18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in Georgia

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Georgia on I-75, I-85, or I-20. The next, an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler is jackknifing across your lane, or you’re trapped beneath a trailer in an underride collision, or a fatigued driver has drifted across the centerline into your path.

Every 16 minutes, someone in America is injured in a commercial truck crash. In Georgia—where I-75 serves as the primary north-south freight corridor connecting Florida to Tennessee, where I-85 carries massive port traffic from Savannah to Atlanta, and where I-20 funnels cross-country freight through Augusta and Atlanta—the risk is even higher. The Georgia Department of Transportation reports that commercial vehicle crashes occur with alarming frequency on these corridors, particularly where interstate traffic merges with local commuter patterns around Atlanta, Macon, and Savannah.

If you’re reading this, you or someone you love may have already experienced this nightmare. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re facing. Ralph Manginello has spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims—since 1998, he’s been holding trucking companies accountable for the devastation their negligence causes. Our firm has recovered over $50 million for families across the United States, including multi-million dollar settlements for traumatic brain injury victims, amputees, and families who’ve lost loved ones to wrongful death.

And here’s what sets us apart: our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working as an insurance defense attorney. He knows exactly how trucking insurance companies evaluate claims, train their adjusters to minimize payouts, and deny legitimate claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight FOR you—exposing every tactic they try to use against you.

We don’t just handle cases. We treat you like family. As our client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” And when it comes to results, we fight for every dollar you deserve. Glenda Walker told us, “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Georgia, call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. The trucking company already has lawyers working to protect them. You need someone fighting for you.

Why Georgia 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Georgia’s position as a critical freight hub creates unique dangers for motorists. The Port of Savannah—now the fourth-largest container port in the United States and the fastest-growing major port—generates massive truck traffic throughout the state. This freight flows north on I-95, west on I-16 to Atlanta, and then disperses across the country via I-75, I-85, and I-20.

The Atlanta metropolitan area presents particularly hazardous conditions. The I-285 Perimeter—often called “The Perimeter” by locals—carries enormous volumes of truck traffic attempting to bypass downtown Atlanta. The intersection of I-85 and I-285, known locally as “Spaghetti Junction,” is one of the most complex and dangerous interchanges in the United States. Truck rollovers, jackknifes, and multi-vehicle pileups occur with disturbing frequency here.

Georgia’s weather patterns add additional risks. Summer thunderstorms can create sudden hydroplaning conditions. Winter ice storms—particularly in the Atlanta area where they’re relatively rare—can paralyze highways and create catastrophic truck accidents. The January 2014 “Snowpocalypse” demonstrated how quickly Georgia interstates can become deadly when trucks lose control on ice.

Ralph Manginello understands these Georgia-specific factors. With 25+ years of experience and admission to federal court, he’s equipped to handle complex interstate trucking cases that touch Georgia’s federal jurisdiction. When you need an attorney who knows how Georgia’s highways, weather, and courts affect your case, you need Attorney911.

The 15 Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle like a pocket knife. The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic.

On Georgia’s I-75, I-85, and I-20 corridors—where sudden traffic slowdowns are common near Atlanta, Macon, and Augusta—jackknife accidents pose particular dangers. A truck traveling at 70 mph that encounters stopped traffic has almost no chance of avoiding a jackknife if the driver brakes improperly.

Jackknife accidents account for approximately 10% of all trucking-related deaths. They often result in multi-vehicle pileups when the trailer blocks multiple lanes. Nearly impossible for nearby drivers to avoid once a jackknife begins.

Common causes include sudden or improper braking on wet or icy roads, speeding on curves, empty or lightly loaded trailers, improperly loaded cargo, brake system failures, and driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers.

FMCSA violations often present include 49 CFR § 393.48 (brake system malfunction), 49 CFR § 393.100 (improper cargo securement), and 49 CFR § 392.6 (speeding for conditions).

If you’ve been injured in a jackknife accident on Georgia highways, call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. We know how to prove brake failures, cargo shifts, and driver errors that cause these devastating crashes.

