Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents are complex and often lead to serious injuries, overwhelming insurance claims, and endless paperwork. At Wetherington Law Firm, our skilled Atlanta truck accident attorney, Matt Wetherington, investigates liability, utilizing evidence like black box data and driver logs to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. With extensive experience in Atlanta’s courts like Fulton County Superior Court, our Atlanta truck accident lawyers hold trucking companies accountable, as shown by securing a $12 million judgment resulting in multiple orthopedic injuries, ensuring the recovery you deserve.

Choosing the right truck accident attorney is critical as Georgia’s two-year statute of limitations (Georgia Code § 9-3-33) demands prompt action to preserve evidence like crash reports or surveillance footage from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport’s heavy truck routes. Look for a trucking accident attorney with a proven track record in truck accident cases, backed by strong client reviews and active affiliations with organizations like the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association. 

Don’t get overwhelmed trying to handle insurance companies and all the paperwork after a truck accident; you deserve rest and proper recovery. Our Atlanta truck accident attorney offers compassionate, personalized guidance, handling complex claims so you can focus on healing. From wrongful death cases to catastrophic injuries, we serve clients across Atlanta, from Buckhead to Decatur, with free consultations to evaluate your case. 

Our firm focuses exclusively on serious trucking accidents and wrongful death cases and we work entirely on contingency. We advance all expenses, and you pay nothing unless we win.  Our results speak for themselves; we have secured over $500 million in settlements and verdicts for our clients. If you or your loved one was involved in a truck accident in any part of Atlanta, get in touch with our Atlanta truck accident lawyer today for a free case evaluation.

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What Makes Truck Accidents Different from Car Accidents in Atlanta?

Truck accidents aren’t just bigger versions of car accidents, they’re far more complicated. Unlike typical crashes that only involve state traffic laws, truck accidents are governed by strict federal trucking regulations on driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading. On top of that, liability isn’t limited to just the driver. The trucking company, maintenance providers, cargo loaders, and even manufacturers of defective parts can all play a role. Untangling who’s responsible requires careful investigation and a deep understanding of how the trucking industry operates.

Because of their size and force, truck collisions also cause far more severe injuries than car accidents, often leaving victims with life-altering conditions like brain trauma or spinal cord damage. That’s why you don’t just need any truck accident lawyer; you need one who knows how to handle the complexity of truck accident cases. Insurance companies and trucking corporations have entire teams working to minimize payouts, and an experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyer will know how to secure crucial evidence, hold every party accountable, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

How Can an Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer Help You?

An Atlanta truck accident lawyer helps victims and families navigate the overwhelming aftermath of a commercial truck crash. These cases are far more complex than typical car accidents because they involve both Georgia negligence laws and federal trucking regulations from the FMCSA. A skilled attorney investigates every angle reviewing black box data, driver logs, crash reports, and even company records to identify all responsible parties, whether it’s the driver, the trucking company, or a parts manufacturer. They also work with experts to reconstruct the accident, prove liability, and counter defenses that insurance companies often raise to limit payouts.

Just as importantly, your truck accident attorney fights for the full compensation you deserve. That means calculating not only immediate medical bills but also long-term care, lost income, and the emotional toll these crashes cause. They ensure your case is filed within Georgia’s strict deadlines, negotiate aggressively with insurers, and, if needed, take your case to court with the trial experience to stand up to powerful trucking companies. In short, an Atlanta truck accident lawyer is both your advocate and your shield making sure no detail is overlooked and no dollar is left on the table.

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How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Georgia?

In Georgia, you generally have two years from the date of a truck accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim (Georgia Code § 9-3-33). This deadline, called the statute of limitations, is strict—if you miss it, you could lose your right to pursue compensation entirely.

That said, there are some exceptions. For example, if the victim is a minor, or if the trucking company tried to conceal evidence of negligence, the clock may be extended. Still, waiting is risky. Trucking companies and insurers move quickly to protect themselves, and vital evidence like driver logs, black box data, and surveillance footage can disappear within weeks. Speaking with an Atlanta truck accident lawyer as soon as possible ensures your case is filed on time and that critical evidence is preserved.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Trucking Accident?

