- Car Accidents, Truck Accident
Understanding the Key Differences in Georgia Accident Laws
When comparing a truck accident vs car accident, you might be wondering how the legal process differs for each and whether the law treats them differently. The answer is yes — there are important distinctions between the two. Understanding these differences is crucial, so if you’re ever involved in an accident, you’ll know how to seek the right compensation based on the circumstances. Let’s walk through the key differences in how truck accident vs car accident laws are applied in Alpharetta, GA, and what your rights are if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation.
Size, Weight, and Impact: The Physical Differences Between Trucks and Cars
The first major difference between a truck accident vs car accident is the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Trucks, especially large commercial ones, can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, which can cause significant damage and result in more severe injuries or even fatalities. Injuries commonly seen in truck accidents include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones.
In comparison, car accidents typically involve lighter vehicles. While car accidents can still cause serious injuries like whiplash and soft tissue damage, the severity is generally lower and less likely to be life-threatening.
Legal Complexity and Liability: Who’s Really Responsible?
When comparing truck accident vs car accident cases, assigning liability may or may not be straightforward.
In a car accident, it’s usually clear which driver was at fault, and the legal process follows a relatively simple path.
Truck accidents can be far more complex, as there are often multiple parties involved. Not only could the truck driver be at fault, but the trucking company, maintenance providers, and even the truck manufacturer may also bear some responsibility. Additionally, these accidents are subject to stricter federal regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
When it comes to truck accident vs car accident liability, you’ll need a team of attorneys who are familiar with both and can hold the responsible parties accountable. At Hartley, Rowe & Fowler, we have experience handling all types of motor vehicle cases, and are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for you.
Insurance and Compensation: Understanding Coverage Differences
Insurance coverage between truck accident vs car accident cases can also be substantially different. Commercial insurance coverage for trucks is typically much higher than for passenger vehicles. Large trucks may be required to carry coverage up to or exceeding $1 million due to the potential for significant damage and injury. However, this higher coverage also means that trucking companies and their insurers will fight aggressively to minimize their payouts.
In a car accident, the insurance coverage tends to be less, and insurance companies may offer quicker settlements. These are often much lower than what you’re entitled to, especially if you’ve sustained serious injuries. Insurance companies do this because they’re more focused on protecting their bottom lines than making sure that their victims receive fair compensation.
Whether you’re involved in a truck accident or a car accident, you need experienced legal representation to navigate the insurance process. We know how to deal with commercial and personal vehicle insurance to help you get full compensation.
Evidence and Investigation: Why Speed Is Key
While physical evidence plays a critical role in any accident case, the stakes are higher when it comes to truck accidents. Driver logs, maintenance records, and recorded data from vehicle black boxes can be vital in proving fault. Unfortunately, trucking companies may attempt to destroy or alter this evidence, making it essential to act quickly and preserve it.
Car accident evidence is usually simpler to collect. Police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence from accident scenes can be used to establish fault.
Regardless of what type of accident you’ve been in, our team will act quickly to ensure that all necessary evidence is preserved and used effectively for your case.
Statute of Limitations: Don’t Delay in Pursuing Legal Action
Both truck accidents and car accidents are subject to Georgia’s statute of limitations, which typically gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. While this may seem like a reasonable amount of time, it’s important to understand that delaying your case can have serious consequences. Evidence may be lost, and witness testimony may become less reliable over time.
For truck accidents, delays can be even more detrimental. With the added complexity of trucking regulations and multiple parties involved, timely action is essential to ensure the best possible outcome. At Hartley, Rowe & Fowler, we recommend that you contact us as soon as possible after an accident. Our team will begin investigating your case and gathering evidence right away, giving you the best chance of a successful claim.
Why You Need Experienced Legal Representation
Whether you’ve been involved in a truck accident or a car accident, having an experienced attorney can be beneficial to your claim. Truck accidents involve multiple parties, federal regulations, and complex evidence, while car accidents require negotiation skills to deal with insurance companies and legal procedures.
Hartley, Rowe & Fowler understands these key issues in truck accident vs car accident cases. Our attorneys have years of experience in personal injury law, and we’re committed to helping you through this process with compassion and professionalism. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that an accident can take, and we’re here to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Hartley, Rowe & Fowler Today
If you’ve been involved in a vehicle accident in the Alpharetta area, the process of filing a claim can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in. We’re here to fight for your rights and guide you through every step. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.