Rollover Accidents

A rollover occurs when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. Due to the truck’s high center of gravity and massive weight—up to 80,000 pounds—rollovers are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents.

Georgia’s highway geometry creates rollover risks. The I-285 Perimeter around Atlanta features curves and interchanges where trucks traveling too fast can easily roll. The mountainous sections of I-75 in North Georgia—particularly near the Tennessee border—present steep grades and sharp curves where rollovers are common.

Approximately 50% of rollover crashes result from failure to adjust speed on curves. Rollovers frequently lead to secondary crashes from debris and fuel spills. Often fatal or cause catastrophic injuries to both truck occupants and other vehicles.

Common causes include speeding on curves, ramps, or turns; taking turns too sharply; improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo; liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity; overcorrection after tire blowout; driver fatigue; and road design defects.

FMCSA violations include 49 CFR § 393.100-136 (cargo securement violations), 49 CFR § 392.6 (exceeding safe speed), and 49 CFR § 392.3 (operating while fatigued).

If a rollover accident has injured you or a loved one in Georgia, you need an attorney who understands cargo securement physics and speed analysis. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we’ve recovered millions for rollover victims.

Underride Collisions

An underride collision occurs when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. The trailer height often causes the smaller vehicle’s passenger compartment to be sheared off at windshield level.

These are among the most FATAL types of 18-wheeler accidents. Approximately 400-500 underride deaths occur annually in the United States. Rear underride and side underride are both deadly; side underride has no federal guard requirement.

On Georgia’s busy interstates—particularly I-75, I-85, and I-20 where traffic moves at high speeds—underride accidents present devastating risks. A vehicle that rear-ends a slow-moving or stopped truck at highway speed has almost no chance of avoiding catastrophic underride.

Common causes include inadequate or missing underride guards, worn or damaged rear impact guards, truck sudden stops without adequate warning, low visibility conditions, truck lane changes into blind spots, wide right turns cutting off traffic, and inadequate rear lighting or reflectors.

FMCSA/NHTSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.86 (rear impact guards required on trailers manufactured after 1/26/1998). Guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact. NO FEDERAL REQUIREMENT for side underride guards—advocacy ongoing.

Injuries are almost always fatal or catastrophic: decapitation, severe head and neck trauma, death of all vehicle occupants, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord severance.

If you’ve lost a loved one to an underride accident in Georgia, we are deeply sorry. These cases require immediate investigation of guard compliance and lighting. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a compassionate, confidential consultation.

Rear-End Collisions

A rear-end collision occurs when an 18-wheeler strikes the back of another vehicle or when a vehicle strikes the back of a truck. Due to the truck’s massive weight and longer stopping distances, these accidents cause devastating injuries.

18-wheelers require 20-40% more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. Rear-end collisions are the second most common type of large truck crash.

On Georgia’s congested interstates—particularly around Atlanta where sudden traffic stops are routine—rear-end truck accidents occur with alarming frequency. A truck driver distracted by a cell phone, fatigued from hours of service violations, or simply following too closely has almost no chance of stopping in time.

Common causes include following too closely (tailgating), driver distraction (cell phone, dispatch communications), driver fatigue and delayed reaction, excessive speed for traffic conditions, brake failures from poor maintenance, failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns, and impaired driving.

FMCSA violations include 49 CFR § 392.11 (following too closely), 49 CFR § 392.3 (operating while fatigued), 49 CFR § 392.82 (mobile phone use), and 49 CFR § 393.48 (brake system deficiencies).

Injuries include whiplash, spinal cord injuries, TBI from impact, internal organ damage, crushing injuries when vehicle is pushed into other objects, and wrongful death.

If a truck rear-ended you on Georgia highways, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll prove following distance violations, brake failures, and driver distraction that caused your crash.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Wide turn accidents occur when an 18-wheeler swings wide—often to the left—before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle that entered the gap.

