Over the weekend, officials reported that it took them several hours to successfully clear the remnants of a tragic accident that happened on Interstate 85 near Peachtree Road in Suwanee, Gwinnett County.
A county officer confirmed that there was one fatality, following the reported collision of a passenger vehicle and a tractor trailer. A video sent to a local news station by a passing motorist showed the trailer engulfed in white smoke. A photograph reportedly revealed a car pinned below a burned out section of the trailer.
According to one witness, “The small car was pressed between the tractor trailer and the railing, completely engulfed in fire.” A Police Department spokesman said both vehicles were traveling southbound on I-85 north of Old Peachtree Road when the two vehicles collided. The car apparently caught fire sometime shortly after the collision, trapping the driver of the passenger vehicle. As a result, the driver of the car died at the scene.
The accident remains under investigation. Authorities reported that additional information, including any potential charges, would be released the following week.
This accident is incredibly tragic. While there is not enough factual information to speculate as to the cause or potential fault, it seems likely that the sheer size of the tractor trailer played at least a small part in causing the fire to erupt in the passenger vehicle. Whether the truck driver was responsible for causing the accident in the first place will have to be determined through the investigation.
Commercial truck drivers are required to follow certain federal regulations regarding length of driving periods, mandatory minimum rest breaks, and other relevant safety guidelines. In some cases, the companies that employ these drivers will provide financial incentives to drivers who deliver their loads ahead of schedule. This can lead to potentially deadly results. Driver fatigue is one of the most common causes of accidents involving commercial truck drivers. When companies encourage their drivers to break laws and ignore their rest cues, they should be held accountable for any resulting injuries or damages that their actions may cause.
If you believe that another driver’s negligence was responsible for causing your car accident, you may potentially be able to recover financial compensation for any damages you may have suffered. These include things such as damage to your car, any resultant medical bills, an amount for pain & suffering, any lost wages at work, and other related expenses as the case may be.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, consult an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney as soon as possible. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience in personal injury cases. He is skilled at representing individuals and their families in the greater Atlanta area who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Sleepy Driver Causes Multi Vehicle Collision, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published October 21, 2013
Road Rage Suspected in Deadly Gainesville Crash, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published October 9, 2013
The man was apparently initially discovered by the camera crews of a local news station, prompting the employees of the news station to call 911, as the truck was stopped in a lane of traffic, with the engine still running, as the man lay asleep behind the wheel.
A Georgia Department of Transportation HERO unit arrived and tried to revive the man and remove the keys from the ignition. The driver awoke, engaged in some sort of confrontation with the HERO worker and sped off, nearly hitting the HERO worker, and colliding into two other cars. This caused a chain reaction that eventually resulted in a five car accident. The incident reportedly occurred at the Buford Connector near downtown Atlanta.
The HERO worker was finally able to get the keys out of the man’s truck, prompting the driver to attempt to flee on foot, reportedly jumping over a barbed wire fence. The police have reportedly been unable to track the man down. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured as a result of the incident.
This case, like most accidents, is one that could have easily been avoided. It remains unclear what the man must have been thinking when he not only fought the HERO worker, but then instead of pulling his vehicle over, instead accelerated into traffic, causing a collision.
People understandably become tired; it is human nature to need a certain amount of sleep. However, what is not acceptable is resisting the urge to rest, and failing to pull to the side of the road when we start to notice the signs of fatigue taking over.
So-called “drowsy driving” is so prevalent, in fact, that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration joined together with several other organizations to conduct a study into the problem, and investigate potential solutions. Among the findings of the study:
“NHTSA data indicate that in recent years there have been about 56,000 crashes annually in which driver drowsiness/fatigue was cited by police. Annual averages of roughly 40,000 nonfatal injuries and 1,550 fatalities result from these crashes.”
And these statistics are believed to be underreported, meaning an even greater number of collisions may be a result of a drowsy driver behind the wheel.
Drivers are required to drive in a way which does not create an unnecessary or undue risk for pedestrians and others driving on the road. When a driver engages in a behavior that puts others at risk, he or she should be held accountable for any damages, including personal injury, which they cause. In this case, once apprehended, the man responsible for causing the massive accident could potentially face both criminal and civil lawsuits arising out of his questionable decisionmaking.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, consult an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney as soon as possible. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. We will handle your case with the utmost care, and pride ourselves in following the highest ethical standards of representation. Call us today at (404)-370-1000 in order to schedule your free initial consultation, or you can reach us through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Road Rage Suspected in Deadly Gainesville Crash, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published October 9, 2013
Multiple Fatalities in Church Bus Collision, including Atlanta Truck Driver, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published October 2, 2013
A police spokesman said in a statement that a 911 call was received wherein the caller stated that a pickup truck was repeatedly and aggressively hitting a Toyota Highlander from behind for unknown reasons. The call came in just after midnight.
According to the transcript of the 911 call, the couple in the Highlander said that the truck had been following them for some time, and that he repeatedly turned his headlights off and on, and continued to ram into the back of their vehicle.
Then, according to police, the driver of the pickup truck attempted to pass the Highlander, and crashed head on into an SUV in oncoming traffic. The crash can be heard on the recording of the 911 call. The caller stated that the man, “just hit somebody head-on going about 70 miles an hour.” Both the driver of the pickup and the SUV died during the collision.