Trucking accidents are rarely straightforward because multiple parties may share responsibility. Depending on the circumstances, the truck driver, truck owner, or trucking company could all be held liable, especially if negligence, poor hiring practices, or safety violations played a role. Other parties, such as the company that loaded the cargo, repair shops that failed to properly service the truck, or even road designers responsible for dangerous conditions, may also be accountable. In cases involving defective brakes, tires, or other equipment, manufacturers can be sued as well, often with no cap on damages.

Insurance coverage also plays a big role. Commercial truck drivers carry high-limit policies, but damages can exceed those limits, making it necessary to pursue additional avenues. Victims may be able to rely on their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, or even coverage under a family member’s policy. Workers injured in trucking accidents may also have claims through both workers’ compensation and personal injury lawsuits. Because identifying every liable party is key to maximizing recovery, an experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyer can help ensure no source of compensation is overlooked.

What are the Common Causes of Truck accidents in Atlanta, Georgia?

Georgia’s highways and city roads see numerous truck accidents each year. Knowing the main causes can help prevent them and protect lives.

1. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Although rare, some truckers drive under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication, which slows reaction times and impairs judgment.
2. Driver Fatigue: Long hours and tight deadlines push truckers beyond safe driving limits. Fatigue slows reaction time and impairs decision-making, increasing crash risk.
3. Distracted Driving: Phone use, eating, or adjusting GPS distracts drivers from the road. For large trucks, even a brief distraction can lead to serious accidents.
4. Speeding & Reckless Driving: Speeding and unsafe maneuvers like improper lane changes make it harder to control heavy trucks, especially on highways like I-75 and I-85.
5. Poor Maintenance: Worn brakes, tire blowouts, and engine failures are common when routine maintenance is ignored. These issues often lead to preventable crashes.
6. Bad Weather: Rain, fog, and slick roads reduce visibility and traction, making large trucks harder to control. This often results in jackknifing or rollovers.
7. Overloaded or Shifting Cargo: Overloaded trucks or improperly secured cargo can shift mid-trip, leading to rollovers or loss of control, especially on curves.

Truck Accidents in Atlanta’s Busy Traffic Corridors

Atlanta is one of the busiest freight hubs in the Southeast, and that means truck accidents happen more often here than in many other Georgia cities. Major interstates like I-20, I-75, I-85, and I-285 see constant heavy truck traffic, especially near distribution centers and industrial zones. With thousands of tractor-trailers moving goods to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and regional logistics hubs, crashes are far too common.

The mix of high-speed interstates, congested city roads, and frequent construction zones makes Atlanta uniquely dangerous for passenger vehicles sharing the road with 18-wheelers. A moment of distraction or poor maintenance can quickly turn into a devastating multi-vehicle collision on these high-traffic routes. Having a lawyer who knows these local accident patterns can make a big difference when building your claim.

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What Damages Can You Recover After a Trucking Accident in Georgia?

If you’re injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. Here’s a breakdown of key damages you can pursue:

1. Medical Expenses

Covers past, present, and future medical costs, including hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and prescription medications.

2. Lost Wages & Future Earnings

If you miss work due to injuries, you can recover lost income. If the injury affects your ability to work in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for reduced earning capacity.

3. Pain & Suffering

This covers physical pain, emotional distress, and the psychological impact of the accident. Severe injuries or long-term trauma can increase the value of this claim.

4. Property Damage

You can recover the cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any personal items damaged in the accident.

5. Loss of Consortium

If the injury impacts your relationship with your spouse (like loss of companionship), your spouse may be entitled to compensation.

6. Punitive Damages

These are awarded in extreme cases where the truck driver or company acted recklessly, like driving under the influence. Punitive damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

Each case is unique, and the amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injuries, fault, and available insurance coverage. An experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyer can ensure you get the maximum recovery possible.

If the Trucking Accident Results in a Death, Special Rules Apply

When a trucking accident results in a death, the case turns into a wrongful death claim, instead of a personal injury claim.

What to Look for in an Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer?

After a devastating truck crash, the lawyer you choose can make all the difference in securing justice and compensation. The best attorneys bring proven experience in truck accident cases, a track record of significant verdicts and settlements, and a deep understanding of federal FMCSA rules and Georgia negligence laws. They also have trial experience in courts like Fulton County Superior Court and access to expert resources such as accident reconstructionists and black box data analysts to build strong claims for damages like medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.