Why trucks make wide turns: 18-wheelers need significant space to complete turns. The trailer tracks inside the path of the cab. Drivers must swing wide to avoid curbs, signs, or buildings.

In Georgia’s urban areas—particularly Atlanta, Savannah, and Macon—wide turn accidents pose serious risks to motorists and cyclists. Tight downtown streets, busy intersections, and mixed traffic create dangerous conditions where truck drivers must execute difficult maneuvers.

Common causes include failure to properly signal turning intention, inadequate mirror checks before and during turn, improper turn technique (swinging too early or too wide), driver inexperience with trailer tracking, failure to yield right-of-way when completing turn, and poor intersection design forcing wide turns.

Evidence includes turn signal activation data from ECM, mirror condition and adjustment records, driver training records on turning procedures, intersection geometry analysis, witness statements on turn execution, and surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses.

FMCSA violations include 49 CFR § 392.11 (unsafe lane changes), 49 CFR § 392.2 (failure to obey traffic signals), and state traffic law violations for improper turns.

Injuries include crushing injuries from being caught between truck and curb/building, sideswipe injuries, pedestrian and cyclist fatalities, TBI, and amputations.

If a truck’s wide turn injured you in Georgia, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We investigate turn signal data, mirror compliance, and driver training to prove negligence.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Blind spot accidents occur when an 18-wheeler changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots (No-Zones).

The Four No-Zones:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab—driver cannot see low vehicles
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer—no rear-view mirror visibility
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward—smaller than right side
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward, much larger than left—MOST DANGEROUS

Right-side blind spot accidents are especially dangerous due to larger blind spot area. Many blind spot accidents occur during lane changes on highways.

On Georgia’s multi-lane interstates—particularly I-285 around Atlanta where trucks frequently change lanes to navigate the Perimeter, and I-75/I-85 through downtown where lane changes are constant—blind spot accidents pose severe risks to passenger vehicles.

Common causes include failure to check mirrors before lane changes, improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors, inadequate mirror checking during sustained maneuvers, driver distraction during lane changes, driver fatigue affecting situational awareness, and failure to use turn signals allowing other drivers to anticipate.

Evidence includes mirror condition and adjustment at time of crash, lane change data from ECM/telematics, turn signal activation records, driver training on blind spot awareness, dashcam footage, and witness statements on truck behavior.

FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.80—mirrors must provide clear view to rear on both sides. Proper mirror adjustment is part of driver pre-trip inspection.

Injuries include sideswipe injuries causing vehicle loss of control, rollover of passenger vehicle, crushing injuries, ejection from vehicle, TBI, and spinal injuries.

If a truck changed lanes into you on Georgia highways, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll prove mirror violations, blind spot negligence, and failure to signal.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowout accidents occur when one or more tires on an 18-wheeler suddenly fail, causing the driver to lose control. Debris from the blown tire can also strike other vehicles.

18-wheelers have 18 tires, each of which can fail. Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous—can cause immediate loss of control. “Road gators” (tire debris) cause thousands of accidents annually.

Georgia’s climate creates particular tire blowout risks. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, and asphalt road surfaces can reach 140°F or higher. This extreme heat causes tire rubber to degrade faster and increases blowout risk dramatically. The long, straight stretches of I-75 and I-16 also contribute to heat buildup from sustained high-speed driving.

Common causes include underinflated tires causing overheating, overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity, worn or aging tires not replaced, road debris punctures, manufacturing defects, improper tire matching on dual wheels, heat buildup on long hauls, and inadequate pre-trip tire inspections.

Evidence includes tire maintenance and inspection records, tire age and wear documentation, tire inflation records and pressure checks, vehicle weight records from weigh stations, tire manufacturer and purchase records, and failed tire for defect analysis.

FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.75 (tire requirements—tread depth, condition) and 49 CFR § 396.13 (pre-trip inspection must include tire check). Minimum tread depth: 4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on other positions.