The pickup was reportedly also carrying two female passengers, both of whom were taken to a local hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
There are several different things going on here. First and foremost, if the statements regarding his driving are true, the driver of the pickup was operating his pickup in a reckless manner. By intentionally and repeatedly slamming into the car in front of him at highway speeds, he was putting not only the individuals in the Highlander at risk, but also his passengers, and anyone else on the road for that matter. This behavior seems to strongly indicate that he was not operating his truck in the way that a reasonably prudent (careful) person would do, which is a requirement in establishing a negligence claim. Therefore, all of those individuals directly affected by this recklessness would have a strong claim against the driver (his estate) for any personal injury or property damaged that his actions caused.
Secondly, and unfortunately tragically, the reckless driving led to a subsequent decision to attempt to pass the Highlander, and resulted in a head on collision with the driver of the SUV. Literally but for his reckless driving, the young woman who was driving the SUV would still be alive, likely meeting the standard for a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death claims attempt to compensate families for the loss of love and companionship of their loved one. Additionally, if the person was working at the time, there can sometimes be a claim for the lost wages, and also in some cases for funeral and other related expenses.
If you or a loved one have been injured or killed in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, consult an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney as soon as possible. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Multiple Fatalities in Church Bus Collision, including Atlanta Truck Driver, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published October 2, 2013
Incredibly Tragic Accident in Douglasville on I-20 Involving Several Children, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published September 26, 2013
The accident happened when a church bus reportedly crossed over the median of the interstate and collided with two other vehicles, a tractor trailer and an SUV, travelling in the opposite direction. Police officers said in a statement that the bus crossed over the median after its front left tire exploded. The bus became overturned, and the tractor trailer caught fire.
A Highway Patrol spokesperson reported that eight people had died in the crash, two of whom were on the bus, one was in the tractor-trailer (presumably the driver), and one in the SUV. Of the fourteen individua
ls injured, twelve were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Eight of the victims were in critical condition, two were in serious condition, and four were in stable condition. The bus was reportedly transporting a group of senior citizens, who were returning from a church-sponsored Jubilee event.
Prior to the collision, the SUV was carrying three individuals, the tractor trailer one, and the bus had eighteen. Authorities stated that they will continue to investigate into the collision, and will examine specifically the qualifications of the bus driver, and inspections regarding the condition of the bus.
This accident, although incredibly tragic, provides the rare potential opportunity to discuss when collisions are truly accidents. The actual determination of cause and fault are yet to be determined, and will be arrived at based upon the objective analysis of the evidence left behind. With that caveat in place, we can hypothetically examine various alternatives that may have transpired here.
Though not typically the case, there is the potential that this was truly an accident. In most cases, accidents are caused because one driver was at fault in some way or another. Here, however, police reported that the reason the bus crossed the median line was because the tire exploded. If the bus driver and the company chartering the bus kept it in good condition, and inspected regularly to determine the state of the tires, and the tire inexplicably exploded, then it may truly have been an accident, although incredibly tragic. Additionally, if the tire popped due to a nail in the road, then it would also qualify as a true accident, unless an unrelated third party is blameworthy for negligently leaving debris in the roadway.
Alternatively, and more likely in a majority of real collisions, there was some sort of negligence, perhaps in the maintenance of the bus, that lead to the tire exploding during traveling. Examples of potential negligence include putting off regular maintenance, ignoring recommended mileage limitations, etc. Essentially, a failure of reasonable care and maintenance of the bus could potentially amount to the necessary level of culpability required in order to successfully prove liability in a negligence lawsuit.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed, in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney as soon as possible. Timing is particularly important when you are involved in an accident as complex as this one, since evidence will need to be gathered regarding various vehicles. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation, and find out how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Incredibly Tragic Accident in Douglasville on I-20 Involving Several Children, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published September 26, 2013
Police Continue Investigation Into Fatal SW Atlanta Car Accident, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published September 20, 2013
Cobb County police have arrested a Florida woman for her role in an early morning fatal crash. The crash happened earlier this month on I-75 south, just south of the Hickory Grove Road overpass.
Police said the Florida woman failed to stay in her lane, which resulted in her sideswiping a truck, causing it to veer off of the road and then overturn. The driver of the truck was transported by helicopter to a local hospital in critical condition. Sadly, the man’s wife, a passenger in the vehicle, died at the scene.
The Florida woman was reportedly arrested at the scene and taken to the local detention center, where she was charged with second degree vehicular homicide and failure to maintain lane.
The charges in this case stem from the driver’s reported failure to stay within her own lane, which led to her collision with the victims’ vehicle.
Georgia law reads:
Any person who causes the death of another person, without an intention to do so, by violating any provision of this title […] (i.e. traffic laws), commits the offense of homicide by vehicle in the second degree when such violation is the cause of said death…
Punishment for second degree vehicular homicide probably carries a lighter penalty than many Georgians might think. As a misdemeanor offense, it is punishable by imprisonment or other confinement for up to one year, a fine of up to $1,000.00, or both. It seems like a slap on the wrist when compared with the human life lost as result of the negligent driving.
However, the vehicular homicide charges, and potential conviction, relate only to the criminal nature of the driver’s conduct. If you have been hurt, or a loved one has been killed as a result of another individual’s negligent driving, you likely have a separate civil claim for either personal injury or wrongful death, as the circumstances of your car accident indicate. While a criminal prosecution is intended to punish a wrongdoer, a civil lawsuit’s purpose is to compensate the victim or the victim’s family for their losses.
