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No one expects to get hit by a FedEx truck, but it happens. The aftermath can be overwhelming and confusing, including the legal implications. The steps you take immediately following the collision and in the days after can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for injuries and damages.
Your priority should be your health and safety. If you are able, move to a safe location away from traffic. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance for obvious injuries. If you do not require ER care, visit a physician as soon as possible, as some injuries might not manifest symptoms immediately but could become serious health concerns later.
While waiting for help to arrive, document the scene by taking photographs of all vehicles involved, the surrounding area, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and the FedEx driver, including their name, employee identification number, and contact details. Also note the truck number and any other identifying information on the vehicle. Do not admit fault or make statements about your condition that might be used against you later. Simply exchange necessary information and wait for the authorities to arrive.
FedEx truck accidents involve additional complications compared to regular automobile collisions.
Yes, but Georgia uses the modified comparative fault rule. The at-fault party’s insurer is typically responsible for paying the claimant’s damages; that is why Georgia drivers must carry liability insurance. The modified comparative negligence rule means that if you file a personal injury lawsuit, the party you are suing might try to prove you were also at fault. If the court determines that you were 50 percent or more responsible, you cannot recover any damages. If the percentage is less than that, you can still be compensated, but your damages are reduced by that amount.
Since FedEx is a large-scale operation, its insurance policies are designed for its benefit. Their drivers might be full-time employees or independent contractors; FedEx’s commercial liability insurance covers the first category. As you can imagine, being involved in a crash with one of their contractors could make negotiations more difficult.
Insurance companies representing FedEx and its contractors may contact injured parties quickly with settlement offers. These initial offers typically represent far less than what your claim might actually be worth. By accepting early offers, you waive rights to additional compensation, even if your injuries worsen or additional expenses arise. It is advisable to consult with a lawyer before discussing settlement amounts or signing any documents from insurance representatives. Our Savannah truck accident lawyers can determine appropriate compensation based on all factors in your case.
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident with a FedEx truck, the Savannah truck accident lawyers at Childers & McCain, LLC can be your best chance for fair compensation. Our team possesses deep knowledge of commercial trucking regulations and has extensive experience handling cases against large corporations like FedEx. For a free consultation, call our Macon, Georgia, office at 478-254-2007 or submit our online form. We gladly serve clients in Savannah, Albany, Atlanta, Bibb County, Chatham County, Columbus, Crawford County, Oglethorpe, and Peach County.
Facing the aftermath of a serious accident can be overwhelming. Before you speak with the insurance companies, make sure you schedule a free consultation with the Macon personal injury lawyers at Childers & McCain. We can protect your rights while anticipating the insurance company’s tactics to make sure you get the full compensation you deserve. You don’t have to navigate this tough road alone – let our team of professionals help you move forward.