Injuries include resulting jackknife or rollover causing catastrophic injuries, tire debris strikes following vehicles causing windshield impacts and loss of control, TBI, facial trauma, and wrongful death.

If a tire blowout caused your Georgia trucking accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate maintenance records, heat conditions, and manufacturing defects.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failure accidents occur when an 18-wheeler’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision.

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations. Complete brake failure is often the result of systematic maintenance neglect.

Georgia’s terrain creates specific brake failure risks. The mountainous sections of I-75 in North Georgia feature steep grades where brake fade is common. Truck drivers unfamiliar with mountain driving may overuse service brakes on descents, causing overheating and complete brake failure. The long, straight stretches of I-16 between Savannah and Macon also contribute to brake overheating from sustained high-speed driving with minimal cooling periods.

Common causes include worn brake pads or shoes not replaced, improper brake adjustment (too loose), air brake system leaks or failures, overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents, contaminated brake fluid, defective brake components, failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections, and deferred maintenance to save costs.

Evidence includes brake inspection and maintenance records, out-of-service inspection history, ECM data showing brake application and effectiveness, post-crash brake system analysis, driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs), and mechanic work orders and parts records.

FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.40-55 (brake system requirements), 49 CFR § 396.3 (systematic inspection and maintenance), 49 CFR § 396.11 (driver post-trip report of brake condition), and specified air brake pushrod travel limits.

Injuries include severe rear-end collision injuries, multi-vehicle pileups, TBI from high-speed impact, spinal cord injuries, wrongful death, and crushing injuries.

If brake failure caused your Georgia trucking accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. We’ll prove maintenance neglect and system failures.

Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

Cargo spill and shift accidents occur when improperly secured cargo falls from a truck, shifts during transport causing instability, or spills onto the roadway.

Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations. Shifted cargo causes rollover accidents when center of gravity changes. Spilled cargo on highways causes secondary accidents.

Georgia’s port-driven economy creates massive cargo spill risks. The Port of Savannah’s explosive growth means thousands of container trucks daily on I-16, I-95, and I-75. Improperly secured container loads, overweight trailers, and shifting cargo from improper blocking create constant hazards. The agricultural trucking from Georgia’s vast farming operations—peaches, peanuts, poultry, and cotton—also generates significant cargo spill risks from improperly secured loads.

Types include cargo shift (load moves during transit, destabilizing truck), cargo spill (load falls from truck onto roadway), and hazmat spill (hazardous materials leak or spill, creating additional dangers).

Common causes include inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength), improper loading distribution, failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats, tiedown failure due to wear or damage, overloading beyond securement capacity, failure to re-inspect cargo during trip, and loose tarps allowing cargo shift.

Evidence includes cargo securement inspection photos, bill of lading and cargo manifest, loading company records, tiedown specifications and condition, 49 CFR 393 compliance documentation, and driver training on cargo securement.

FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.100-136 (complete cargo securement standards), working load limits for tiedowns specified, and specific requirements by cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.).

Injuries include vehicles struck by falling cargo, chain-reaction accidents from spilled loads, hazmat exposure injuries, and rollover injuries when cargo shifts.

If cargo spill or shift caused your Georgia trucking accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate loading procedures, securement compliance, and weight violations.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions occur when an 18-wheeler crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.

Head-on collisions are among the deadliest accident types. Even at moderate combined speeds, the force is often fatal. Often occur on two-lane highways or from wrong-way entry.

Georgia’s highway system creates specific head-on collision risks. The two-lane sections of state highways—particularly in rural areas where passing zones invite dangerous overtaking—see frequent head-on truck crashes. The divided interstates can become deadly when fatigued or impaired drivers cross medians, as seen in numerous catastrophic crashes on I-75 and I-85.

Common causes include driver fatigue causing lane departure, driver falling asleep at the wheel, driver distraction (phone, GPS, dispatch), impaired driving (drugs, alcohol), medical emergency (heart attack, seizure), overcorrection after running off road, passing on two-lane roads, and wrong-way entry onto divided highways.