By successfully proving that the other driver was both negligent, and therefore proximately caused your injuries or loss, you could potentially recover compensation for things such as hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages at work, or lost wages from the deceased individual, loss of companionship, and in some cases funeral expenses. Your Atlanta car accident attorney can fully advise you regarding what a potential recovery might include.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed, in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney as soon as possible. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
12 Year Old Boy Hurt in Southwest Atlanta Pedestrian Accident, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published September 6, 2013
Incredibly Tragic Accident Kills 16 Year Old Pedestrian, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 27, 2013
While the exact circumstances surrounding the accident have not been reported, apparently the boy ran into the street, and while the driver swerved to avoid hitting him, the car still collided with the boy. He was subsequently transported to a local children’s hospital in critical condition.
According to police, when they arrived at the scene the boy was still breathing but not alert, and he suffered serious head injuries.
Police also reported that the driver was not at fault, and that she will not face charges.
While it appears as though the driver was not at fault in this case based upon police reports, this is not true in many cases where pedestrians are seriously injured.
Oftentimes, drivers, particularly in residential areas, may be responsible for causing accidents when they engage in negligent or reckless driving. Negligent driving occurs when an individual operates their vehicle in a manner that is not in accordance with how a reasonably prudent (or safe) driver would. Typical examples of failing to meet this minimum standard include things such as the following:
- Speeding
- Failure to yield
- Handheld cellphone or other device use, whether texting, talking, browsing the internet, reading emails, etc.
- Driver fatigue
- Driver Intoxication
However, pedestrians can potentially run into issues with Georgia’s comparative negligence law. This law states that if your own actions are found to be 50% or more responsible for causing your accident, you will be barred completely from receiving any compensation for your damages. If, however, you are found to be less than 50% liable for your accident, you can recover, but your final settlement will still take into account your relative amount of fault and deduct it from your award. For example, if you fail to look both ways before crossing the street, and you attempt to walk just as a car is approaching, you may be at least partially at fault when it comes to determining liability at trial. Your Georgia car accident attorney will be able to fully advise you regarding the nuances and potential limitations of this rule. Therefore, it is imperative that even if you believe you may have been partially to blame, you consult with an attorney in order to determine your rights, and decide on a plan of action.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed, in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience in representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. We are dedicated to treating our clients with the highest standards of quality and ethical representation. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Incredibly Tragic Accident Kills 16 Year Old Pedestrian, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 27, 2013
Old Atlanta Road Crash Ends Tragically, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 19, 2013
Authorities revealed that a 16 year old high school student was killed when he was struck by three different cars on his walk to school this week. The teen was hit as a result of having run into the street to retrieve his skateboard.
Authorities say the boy had been riding his skateboard on the way to school when it suddenly slipped out from under his feet and shot into the street. When he went into the road to get it, he was hit by three different vehicles.
The first vehicle was described by witnesses as a gray or silver Honda sedan, then a Ford Ranger, and finally a Chevy Tahoe. Police said only the driver of the Ford Ranger stopped after the accident. The driver of the Tahoe reportedly contacted police later on, and claimed that he thought he had hit a deer. Neither the driver of the Ranger or Tahoe will face charges.
According to authorities, the driver of the Honda, however, will be charged once the individual is found. Authorities believe it is unlikely that the driver of the Honda was unaware that they had hit something, and that the car likely sustained front end damage from the impact.
Georgia takes hit and run accidents incredibly seriously. State law creates an affirmative duty for drivers to stop their vehicles, and attempt to secure medical assistance for the victims that they have hit; a failure to do so carries harsh penalties:
If such accident is the proximate cause of death or a serious injury, any person knowingly failing to stop and comply with the requirements of subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than five years. O.C.G.A. 40-6-270 (2010)
Although hit and run charges are a criminal law matter, the driver who caused the accident is likely subject to a civil suit as well. The nature of liability depends on the way in which the accident was caused, focusing particularly on how the individual was driving at the time of the accident. Drivers must not operate their vehicles in a manner that creates an unreasonable risk of harming other drivers or pedestrians on the road. A failure to comply with this basic standard could provide liability under a negligence lawsuit.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed, in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney as soon as possible. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Two DeKalb Police Officers involved in Serious Car Accidents within Two Week Span, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 12, 2013
Tragic Rollover Crash on I-85 in Duluth Ends in Tragedy, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published July 29, 2013
The two-car accident occurred when the young girl’s mother was headed southbound on Old Atlanta Road near Estates of Old Atlanta subdivision when she apparently lost control while on a curve. Her car traveled into the southbound lane and struck a Honda Odyssey. The mother was pronounced dead at the scene. Another passenger, an 11 year old family friend, was taken to the hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries to her face.
The driver of the Honda Odyssey was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. A seven year old passenger in the van was transported to the hospital for treatment of a broken arm.
Investigators believe that the rainy weather conditions were a contributing factor in the crash.
Sadly, this tragedy is just one of many reported recently whereby at least one individual was killed as a result of a vehicle crossing over into oncoming traffic.
Although it was not reported in this case, in many collisions, crossing over the yellow line occurs when a driver is engaging in distracted driving.
Distracted driving occurs whenever a driver diverts his or her attention from the most important task at hand: driving itself. While the possibilities are potentially endless for what could distract a driver, the most common culprits are activities such as the following:
- Handheld cell phone use
- Personal grooming, such as applying makeup
- Interacting with passengers, whether friends, children, etc.
