The first several minutes of a rainstorm can be especially dangerous for trucks due to an increased risk of hydroplaning, caused by the slick conditions that the mixture of rain and oil on the pavement can create. A hydroplaning truck accident can cause severe damage and possibly life-altering injuries to its victims. Injuries may require extensive physical therapy, adaptive equipment, and continuous medical attention. Our Atlanta hydroplaning truck accident attorney can help you secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life. We offer free case evaluations, call (404) 259-7635 to speak to a talented Atlanta tractor-trailer accident lawyer.
Why Our Firm is the Right Choice
Our Atlanta truck accident attorneys have more than 30 years of experience successfully dealing with insurance companies and obtaining compensation for our clients injured in truck accidents.
If we are unsuccessful in your case, you will not owe us any legal fees.
We value being accessible and maintaining continuous communication with our clients.
What is Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning occurs when the water pressure in front of a vehicle’s tires pushes the water underneath the tires, causing them to “float.” This means that a truck temporarily loses traction with the road. The quality of and the depth of tire tread plays a pivotal role in the occurrence of hydroplaning accidents, as they are meant to “push” water away from the tire. There are a number of other factors that can increase the risk of a truck hydroplaning, including:
Sharp turns
Weight of the truck
Improper tire pressure
Excessive speeding
Depth of the water on the roadway
Oftentimes, truck accidents due to hydroplaning can be prevented when the trucker is driving cautiously and adjusts to the conditions by slowing down and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles on the road.
Liability in a Hydroplaning Truck Accident
The following parties may be liable for the devastating injuries and significant vehicle damage that can result from a hydroplaning truck accident:
Negligent Driver
If the trucker was engaging in negligent driving, such as speeding, they may be liable for any semi–truck accident-related expenses. In cases where both you and the truck driver are at-fault, Georgia’s contributory negligence law will come into play, which will reduce your financial recovery by your assigned percentage of fault.
Trucking Company
The company that owns the truck that hydroplaned may be liable if they failed to perform regular maintenance and inspections.
Municipal or State Government
Government entities may be held liable for an excess buildup of water on the road due to improper maintenance, construction, or a design flaw, increasing the risk of hydroplaning.
Tire Manufacturer
If the truck’s tires contribute to the accident due to a defect or being poorly manufactured, the tire manufacturer may be liable.
Types of Damages
If your case is eligible for compensation, you may be able to collect the following damages:
Medical expenses: including emergency room care, hospital stays, follow-up care, and any anticipated future expenses related to your injuries.
Lost wages: including present and future time off work necessary for recovering and any possible reduction in your future earning potential.
Pain and suffering: these damages cover both the physical pain and emotional trauma suffered from the accident.
Call Us Today
When you need honest representation after you have been hurt, let an Atlanta hydroplaning truck accident lawyer from our firm help you. Contact us today and schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