Evidence includes ELD data for HOS compliance and fatigue, ECM data showing lane departure and steering, cell phone records for distraction, driver medical records and certification, drug and alcohol test results, and route and dispatch records.

FMCSA violations include 49 CFR § 395 (hours of service violations), 49 CFR § 392.3 (operating while fatigued), 49 CFR § 392.4/5 (drug or alcohol violations), and 49 CFR § 392.82 (mobile phone use).

Injuries include catastrophic injuries or death. The closing speed combines both vehicles’ velocities. TBI, spinal cord injuries, internal organ damage, amputations, crushing injuries, wrongful death.

If you’ve lost a loved one or suffered catastrophic injuries in a Georgia head-on truck collision, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll prove fatigue, distraction, or impairment caused this devastating crash.

T-Bone/Intersection Accidents

T-bone accidents occur when a truck fails to yield or runs a red light, striking a vehicle broadside. Common at intersections with obstructed sightlines, these crashes cause catastrophic injuries to drivers and passengers on the struck side.

Georgia’s intersection design creates T-bone risks. The complex interchanges around Atlanta—particularly Spaghetti Junction (I-85/I-285) and the I-75/I-85 Downtown Connector—feature short merge zones and limited sightlines. Rural intersections on state highways often lack adequate lighting and signage, creating deadly conditions when fatigued truck drivers fail to stop.

Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe accidents occur when a truck changes lanes into an occupied space. Often resulting from blind spot failures, these crashes can cause loss of control and secondary collisions.

On Georgia’s multi-lane interstates—particularly I-285 where trucks frequently change lanes to navigate the Perimeter, and I-75/I-85 through Atlanta where lane changes are constant—sideswipe accidents present severe risks.

Override Accidents

Override accidents occur when a truck drives over a smaller vehicle in front. Often occurring when a truck fails to stop in time, these crashes are similar to rear-end collisions but with the vehicle passing under the truck.

Lost Wheel/Detached Trailer Accidents

These accidents occur when a wheel or trailer separates during operation. Caused by maintenance and inspection failures, these incidents often strike oncoming vehicles with fatal results.

Runaway Truck Accidents

Runaway truck accidents occur when brake fade on long descents causes complete brake failure. Failure to use runaway ramps and driver inexperience with mountain driving contribute to these devastating crashes.

Georgia’s mountainous terrain in the north creates runaway truck risks. The steep grades on I-75 near the Tennessee border, and the mountain passes on state highways, require proper brake technique that inexperienced or fatigued drivers may not employ.

All 10 Potentially Liable Parties in Georgia Trucking Accidents

Most law firms only sue the driver and trucking company. We investigate EVERY potentially liable party—because more defendants means more insurance coverage means higher compensation for you.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct including speeding, distracted driving, fatigued driving beyond legal limits, impaired driving, failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections, and violation of traffic laws.

We pursue the driver’s driving record, ELD data showing hours of service, drug and alcohol test results, cell phone records, previous accident history, and training records.

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and most responsibility for safety.

Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring (failed to check driver’s background), negligent training (inadequate safety training), negligent supervision (failed to monitor driver behavior), negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep), and negligent scheduling (pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations).

We subpoena Driver Qualification Files, hiring policies, training records, supervision practices, dispatch records showing schedule pressure, safety culture documentation, and CSA scores.

Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million or more in insurance—making them the primary recovery target.

3. Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged shipment may be liable for providing improper loading instructions, failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo, requiring overweight loading, or pressuring carrier to expedite beyond safe limits.

4. Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo may be liable for improper securement under 49 CFR 393, unbalanced load distribution, exceeding vehicle weight ratings, or failure to use proper blocking, bracing, and tiedowns.

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The manufacturer may be liable for design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement), manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures), failure to warn of known dangers, or defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning).

6. Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture brakes, tires, steering components, or other parts may be liable for defective products that fail and cause accidents.

7. Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for negligent repairs, failure to identify critical safety issues, improper brake adjustments, using substandard parts, or returning vehicles to service with known defects.

8. Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for negligent carrier selection—choosing a carrier with poor safety record, failing to verify insurance and authority, failing to check CSA scores, or selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns.

9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for negligent entrustment, failure to maintain owned equipment, or knowledge of driver’s unfitness.

10. Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable for dangerous road design, failure to maintain roads, inadequate signage for known hazards, failure to install safety barriers, or improper work zone setup.

Special considerations: Sovereign immunity limits government liability. Strict notice requirements and short deadlines apply. Must prove actual notice of dangerous condition in many cases.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol: Why Time Is Critical

In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Critical Evidence Timelines

The Spoliation Letter: Your Evidence Protection

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

Why it matters: It puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation. Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation. The sooner sent, the more weight it carries.

When we send it: IMMEDIATELY—within 24-48 hours of being retained. We don’t wait.

What Our Spoliation Letter Demands

Electronic Data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Dispatch communications and messaging
• Cell phone records and text messages
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and resume
• Background check and driving record
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire records and replacement history
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Bills of lading and cargo documentation
• Insurance policies
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Hiring and supervision policies

Physical Evidence:

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if blowout involved

ECM/Black Box Data: The Objective Truth

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data—similar to an airplane’s black box.

Types of Electronic Recording:

Critical Data Points:

• Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
• Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
• Throttle Position: Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
• Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
• Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
• GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
• Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues driver ignored

Why This Data Wins Cases: ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.

WE SEND SPOLIATION LETTERS IMMEDIATELY TO PRESERVE THIS DATA.

Catastrophic Injuries: The Life-Changing Reality of Georgia Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception.

Size and Weight Disparity

Impact Force: Force = Mass × Acceleration. An 80,000 lb truck at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car. This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Common Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, sensory problems, speech difficulties, personality changes.

Long-Term Consequences: Permanent cognitive impairment, inability to work, need for ongoing care and supervision, increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s, depression and emotional disorders.

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity.

Our Experience: We’ve recovered $1.5 million to $9.8 million for TBI victims. As our client Ernest Cano said, “Mr. Manginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.”

If you or a loved one suffered TBI in a Georgia trucking accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We understand the lifelong impact and fight for full compensation.

Spinal Cord Injury

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Level of Injury Matters: Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions. C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator for breathing. Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms.

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
• Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

If spinal cord injury has changed your life after a Georgia trucking accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We fight for the lifetime care and compensation you deserve.

Amputation

Types:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed

Common in 18-Wheeler Accidents Due To: Crushing forces from truck impact, entrapment requiring amputation for extraction, severe burns requiring surgical removal, infections from open wounds.

Ongoing Medical Needs: Initial surgery and hospitalization, prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ per prosthetic), replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime, physical therapy and rehabilitation, occupational therapy for daily living skills, psychological counseling.

Impact on Life: Permanent disability, career limitations or total disability, phantom limb pain, body image and psychological trauma, need for home modifications, dependency on others for daily activities.

Our Experience: We’ve recovered $1.9 million to $8.6 million for amputation victims.

If amputation has changed your life after a Georgia trucking accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We understand the lifelong challenges and fight for full compensation.

Severe Burns

How Burns Occur in 18-Wheeler Accidents: Fuel tank rupture and fire, hazmat cargo spills and ignition, electrical fires from battery/wiring damage, friction burns from road contact, chemical burns from hazmat exposure.

Burn Classification:

Long-Term Consequences: Permanent scarring and disfigurement, multiple reconstructive surgeries, skin graft procedures, chronic pain, infection risks, psychological trauma.

If severe burns have changed your life after a Georgia trucking accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We fight for the compensation needed for lifelong care.

Internal Organ Damage

Common Internal Injuries: Liver laceration or rupture, spleen damage requiring removal, kidney damage, lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax), internal bleeding (hemorrhage), bowel and intestinal damage.