Just as important, top truck accident lawyers prioritize compassionate client care and clear communication. They explain Georgia’s two-year statute of limitations, offer free consultations, and work on contingency so you pay nothing unless they win. Local knowledge, quick action to preserve evidence, and the willingness to take on powerful trucking companies are key qualities. At Wetherington Law Firm, these values have led to over $500 million recovered for clients across Atlanta and beyond, with a commitment to both aggressive advocacy and genuine support for victims and families.

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Meet Matt Wetherington – Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer

Matt Wetherington, founding partner of Wetherington Law Firm, is a nationally recognized trial lawyer who has secured over $500 million in verdicts and settlements for clients across Georgia. With nearly two decades of experience, he specializes in complex trucking accident and wrongful death cases involving driver negligence, defective equipment, and corporate misconduct. His relentless advocacy includes a $12 million judgment for a motorcycle crash, earning him induction into the ALM Verdicts Hall of Fame and recognition as a Daily Report “On the Rise” honoree.

Beyond the courtroom, Matt is deeply committed to community safety and legal innovation. He founded the Tire Safety Group, chairs the Auto Accident Survivors of Georgia, and co-founded the Georgia Legal Accelerator to support small-firm lawyers. Known for compassionate client care, he has even helped clients uncover life-threatening conditions outside their cases. Backed by a “Superb” Avvo rating and GTLA Champion Member status, Matt and his team deliver personalized, trial-ready representation on a contingency basis, using tools like black box data and accident reconstruction to maximize compensation for victims and families.

Why Choose Wetherington Law Firm?

Truck accident claims are complex. You’re not just dealing with a driver—you’re up against trucking companies, freight carriers, and their insurers, all with teams of lawyers protecting their bottom line. Without experienced legal help, you’re at a disadvantage.

Here’s why Wetherington Law Firm is the right choice:

1. Local Knowledge of Atlanta’s Roads

Truck accidents often happen on high-traffic routes like Peachtree Street, I-285, and the Downtown Connector. Our attorneys know these roads, common truck routes, and accident hotspots like Midtown and Buckhead. This insight helps us pinpoint crash factors like unsafe lane changes or improper braking.

2. Fast Response and 24/7 Availability

Time is critical after a truck accident. Evidence like dashcam footage and driver logs can disappear quickly. That’s why we’re available 24/7 to start your case immediately. With a local office, you’ll have direct access to your attorney for updates and in-person meetings.

3. Taking on Big Trucking Companies

Trucking insurers use aggressive tactics to deny claims. We fight back with evidence they want to hide—like black box data and inspection records. If they won’t settle fairly, we’re ready to take them to court.

4. Personalized Support

At Wetherington Law Firm, you’ll work directly with your attorney—not just paralegals or assistants. We provide one-on-one guidance through every step of your case, ensuring you get the attention and support you deserve.

5. No Fee, Unless We Win

We believe everyone deserves access to top-tier legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. Your justice is our priority, and we’re committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve without adding financial stress.

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What are the Common Types of Truck Accident Injuries in Georgia?

Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Here are the most common types:

1. Head & Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can cause memory loss, cognitive issues, and long-term disabilities. Concussions are also common.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting mobility and quality of life.
3. Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis often require surgery, physical therapy, and extended recovery time.
4. Internal Injuries: The impact of a truck crash can damage internal organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs, which may require emergency surgery.
5. Whiplash & Neck Injuries: Sudden head movement can strain the neck muscles and ligaments, causing pain and limited mobility.
6. Burns: Fires from fuel spills or explosions can cause burns, requiring skin grafts, surgeries, and long-term medical care.
7. Cuts & Lacerations: Broken glass, metal debris, or cargo spills can cause deep cuts, leading to scarring or infection.
8. Emotional Trauma: Accidents can leave lasting emotional scars, leading to anxiety, PTSD, or depression.

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Do I Need to Go to Court for a Truck Accident Claim?

Not always. In fact, most truck accident claims in Georgia are resolved through settlement negotiations without ever going to trial. A skilled Atlanta truck accident lawyer can often present strong evidence like black box data, driver logs, and medical records to convince the trucking company’s insurer to pay fair compensation.

However, if the insurance company refuses to make a reasonable offer, going to court may be the only way to secure the full amount you deserve. The good news is that your lawyer will handle every step of the process, from filing paperwork to presenting your case before a jury if necessary. Many cases settle even after a lawsuit is filed, but having a trial-ready attorney on your side puts real pressure on insurers to treat your claim seriously.

How Much Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Cost?

