communication – Dealing with the insurance company can be stressful, especially when you’re recovering from an accident. We will take over all communication with the insurer so you can focus on your recovery. We’ll ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process and keep you informed every step of the way.
Steps to Take after a Truck Accident in Augusta
After a truck accident in Augusta, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies – Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly after the accident, but it’s important not to speak with them before consulting with us. Anything you say can be used against you to minimize your claim. Let us handle all communication with the insurance companies.
- Gather Evidence – Gather and retain as much evidence as possible. This includes photos of the accident scene, injury photos, and contact information from witnesses. You should also consider writing down your own account of what happened.
- Contact a Knowledgeable Augusta Truck Accident Attorney - The skilled legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact an Experienced Augusta Trucking Accident Lawyer Today
Truck accidents can result in serious injuries and extensive property damage. Dealing with insurance companies and navigating the legal system on your own can be overwhelming. An experienced Augusta truck accident lawyer will have the knowledge and experience to handle your case and fight for the best possible outcome.
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we’re prepared to negotiate aggressively on your behalf in pursuit of the financial recovery you need. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Augusta truck accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.