Why Dangerous: May not show immediate symptoms, internal bleeding can be life-threatening, requires emergency surgery, organ removal affects long-term health.

If internal injuries from a Georgia trucking accident have threatened your life, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We ensure all medical consequences are fully compensated.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills, wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to recover compensation.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Georgia: Surviving spouse, children (minor and adult), parents (especially if no spouse or children), estate representative.

Types of Claims: Wrongful Death Action (compensation for survivors’ losses), Survival Action (compensation for decedent’s pain/suffering before death).

Damages Available: Lost future income and benefits, loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance), mental anguish and emotional suffering, funeral and burial expenses, medical expenses before death, punitive damages (if gross negligence).

Our Experience: We’ve recovered $1.9 million to $9.5 million for wrongful death cases. We understand that no amount of money replaces your loved one—but holding the trucking company accountable can prevent future tragedies and provide financial security for your family.

If you’ve lost a loved one in a Georgia trucking accident, we are deeply sorry. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a compassionate, confidential consultation. We’ll fight for justice for your family.

FMCSA Regulations: The Rules Trucking Companies Break

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates ALL commercial motor vehicles. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation.

The 6 Critical Parts of FMCSA Regulations

Hours of Service Violations—The Most Common Cause of Fatigue Crashes

Property-Carrying Drivers (Most 18-Wheelers):

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate (49 CFR § 395.8):

Since December 18, 2017, most CMV drivers must use ELDs that automatically record driving time, synchronize with vehicle engine, cannot be altered after the fact (unlike paper logs), and record GPS location, speed, and engine hours.

Why ELD Data Is Critical Evidence:

ELDs prove exactly how long the driver was on duty, whether breaks were taken as required, speed before and during the accident, GPS location history, and any HOS violations.

WE SEND SPOLIATION LETTERS IMMEDIATELY TO PRESERVE THIS DATA.

If you suspect driver fatigue caused your Georgia trucking accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. We’ll obtain ELD data before it’s destroyed.

Georgia State Law: Your Rights and Deadlines

Statute of Limitations

In Georgia, you have 2 years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the 2-year period runs from the date of death.

Critical warning: While 2 years sounds like plenty of time, waiting is dangerous. Evidence in trucking cases disappears within days or weeks. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company is building their defense right now.

We recommend contacting an attorney within days, not months.

Comparative Negligence in Georgia

Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 50% bar. This means:

• If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are more than 50% at fault, you recover nothing

Example: If your damages are $500,000 and you’re found 20% at fault, you recover $400,000 (80% of total damages). If you’re found 51% at fault, you recover $0.

This makes proving the truck driver’s fault critical. The trucking company and their insurer will try to blame you. We fight back with ECM data, ELD records, witness testimony, and accident reconstruction.

Punitive Damages in Georgia

Georgia law allows punitive damages to punish defendants for willful misconduct, malice, fraud, wantonness, oppression, or conscious indifference to consequences. However, Georgia caps punitive damages at $250,000 in most personal injury cases, with exceptions for:

• Intentional torts
• Cases where defendant was under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Product liability cases

Despite the cap, punitive damages can significantly increase case value and pressure defendants to settle.

Insurance Coverage: Why Trucking Cases Are High-Value

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies.

Federal Minimum Liability Limits

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Types of Damages Recoverable

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

• Medical expenses (past, present, future)
• Lost wages and income
• Lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Life care costs for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Physical impairment

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):
Available when defendants acted with gross negligence, willful misconduct, conscious indifference to safety, or fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence).

Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia 18-Wheeler Accidents

Immediate After-Accident Questions

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Georgia?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Georgia, take these steps immediately if you’re able: Call 911 and report the accident. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Document the scene with photos and video if possible. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information. Collect witness contact information. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company. Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately.

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Georgia hospitals and trauma centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene in Georgia?