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the radio, music, or other device
Georgia law currently prohibits all drivers from texting while driving, and handheld cellphone use is prohibited while driving for all bus drivers and novice drivers. The legislature recently rejected a more far-reaching distracted driving law, which would have prohibited other distracted activities, such as eating, grooming, and writing while driving. According to distraction.gov, an estimated 10% of collisions in 2011 were believed to be caused as a result of distracted driving, and with the increased use of smartphones, that number is likely to increase.
The reason for the collision is relevant because it can provide a basis for liability. If the driver responsible for causing the collision was distracted, this can provide a foundation for a negligence lawsuit. Negligence claims that the driver was not driving in a manner that a reasonably prudent (safe) driver would have, and that this failure resulted in causing harm to the plaintiff (person bringing the lawsuit).
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed, in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience in representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Our firm is dedicated to treating our clients to the highest ethical standards, and treating each client with the personal attention and highest quality representation that they deserve. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Two DeKalb Police Officers involved in Serious Car Accidents within Two Week Span, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 12, 2013
Tragic Rollover Crash on I-85 in Duluth Ends in Tragedy, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published July 29, 2013
A Duluth family is mourning the loss of a mother of two who was killed in a rollover crash on Interstate 85 earlier this month.
The woman was running errands with her husband and their two young children in the family’s SUV on I-85 when the collision occurred.
Police say the accident occurred when a tractor-trailer forced the family’s SUV out of its lane and into a box truck traveling next to them. The force of the initial impact was so great that the SUV then flipped several times and travelled over the guardrail before coming to rest on the on-ramp at Steve Reynolds Boulevard.
The woman was ejected from the SUV, and later died as a result of her injuries. The children were transported to the local children’s hospital, and were accompanied by their father.
Authorities revealed that the driver of the tractor-trailer did not stop at the scene of the accident. Luckily, however, the driver was later tracked down in Cobb County, and was interviewed by police. Police reported that the crash is still under investigation and it remains unclear what, if any, charges will be filed.
Under Georgia law, drivers are held liable for the collisions that they cause when they breach a legal duty. For example, negligent drivers are subject to liability when their reckless driving results in accidental injury. These drivers are deemed to be at fault because their failure to exercise due caution directly resulted in harm. Common examples of this sort of liability arise in situations where drivers are speeding excessively, are intoxicated, drive aggressively, fail to yield, or drive in other ways which are not in accordance with how a typical safe driver might proceed.
In this case, there seems to be evidence that the truck that initially nicked the SUV may have been at fault. While it is unclear why the initial collision occurred, fatigue is a common reason that truck drivers become involved in collisions. When truck drivers are to blame for causing accidents, the individuals whom they injure could potentially have a claim against their employer. Potentially recoverable expenses include things such as hospital or other medical bills, future lost earnings, pain, suffering, anguish, lost relationship, reasonable funeral expenses, etc. An experienced Atlanta car accident attorney can fully advise you regarding the potential recovery to which you may be entitled as a result of your collision.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident, due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Hiring our firm ensures that you will receive personal attention, excellent quality representation, and that your case will be handled in accordance with high ethical standards. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Pedestrian Believed to be Reason for 7 Car Collision on I-75 Outside Atlanta, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published July 8, 2013
Motorcycle Fatalities Are On the Rise Across the Nation, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog,published June 28, 2013
According to reports, the accident happened at around 1 in the morning Friday, and involved four vehicles. These included a Ford Escape, a pick-up truck, a Jeep, and a tractor-trailer.
Police stated that based upon their initial investigation, they believe that the cause of the accident may have been when a pick up truck turned left into the path of a tractor-trailer heading northbound. Sadly, the driver and passenger of the pick up were killed, and another individual died as a result of the chain reaction accidents.
The northbound lanes of Highway 365 near the accident site remained closed to traffic for almost nine hours. The main task in clearing the roadway was righting the overturned tractor-trailer, which entailed unloading part of its frozen chicken product cargo.
The area where the crash occurred is apparently a busy intersection, with several residents reporting that a traffic signal was installed recently.
While the reported facts are limited in this case, it seems that the cause of the accident, and the resulting chain reaction accidents, was the pick up turning left without sufficient time for it to make the turn, or for the tractor-trailer to stop. Large trucks cause extensive damage due to their immense size and inability to stop in the case of sudden changes in the roadway, such as in this case.
A common type of lawsuit in car accidents, such as this one, is brought under a theory of negligence. By definition, this means that the plaintiff (person bringing the suit) must show that the person who caused the accident was driving his or her car in a way that was not in accordance with what a reasonably prudent person would do. Common examples of driving in this manner include when drivers speed excessively, drive aggressively, engage in distracted driving, fail to observe relevant traffic laws or right of way, etc. A successful claim also requires a showing that it was this negligent behavior which actually caused the accident, and subsequent injury or other damages to occur.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident, due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert has extensive experience in representing victims of car accidents and their families. He boasts more than 20 years of experience as a personal injury attorney in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Hiring our firm ensures that you will receive personal attention, excellent quality representation, and that your case will be handled in accordance with high ethical standards. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Pedestrian Believed to be Reason for 7 Car Collision on I-75 Outside Atlanta, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published July 8, 2013
Motorcycle Fatalities Are On the Rise Across the Nation, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 28, 2013
A spokesperson for the Clayton County Police department released a statement to one newspaper, regarding the cause of the seven car collision. Authorities believe that the initial cause of the crash was a pedestrian walking onto Interstate 75. The pedestrian was reportedly taken for treatment to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
At around 3 in the morning following the Fourth of July holiday, the first car accident occurred when a car struck the pedestrian, leading to a chain reaction that ended up involving a total of seven vehicles. According to police, six of the drivers in the accident have since been charged with drunk driving. Five of those drivers were reportedly taken to jail, and the sixth was taken to the hospital for treatment. The pedestrian was subsequently charged with pedestrian in the road way.
