Drivers of commercial and non-commercial vehicles that are engaging in interstate hauling in Georgia are subject to regulations at the federal and state levels. These regulations speak to the appropriate size, weight, and operation of large semis and trucks engaging in similar activities, such as the hauling of a tractor-trailer. Because large vehicles can be dangerous and unwieldy, the consequences may be severe if a driver operates a vehicle that is not in compliance with these regulations.
If a motor vehicle collision with an overloaded or overweight truck has left you or your loved one severely injured, the vehicle's operator may be liable for the resulting damages. To learn the value of your injury claim, speak to a skilled attorney with experience handling personal injury cases involving overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Alpharetta.
What is Considered to be an "Overweight" Truck in Alpharetta?
As stated in O.C.G.A. §32-6-26, motor vehicles on any highways within Georgia, interstate or otherwise, are not to exceed 80,000 pounds. If a commercial or non-commercial carrier exceeds the weight limit, the vehicle's operator may need to obtain a permit to haul their load in the state.
Suppose a truck driver fails to get the proper permit before traveling within the state and is subsequently involved in a traffic accident due to their vehicle being overloaded or overweight. Because this violates state and federal law, the penalties could be significant, including large fines to potential liability of the truck driver or their employer for damages incurred by the accident.
Common Injuries in Overloaded Trucking Accidents
Due to the mass and limited maneuverability of large vehicles, traffic collisions involving overweight trucks can cause severe, permanent, or even fatal injuries to any motorists or passengers involved. Some of the more common injuries in overloaded trucking accidents include the following:
- Concussions
- Whiplash
- Internal injuries (e.g., organ damage, internal bleeding, etc.)
- Traumatic spinal cord injuries (T.S.C.I.)
- Traumatic brain injuries (T.B.I.)
- Skeletal fractures
- Severe abrasions
Claims for Overweight Semi-Truck Collisions
Regardless of how severe the injuries sustained are, any motorist or passenger hurt in a collision with a commercial or non-commercial semi-truck could potentially seek financial compensation for their losses. However, there are deadlines for personal injury claims that Alpharetta residents pursuing civil litigation must consider. Under O.C.G.A. §9-3-33, an injured party has two years from the time of injury to file a legal claim against an at-fault party for the recovery of damages. A local attorney can help those injured by overweight vehicles in Alpharetta to meet all the relevant deadlines and requirements in pursuing compensation for their losses.
Consult an Alpharetta Overloaded/Overweight Truck Accident Lawyer
When an automobile accident involves a semi-truck or large hauling truck, the resulting injuries could be devastating. When semi-trucks do not comply with federal and state weight regulations, the risk of collision and serious damage increases.
If you or a loved one were recently injured in an overloaded or overweight truck accident, you could be eligible to receive financial compensation from the driver, their insurance company, or the driver's employer, in commercial vehicle accident cases. To learn more, schedule your risk-free consultation with a knowledgeable attorney today.