Document everything possible: truck and trailer license plates, DOT number (on truck door), trucking company name and logo, driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info, photos of all vehicle damage, photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks, photos of your injuries, witness names and phone numbers, responding officer’s name and badge number, weather and road conditions.

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Georgia?

IMMEDIATELY—within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Trucking Company & Driver Questions

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Georgia?

Multiple parties may be liable: the truck driver, the trucking company/motor carrier, the cargo owner or shipper, the company that loaded the cargo, truck or parts manufacturers, maintenance companies, freight brokers, the truck owner (if different from carrier), and government entities (for road defects). We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring, negligent training, negligent supervision, and negligent maintenance.

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

Evidence & Investigation Questions

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data—similar to airplane black boxes. This data shows speed before and during the crash, brake application timing, engine RPM and throttle position, whether cruise control was engaged, and GPS location. This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately—once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Georgia 18-Wheeler Accident Case

25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, he can handle complex interstate trucking cases that touch Georgia’s federal jurisdiction. He’s gone toe-to-toe with Fortune 500 corporations like BP in the Texas City Refinery explosion litigation—one of the few Texas firms involved in that $2.1 billion disaster.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking insurance companies evaluate claims, train their adjusters to minimize payouts, and deny legitimate claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight FOR you—exposing every tactic they try to use against you.

This isn’t just a credential. It’s your unfair advantage. When the insurance company thinks they can lowball you, Lupe knows their playbook. When they claim your injuries aren’t serious, he knows how they train adjusters to say that. When they threaten to deny your claim, he knows exactly when they’re bluffing.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ million for traumatic brain injury (falling log at logging company)
• $3.8+ million for partial leg amputation (car accident with medical complications)
• $2+ million for maritime back injury (Jones Act case)
• $2.5+ million for commercial truck crash recovery
• Millions for multiple wrongful death cases

Currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi fraternity for hazing injuries—demonstrating our capability to take on major institutional defendants.

4.9-Star Client Satisfaction

With 251+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star average, our clients consistently praise our personal attention and results:

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” — Chad Harris

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” — Glenda Walker

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” — Donald Wilcox

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” — Angel Walle

Three Office Locations Serving Georgia

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve trucking accident victims throughout Texas and beyond. For Georgia clients, we offer remote consultations and travel to you for your case. Our federal court experience means we can represent you in Georgia’s federal jurisdiction when interstate commerce is involved.

Contingency Fee—No Fee Unless We Win

You pay absolutely nothing unless we win your case. We advance all investigation expenses. Standard contingency fee: 33.33% pre-trial, 40% if trial is necessary. You never receive a bill from us.

Hablamos Español

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. For Georgia’s Hispanic community—particularly the significant Spanish-speaking workforce in trucking, agriculture, and construction—this means clear communication and culturally competent representation.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Your Next Step: Call Attorney911 Today

The trucking company that hit you has already called their lawyers. Their insurance adjuster is already looking for ways to pay you less. Their rapid-response team is already at the scene gathering evidence to protect them.

What are you doing?

Every hour you wait, evidence disappears. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company is building their defense right now.

We don’t wait. When you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, we:

1. Answer immediately—24/7 availability for trucking accident emergencies
2. Send spoliation letters within hours—demanding preservation of all evidence
3. Deploy investigators—to document the scene before it’s cleared
4. Subpoena ELD and ECM data—before it can be overwritten
5. Identify all liable parties—not just the obvious ones

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. Lupe Peña knows the insurance company’s playbook from the inside. Together, we’ve recovered over $50 million for families devastated by trucking negligence.

We treat you like family—not a case number. As Chad Harris told us: “You are FAMILY to them.”

And we get results. As Glenda Walker said: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

The consultation is free. The call is confidential. And you pay nothing unless we win.

If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident anywhere in Georgia—whether on I-75 through Atlanta, I-85 through Greenville-Spartanburg, I-20 through Augusta, or any highway in between—call Attorney911 now.

1-888-ATTY-911

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Your fight starts with one call. We answer. We fight. We win.