The accident continues to be under investigation. It remains unknown why the pedestrian was in the roadway.
This accident is illustrative of two distinct principles. First, the pedestrian’s unlawful presence on the highway is an example of a potentially actionable negligence claim. The fact that it is unlawful to be in the roadway is effectively evidence of its dangerousness, for precisely the damages it allegedly caused. Therefore, the drivers involved in the collision could potentially bring a claim against that individual.
Secondarily, it is incredibly curious that six of the seven drivers were all charged with drunk driving. It begs the question of whether the drivers would have avoided the collision had they not been driving under the influence. Additionally, had the accident not occurred, would they have been involved in distinct collisions? Aside from those hypotheticals, clearly operating a motor vehicle under the influence is not only incredibly dangerous, but is also unlawful. Individuals who are involved in an accident with drivers under the influence have the very strong potential for a successful negligence claim. A successful case could mean recovery not only for damage to the car, but also for any resulting medical treatment, injuries, and lost wages at work. An experienced Atlanta car accident attorney can fully inform you regarding your rights following a car collision, and can recommend how best to proceed.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident, due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Hiring our firm ensures that you will receive personal attention, excellent quality representation, and that your case will be handled in accordance with high ethical standards. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
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Fleeing Suspect Totals a Half Dozen Cars in Northwest Atlanta, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 28, 2013
Street Racing Mother Causes Tragic and Secondary Accident in Conyers, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 24, 2013
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A spokesperson for the Clayton County Police department released a statement to one newspaper, regarding the cause of the seven car collision. Authorities believe that the initial cause of the crash was a pedestrian walking onto Interstate 75. The pedestrian was reportedly taken for treatment to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
At around 3 in the morning following the Fourth of July holiday, the first car accident occurred when a car struck the pedestrian, leading to a chain reaction that ended up involving a total of seven vehicles. According to police, six of the drivers in the accident have since been charged with drunk driving. Five of those drivers were reportedly taken to jail, and the sixth was taken to the hospital for treatment. The pedestrian was subsequently charged with pedestrian in the road way.
The accident continues to be under investigation. It remains unknown why the pedestrian was in the roadway.
This accident is illustrative of two distinct principles. First, the pedestrian’s unlawful presence on the highway is an example of a potentially actionable negligence claim. The fact that it is unlawful to be in the roadway is effectively evidence of its dangerousness, for precisely the damages it allegedly caused. Therefore, the drivers involved in the collision could potentially bring a claim against that individual.
Secondarily, it is incredibly curious that six of the seven drivers were all charged with drunk driving. It begs the question of whether the drivers would have avoided the collision had they not been driving under the influence. Additionally, had the accident not occurred, would they have been involved in distinct collisions? Aside from those hypotheticals, clearly operating a motor vehicle under the influence is not only incredibly dangerous, but is also unlawful. Individuals who are involved in an accident with drivers under the influence have the very strong potential for a successful negligence claim. A successful case could mean recovery not only for damage to the car, but also for any resulting medical treatment, injuries, and lost wages at work. An experienced Atlanta car accident attorney can fully inform you regarding your rights following a car collision, and can recommend how best to proceed.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident, due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Hiring our firm ensures that you will receive personal attention, excellent quality representation, and that your case will be handled in accordance with high ethical standards. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Fleeing Suspect Totals a Half Dozen Cars in Northwest Atlanta, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 28, 2013
Street Racing Mother Causes Tragic and Secondary Accident in Conyers, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 24, 2013
Sometime around two o’clock in the morning, police officers attempted to stop a motorist who was driving without headlights, but instead of acquiescing, the driver reportedly decided to flee. While officers initially gave chase, they soon called it off due to the incredibly high speeds the suspect was driving, just before he slammed into at least six parked cars, and then crashed into a house. The man attempted to continue to run on foot, but he was caught a few blocks away, and subsequently taken to a local hospital for the treatment of his injuries.
The man was charged with several different crimes, and according to authorities has somewhat of an extensive criminal history. It seems as though the car that the man was driving may have been stolen.
This type of car accident is clearly out of the ordinary in comparison with the typical sorts of auto collisions which cause damage. However, the liability of the driver who caused the damage is no different. Car accident lawsuits are typically filed on the basis of negligence. In other words, proving that an individual was negligent means demonstrating both that they acted in a way which was not in accordance with what the reasonably prudent driver would do, and also that this failure to act reasonably was the direct cause of the harm.
Here, the man’s actions may not only be considered negligent, in failing to observe traffic laws (speeding), failing to obey law enforcement officials (fleeing), and potential other actions, but they may even be considered reckless.
However, because the man was also involved in the commission of a crime, if not several, there may be potential issues related to recovery from insurance carriers. Many auto insurance policies will not cover accidents incurred by the holder of the policy if sustained while committing a crime. This means that if we assume that the man has a separate car insurance policy at all, it would potentially cover the damage caused, but may be held inapplicable due to the nature of the accident.
