TL;DR:

If you’re hit by a delivery truck, seek medical attention immediately and call the police to file a report. Gather evidence such as photos, witness statements, and the driver’s insurance details. Identify the liable party whether it’s the driver, the delivery company, or a third party. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without legal guidance, and consult a truck accident attorney to ensure you receive full compensation for your damages.

Key Highlights:

• Step 1: Seek Medical Attention – Your health comes first. Get checked for injuries immediately.
• Step 2: Call the Police – A police report helps document the accident and determine liability.
• Step 3: Collect Evidence – Take photos, gather witness information, and obtain insurance details.
• Step 4: Determine Liability – The driver’s employer, such as Amazon, UPS, or FedEx, may be responsible.
• Step 5: Avoid Speaking to Insurers – Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. Consult an attorney first.
• Step 6: Consult a Truck Accident Lawyer – Legal guidance ensures you get the compensation you deserve.

With the rise of online shopping, delivery trucks are a common sight on Georgia’s roads. Companies like Amazon, UPS, and FedEx operate thousands of vehicles daily, increasing the risk of accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), large trucks were involved in over 150,000 crashes nationwide in 2022, many of which included delivery vehicles.

In Georgia, state laws protect victims of truck accidents. O.C.G.A. § 51-1-6 allows injured parties to seek damages if another party’s negligence caused their injuries. Additionally, O.C.G.A. § 40-6-273 mandates reporting accidents involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Understanding your legal options and taking the right steps immediately can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

Steps to Take After Being Hit by a Delivery Truck

Step 1: Ensure Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Move to a safe location if possible to avoid further danger. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if you don’t feel hurt, get checked by a doctor—some injuries appear hours or days later. Follow all medical advice and keep records of your treatment. O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270 requires drivers involved in an accident to stop and provide aid.

Step 2: Call the Police and File an Accident Report

In Georgia, O.C.G.A. § 40-6-273 requires reporting accidents that result in injury, death, or significant vehicle damage. The police report will document the accident and may indicate fault. Request a copy of the accident report for your records.

Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene

Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries. Get the delivery truck’s license plate number, company name, and DOT number. Collect contact information from the truck driver and any witnesses at the scene of the accident. Note road conditions, weather, and traffic signals at the time of the crash. O.C.G.A. § 24-4-4 states that evidence must prove negligence by a preponderance of the evidence.

Step 4: Identify the Liable Party

Delivery truck accidents often involve multiple parties, such as the driver, the trucking company, third-party logistics providers, or even the truck’s manufacturer in cases of mechanical failure. Determining liability is complex, and an attorney can help navigate the legal aspects. O.C.G.A. § 51-2-2 holds employers liable for their employees’ negligence under the doctrine of respondeat superior.

Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurer but avoid giving a recorded statement until speaking with a lawyer. If the truck driver was at fault, their employer’s insurance may be responsible for damages. Georgia follows a fault-based system, meaning the at-fault party’s insurer should cover losses. O.C.G.A. § 33-6-34 prohibits insurance companies from acting in bad faith when handling claims.

Step 6: Document Your Losses

Keep all medical bills, prescription costs, and rehabilitation expenses. Track lost wages if you had to miss work due to injuries. Maintain a journal detailing pain levels, emotional distress, and how the accident affects your daily life. O.C.G.A. § 51-12-2 allows compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.

Step 7: Consult an Attorney Before Accepting a Settlement

Delivery companies have legal teams working to minimize payouts. Insurance companies often offer low settlements that don’t fully cover medical costs and lost wages. A truck accident lawyer can negotiate a fair settlement and file a truck accident lawsuit if settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company. O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33 sets a two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits in Georgia.

Compensation Available After a Delivery Truck Accident

You may be eligible to recover:

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, hospital bills, surgery, therapy, and future treatments.
• Lost wages and future earnings: Compensation for missed work and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
• Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle.
• Punitive damages: If the truck driver was reckless (e.g., driving under the influence or excessive speeding). O.C.G.A. § 51-12-5.1 allows punitive damages in cases of egregious misconduct.

How Our Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Being hit by a delivery truck can leave you facing legal and financial challenges. Our experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyers can:

• Investigate the accident to determine liability.
• Gather strong evidence to support your claim.
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies.
• Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Contact us for a free evaluation to discuss your case today.

Conclusion

A collision with a delivery truck can cause serious injuries, financial strain, and legal complications. Taking the right steps after the accident is crucial to securing the compensation you need.

• Prioritize your safety and seek medical attention.
• Collect evidence and document all losses.
• Understand your legal rights and liability factors.
• Consult an attorney before negotiating with insurance companies.

If you’re struggling with medical bills, lost wages, or insurance disputes, our Atlanta truck accident lawyers can help. Contact us for a free evaluation today.