The good news is that most Atlanta truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything upfront. Instead, the lawyer’s fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict—usually between 33% and 40%. If your lawyer doesn’t win your case, you don’t owe them anything. In addition, most firms cover case expenses like filing fees, expert witnesses, and records retrieval upfront, and are reimbursed only if you recover compensation. This makes hiring a lawyer accessible even if you’re facing financial strain after a crash.

The contingency model also ensures your lawyer is motivated to fight for the maximum compensation possible, since their pay depends on your success. Before signing, it’s smart to ask about the exact percentage, whether it changes if the case goes to trial, and how expenses are handled. A good truck accident attorney will be completely transparent about fees so you know exactly what to expect from the start.

Contact Our Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer

Let us focus on winning your case so you can focus on healing. We work on a contingency basis—if we don’t win, you don’t pay. We also offer free online consultations to evaluate your case. Get in touch with us today!

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Summary of Georgia Traffic Laws

Driving While Intoxicated

OCGA 40-6-253 and OCGA 40-6-391

Speeding

OCGA 40-6-181

Using a Phone While Driving

OCGA 40-6-241

Failing to Yield to Pedestrians

OCGA 40-6-91, OCGA 40-6-92, OCGA 40-6-93, and OCGA 40-6-96

Failing to Obey a Traffic Official

OCGA 40-6-2

Conducting a Police Chase in a Reckless Manner

OCGA 40-6-6

Failing to Change Lanes to Give Space for Parked Emergency Vehicles and Construction Workers

OCGA 40-6-16 and OCGA 40-6-75

Tampering with or Stealing Road Signs

OCGA 40-6-26

Failing to Maintain One Lane

OCGA 40-6-40 and OCGA 40-6-48

Going the Wrong Way on a One-Way Road

OCGA 40-6-47 and OCGA 40-6-240

Driving a Tractor-Trailer or Bus in the Far-Left Lane(s)

OCGA 40-6-52

Failing to Yield to Emergency Vehicles

OCGA 40-6-74

Making an Improper U-Turn

OCGA 40-6-121

Failing to Exercise Due Caution Near Railroad Crossings

OCGA 40-6-140 and OCGA 40-6-142

Driving Too Slow in the Fast Lane

OCGA 40-6-184

Failing to Slow and Exercise Caution in Construction Zones

OCGA 40-6-188

Obstructing an Intersection

OCGA 40-6-205

Failing to Secure all Loads

OCGA 40-6-248.1 and OCGA 40-6-254

Driving Recklessly

OCGA 40-6-390

Causing Serious Injury by Vehicle

OCGA 40-6-394

Running a Red or Yellow Traffic Light

OCGA 40-6-20, OCGA 40-6-21, and OCGA 40-6-23

Traveling Too Close to Other Vehicles

OCGA 40-6-49

Running Stop and Yield Signs

OCGA 40-6-72

Failing to Yield to Other Vehicles

OCGA 40-6-70 and OCGA 40-6-73

Driving on the Shoulder, Gore, or Other Prohibited Areas

OCGA 40-6-50

Fleeing Police Officers

OCGA 40-6-395

Road Rage

OCGA 40-6-397

Tampering with Traffic Signals

OCGA 40-6-25, OCGA 40-6-17, and OCGA 40-6-396

Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road

OCGA 40-6-40 and OCGA 40-6-45

Passing Another Vehicle Improperly

OCGA 40-6-42, OCGA 40-6-43, OCGA 40-6-44, and OCGA 40-6-46

Going the Wrong Way in a Roundabout

OCGA 40-6-47

Turning the Wrong Way at an Intersection

OCGA 40-6-71 and OCGA 40-6-120

Failing to Yield to Funeral Processions

OCGA 40-6-76

Failing to Use Turn Signals

OCGA 40-6-123

Failing to Stop First Before Exiting a Parking Lot

OCGA 40-6-144

Drag Racing

OCGA 40-6-186

Parking a Vehicle in an Unsafe Place

OCGA 40-6-202

Driving a Vehicle with an Obstructed View

OCGA 40-6-242

Laying Drags or Intentionally Making Skid Marks

OCGA 40-6-251

Intentionally Striking and Killing a Person with a Vehicle

OCGA 40-6-393

Failing to Follow Pedestrian Traffic Signals

OCGA 40-6-22

Failing to Drive Motorcycles Safely

OCGA 40-6-310 and OCGA 40-6-311