While the individual cars that were crashed into may be subject to coverage under their owners’s policies, just because the individual who caused the damage does not have insurance does not mean that he is not financially responsible. If you have been involved in a similar sort of auto accident, consult with an attorney in order to discuss you other potential means of holding those individuals who caused you harm responsible.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident, due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Hiring our firm ensures that you will receive personal attention, excellent quality representation, and your case will be handled in accordance with the high ethical standards. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Street Racing Mother Causes Tragic and Secondary Accident in Conyers, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 24,103
Former NBA Player involved in Tragic Car Accident in Suburban Atlanta, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 13, 2013
The post Fleeing Suspect Totals a Half Dozen Cars in Northwest Atlanta first appeared on SEONewsWire.net.]]>
Sometime around two o’clock in the morning, police officers attempted to stop a motorist who was driving without headlights, but instead of acquiescing, the driver reportedly decided to flee. While officers initially gave chase, they soon called it off due to the incredibly high speeds the suspect was driving, just before he slammed into at least six parked cars, and then crashed into a house. The man attempted to continue to run on foot, but he was caught a few blocks away, and subsequently taken to a local hospital for the treatment of his injuries.
The man was charged with several different crimes, and according to authorities has somewhat of an extensive criminal history. It seems as though the car that the man was driving may have been stolen.
This type of car accident is clearly out of the ordinary in comparison with the typical sorts of auto collisions which cause damage. However, the liability of the driver who caused the damage is no different. Car accident lawsuits are typically filed on the basis of negligence. In other words, proving that an individual was negligent means demonstrating both that they acted in a way which was not in accordance with what the reasonably prudent driver would do, and also that this failure to act reasonably was the direct cause of the harm.
Here, the man’s actions may not only be considered negligent, in failing to observe traffic laws (speeding), failing to obey law enforcement officials (fleeing), and potential other actions, but they may even be considered reckless.
However, because the man was also involved in the commission of a crime, if not several, there may be potential issues related to recovery from insurance carriers. Many auto insurance policies will not cover accidents incurred by the holder of the policy if sustained while committing a crime. This means that if we assume that the man has a separate car insurance policy at all, it would potentially cover the damage caused, but may be held inapplicable due to the nature of the accident.
While the individual cars that were crashed into may be subject to coverage under their owners’s policies, just because the individual who caused the damage does not have insurance does not mean that he is not financially responsible. If you have been involved in a similar sort of auto accident, consult with an attorney in order to discuss you other potential means of holding those individuals who caused you harm responsible.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident, due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert is a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Hiring our firm ensures that you will receive personal attention, excellent quality representation, and your case will be handled in accordance with the high ethical standards. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Street Racing Mother Causes Tragic and Secondary Accident in Conyers, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 24,103
Former NBA Player involved in Tragic Car Accident in Suburban Atlanta, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 13, 2013
According to various reports, the woman was racing her Honda Accord, when she suddenly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to hit a guardrail, and then reverted back into oncoming traffic. The car was then hit by an oncoming pickup truck. Both of the passengers in the Honda were killed, and the woman was taken to the hospital for non-life threatening injuries.
Additionally, the accident led to a secondary collision, when another driver was attempting to slow to avoid the accident, and was hit from behind by another vehicle.
Unfortunately, due to the circumstances involved in this case, it is demonstrative of several different principles in Personal Injury Law and most notably probable negligence claims.
Taking the issues raised in this case and isolating them as facts in a hypothetical case, we have the driver’s decision to engage in a road race. Deciding to engage in this behavior is potentially negligent because it is considered to depart from the way in which a reasonably prudent (safe) driver would drive. In addition to the risk to those in the car, there is also the potential risk to any other drivers or pedestrians on the roadway. Secondly, in terms of the causation element of negligence — as you must prove that the negligent behavior led to the accident — the racing allegedly caused the car to enter traffic, which then led to the collision with the pickup, killing the two passengers. These elements, if true, provide a potential basis for a negligence or wrongful death claim.
As to the second accident, the driver may have a case against the driver of the Honda. However, this is a fact sensitive matter, because if the driver who crashed into this second driver was engaging in negligence, they would likely be responsible for the damages caused.
Individuals harmed in auto accidents due to another driver’s negligence could potentially pursue a personal injury lawsuit under a negligence or wrongful death cause of action. In either type of case, potentially recoverable damages include things like pain and suffering, hospital bills, lost wages, loss of companionship, funeral expenses and, in some cases, punitive damages.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident, due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. By hiring our law firm, you can count on personal attention, excellent quality representation, and high ethical standards. Stephen Ozcomert is an experienced personal injury attorney, with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Former NBA Player involved in Tragic Car Accident in Suburban Atlanta, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 13, 2013
Tow Truck Slams into Car in Tragic Accident on Atlanta’s Westside, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 5, 2013
The post Street Racing Mother Causes Tragic and Secondary Accident in Conyers first appeared on SEONewsWire.net.]]>
According to various reports, the woman was racing her Honda Accord, when she suddenly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to hit a guardrail, and then reverted back into oncoming traffic. The car was then hit by an oncoming pickup truck. Both of the passengers in the Honda were killed, and the woman was taken to the hospital for non-life threatening injuries.
Additionally, the accident led to a secondary collision, when another driver was attempting to slow to avoid the accident, and was hit from behind by another vehicle.
