How to Protect Your Rights When an Atlanta Truck Accident Involves an Out-of-State Carrier

Atlanta’s highways are packed with trucks crossing state lines. I-75, I-20, and I-285 are major corridors for interstate freight traffic, and when an accident happens, it’s not unusual for the truck to be operated by a company based in another state. That creates extra complications for anyone injured in the crash.

Dealing with a local insurance company is one thing. Going up against a large out-of-state carrier is something else entirely. Trucking companies typically have legal teams working to shift blame or delay claims. That’s why it’s critical to know your rights and how to protect them after a wreck with an interstate trucking company. As experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyers, our office is here to help guide you through the process.

Why Out-of-State Truck Accidents in Atlanta Are More Complicated

Georgia is a central hub for regional and national freight. Many trucks traveling through the Atlanta area are registered in other states but do business here every day. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) warns that any carrier operating across state lines must follow federal trucking regulations and state-specific rules wherever they operate, which includes Georgia law.

If you’re injured in an Atlanta truck accident involving an out-of-state carrier, here’s why your case may be more complex:

• Jurisdiction issues between states;
• Differences in insurance coverage and state laws;
• Involvement of multiple corporate entities (carrier, broker, dispatcher);
• Delays in obtaining driver logs, maintenance records, or black box data;
• Out-of-state witnesses and service of legal documents.

Under Georgia’s long-arm statute, injured victims can file claims against out-of-state companies. You can hold any business or person liable for the harm they cause, even if they’re based elsewhere.

What You Can Do to Strengthen An Atlanta Truck Accident Claim Involving An Out-of-State Carrier

Out-of-state trucking companies have their own legal teams and insurance adjusters whose job is to reduce their liability. To protect your rights to compensation in an Atlanta truck accident claim involving an out-of-state carrier, follow these tips:

• Call 9-1-1, provide basic info to the police, and request a copy of the accident report.
• Get contact information for everyone at the scene.
• Photograph damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any injuries.
• Get medical treatment and follow doctor instructions.
• Don’t give recorded statements to the trucking company or their insurer.
• Get help from an experienced legal professional who knows how to handle interstate trucking claims

Don’t Let an Out-of-State Carrier Escape Accountability

When Atlanta truck accidents happen, trying to fight a company from another state while recovering from injuries makes a difficult situation even worse. Getting the best Atlanta truck accident lawyer on your side helps hold carriers accountable and get the compensation you need to recover.

If you get hurt in a crash involving an out-of-state trucking company, get the experienced, professional legal representation you need. We serve clients in Savannah, St. Simons Island, Alpharetta, Decatur, and all of DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett Counties. Reach out and call or contact Shiver Hamilton Campbell online to request a consultation today.

Sources:

legis.ga.gov/api/document/docs/default-source/house-budget-and-research-office-document-library/newsandhighlights/2021/2021_policy_brief_long_arm_statute.pdf?sfvrsn=64b35246_2

fmcsa.dot.gov/taxonomy/term/13551