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Drivers of semi-trucks and companies or motor
carriers engaged in the operation of semi-trucks have a duty
to operate such vehicles in a responsible manner. Thousands
of people are killed or severly injured each year as a result
of motor vehicle accidents involving semi-trucks. Unsafe
driving, oversized loads and various other irresponsible
practices put the motoring public in danger.
Panessa & Associates is experienced in handling motor carrier litigation.
Georgia law provides unique remedies for recovery to those
injured by motor carrier negligence.
To protect
your legal rights, it is wise to consult a law firm that is
experienced in handling motor carrier litigation as soon as
possible. Within the first week, important physical evidence
can be lost, and witnesses may forget important details.
What To Do Following An Incident Involving a Semi-Truck
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Insist that a report be filed with the police, sheriff
or state highway patrol.
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Obtain names, addresses and telephone numbers of all
witnesses;
- Photograph
the scene where the injury occurred and any visible
injuries (cuts, bruises). Professional photographs
are generally preferable, but not essential;
- Talk
to no one about the incident or injuries other than
your personal physician or lawyer. Sign nothing without
consulting a lawyer. Truthful statements you make
in an attempt to be helpful can easily be misinterpreted
and turned against you;
- Tell
your personal physician or surgeon exactly how the
injury occurred and describe all symptoms and complaints.
Be sure to report memory problems, confusion or disorientation,
however minor these things may seem at the time. Begin
keeping a diary of how the injury or death affects
your life and family. In particular, write down all
medical related visits and everything that causes
physical pain, frustration or worry; and
- Obtain
and keep receipts for all expenses relating to the
incident.
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Recoverable Damages
Damages which a victim and the victim's family may be entitled
to recover include:
- hospital
and medical expenses;
- past
lost earnings;
- future
lost earnings; and
- past
permanent physical disability (i.e.
limp, scars, loss of a limb, emotional distress, depression,
anxiety grief, emotional pain from the death of a
loved one, damage or destruction of property, physical
pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, etc.
.).
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In Georgia,
if you are injured by the negligence of a motor carrier the
motor carrier's insurance company will be directly liable.
If
you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. You
may use our
interactive contact form,
send us an email,
or call us at 404.521.3455.
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