Unfortunately, due to the circumstances involved in this case, it is demonstrative of several different principles in Personal Injury Law and most notably probable negligence claims.
Taking the issues raised in this case and isolating them as facts in a hypothetical case, we have the driver’s decision to engage in a road race. Deciding to engage in this behavior is potentially negligent because it is considered to depart from the way in which a reasonably prudent (safe) driver would drive. In addition to the risk to those in the car, there is also the potential risk to any other drivers or pedestrians on the roadway. Secondly, in terms of the causation element of negligence — as you must prove that the negligent behavior led to the accident — the racing allegedly caused the car to enter traffic, which then led to the collision with the pickup, killing the two passengers. These elements, if true, provide a potential basis for a negligence or wrongful death claim.
As to the second accident, the driver may have a case against the driver of the Honda. However, this is a fact sensitive matter, because if the driver who crashed into this second driver was engaging in negligence, they would likely be responsible for the damages caused.
Individuals harmed in auto accidents due to another driver’s negligence could potentially pursue a personal injury lawsuit under a negligence or wrongful death cause of action. In either type of case, potentially recoverable damages include things like pain and suffering, hospital bills, lost wages, loss of companionship, funeral expenses and, in some cases, punitive damages.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident, due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. By hiring our law firm, you can count on personal attention, excellent quality representation, and high ethical standards. Stephen Ozcomert is an experienced personal injury attorney, with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Contact us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can reach us by calling (404)-370-1000 or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Former NBA Player involved in Tragic Car Accident in Suburban Atlanta, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 13, 2013
Tow Truck Slams into Car in Tragic Accident on Atlanta’s Westside, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 5, 2013
Late last month, former NBA player, Mookie Blaylock, was involved in a serious accident in Clayton County, which left him in critical condition, according to police. Authorities reported that he had currently been undergoing treatment for a seizure related condition, but it is not clear whether that played a role in the collision.
Blaylock was reportedly driving northbound in an SUV on Tara Boulevard in Jonesboro, when he crossed the median line and crashed head on into a van carrying two individuals.
According to authorities, a woman in the van died following the injuries she sustained during the crash. The other passenger, a man, suffered a broken ankle and was later released from this hospital. Blaylock was initially airlifted to a hospital, and was put on life support, until being upgraded to critical condition, then serious, and later fair condition prior to his release.
Subsequent reports stated that Blaylock has since been jailed for his role in the accident. He was reportedly charged with vehiclar manslaughter. He had allegedly previously been charged with driving with a suspended license, and failure to stay in his lane.
Blaylock reportedly voluntarily surrendered Monday, and is being held without bond.
Blaylock’s attorney said in a statement that the former NBA player had blacked out before the crash. Authorities are continuing their investigation in order to determine the cause of the crash, and have stated that they do not believe that alcohol was a factor.
The information regarding the criminal charges in this case remain unclear. However, if an individual who has a disorder that causes them to black out at unpredictable times, such as when driving, then does black out while driving, leading to the harm of another, this can potentially create not only criminal liability, but also civil. Driving in a dangerous manner, whether due to an underlying condition, or for other reasons, such as failure to observe the speed limit, are behaviors that could potentially be considered negligent, and thus may give rise to a personal injury lawsuit.
Individuals hurt or killed in car accidents due to another driver’s negligence could potentially pursue a personal injury lawsuit under a negligence or wrongful death cause of action. In either case, recoverable damages include things like pain and suffering, hospital bills, lost wages, loss of companionship, funeral expenses and, in some cases, punitive damages.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert is an experienced personal injury attorney, with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. By hiring our law firm, you can count on personal attention, excellent quality representation, and high ethical standards. Call us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can contact us through our website or by calling (404)-370-1000.
More Blog Posts:
Tow Truck Slams into Car in Tragic Accident on Atlanta’s Westside, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 5, 2013
Unarmed Man Shot and Tasered To Death by Police Results in Wrongful Death Lawsuit, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published February 27, 2013
The post Former NBA Player involved in Tragic Car Accident in Suburban Atlanta first appeared on SEONewsWire.net.]]>Late last month, former NBA player, Mookie Blaylock, was involved in a serious accident in Clayton County, which left him in critical condition, according to police. Authorities reported that he had currently been undergoing treatment for a seizure related condition, but it is not clear whether that played a role in the collision.
Blaylock was reportedly driving northbound in an SUV on Tara Boulevard in Jonesboro, when he crossed the median line and crashed head on into a van carrying two individuals.
According to authorities, a woman in the van died following the injuries she sustained during the crash. The other passenger, a man, suffered a broken ankle and was later released from this hospital. Blaylock was initially airlifted to a hospital, and was put on life support, until being upgraded to critical condition, then serious, and later fair condition prior to his release.
Subsequent reports stated that Blaylock has since been jailed for his role in the accident. He was reportedly charged with vehiclar manslaughter. He had allegedly previously been charged with driving with a suspended license, and failure to stay in his lane.
Blaylock reportedly voluntarily surrendered Monday, and is being held without bond.
Blaylock’s attorney said in a statement that the former NBA player had blacked out before the crash. Authorities are continuing their investigation in order to determine the cause of the crash, and have stated that they do not believe that alcohol was a factor.
The information regarding the criminal charges in this case remain unclear. However, if an individual who has a disorder that causes them to black out at unpredictable times, such as when driving, then does black out while driving, leading to the harm of another, this can potentially create not only criminal liability, but also civil. Driving in a dangerous manner, whether due to an underlying condition, or for other reasons, such as failure to observe the speed limit, are behaviors that could potentially be considered negligent, and thus may give rise to a personal injury lawsuit.
Individuals hurt or killed in car accidents due to another driver’s negligence could potentially pursue a personal injury lawsuit under a negligence or wrongful death cause of action. In either case, recoverable damages include things like pain and suffering, hospital bills, lost wages, loss of companionship, funeral expenses and, in some cases, punitive damages.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, you should consult with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney immediately. Stephen Ozcomert is an experienced personal injury attorney, with over 20 years of experience, and is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. By hiring our law firm, you can count on personal attention, excellent quality representation, and high ethical standards. Call us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can contact us through our website or by calling (404)-370-1000.
More Blog Posts:
Tow Truck Slams into Car in Tragic Accident on Atlanta’s Westside, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 5, 2013
Unarmed Man Shot and Tasered To Death by Police Results in Wrongful Death Lawsuit, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published February 27, 2013
Initial reports indicated that the accident occurred at the intersection of Northside Drive and Marietta Street, when a tow truck 
collided with a sedan, killing its front passenger. Later reports indicated that the driver of the sedan and three minor children were also injured in the crash, though detailed information regarding their condition was not available. The driver of the tow truck was not injured.
Video footage was taken of the scene following the accident, which showed the tow truck had apparently pinned the car against a utility pole.
While the cause of this particular crash remains unknown, it appears as though it may have been the result of one of the drivers running a red light, or failing to yield to some other traffic signal. Statistically speaking, most accidents occur in or near intersections due to these sorts of driving errors.
If you are involved in a car accident, after reporting the collision to police and seeking appropriate medical treatment, you’ll want to contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Car insurance companies have an incentive to settle claims as quickly as possible and for the lowest cost. Many injuries may not present themselves within this shortened time period, or may require additional treatment, and therefore additional expense, over the months or years to come. An experienced attorney can advise you regarding what sorts of claims you may have, and what recovery would be in your best interests.
In order to be successful in a car accident claim, the plaintiff, or party bringing the lawsuit, will have to prove that the other driver was negligent in causing the accident, which led to their injuries. Negligence is legally defined as a failure to act in the same manner as a reasonably prudent person in the same situation. In driving, this means a failure of some sort to do things that another reasonable driver would do. The most common examples of this would be excessive speeding, failure to obey traffic signals, failure to yield to other drivers, engaging in aggressive driving, and the like.
A successful negligence claim will ensure that you recover financial compensation for the damages you have suffered as a result of the accident. Potentially recoverable claims include things like hospital bills, damages for pain and suffering, physical therapy bills, lost wages, disability pay, and in some cases funeral expenses or an award for wrongful death.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, hire an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney. Stephen Ozcomert is an experienced personal injury attorney, with over 20 years of experience, who is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. By hiring our law firm, you can count on personal attention, excellent quality representation, and high ethical standards. Call us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can contact us through our website or by calling (404)-370-1000.
More Blog Posts:
Each year, at least half a million people are involved in big rig accidents, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Police chase results in dead driver, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Initial reports indicated that the accident occurred at the intersection of Northside Drive and Marietta Street, when a tow truck collided with a sedan, killing its front passenger. Later reports indicated that the driver of the sedan and three minor children were also injured in the crash, though detailed information regarding their condition was not available. The driver of the tow truck was not injured.
Video footage was taken of the scene following the accident, which showed the tow truck had apparently pinned the car against a utility pole.
While the cause of this particular crash remains unknown, it appears as though it may have been the result of one of the drivers running a red light, or failing to yield to some other traffic signal. Statistically speaking, most accidents occur in or near intersections due to these sorts of driving errors.
If you are involved in a car accident, after reporting the collision to police and seeking appropriate medical treatment, you’ll want to contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Car insurance companies have an incentive to settle claims as quickly as possible and for the lowest cost. Many injuries may not present themselves within this shortened time period, or may require additional treatment, and therefore additional expense, over the months or years to come. An experienced attorney can advise you regarding what sorts of claims you may have, and what recovery would be in your best interests.
In order to be successful in a car accident claim, the plaintiff, or party bringing the lawsuit, will have to prove that the other driver was negligent in causing the accident, which led to their injuries. Negligence is legally defined as a failure to act in the same manner as a reasonably prudent person in the same situation. In driving, this means a failure of some sort to do things that another reasonable driver would do. The most common examples of this would be excessive speeding, failure to obey traffic signals, failure to yield to other drivers, engaging in aggressive driving, and the like.
A successful negligence claim will ensure that you recover financial compensation for the damages you have suffered as a result of the accident. Potentially recoverable claims include things like hospital bills, damages for pain and suffering, physical therapy bills, lost wages, disability pay, and in some cases funeral expenses or an award for wrongful death.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed in a car accident due to another individual’s negligent driving, hire an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney. Stephen Ozcomert is an experienced personal injury attorney, with over 20 years of experience, who is skilled at representing individuals and their families who have been injured as a result of the negligent or reckless driving of others in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. By hiring our law firm, you can count on personal attention, excellent quality representation, and high ethical standards. Call us today in order to schedule your free initial consultation. You can contact us through our website or by calling (404)-370-1000.
More Blog Posts:
Each year, at least half a million people are involved in big rig accidents, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Police chase results in dead driver, Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
