Unfortunately, auto accidents are all too common in the United States. While some accidents leave the vehicles’ occupants unscathed, others result in serious injuries. If you have been hurt in an auto accident as a result of someone else’s negligence on the road, it’s imperative that you take the right steps in order to recover the compensation you are entitled to.

It’s important to take pictures of the accident scene, and to get the contact information of as many witnesses to the accident as you can talk to. If you cannot do this yourself, ask someone else to do it for you. You should seek medical assistance right away for your injuries, and keep all of your medical records for future reference. Finally, you will need a repair estimate for the damage to your vehicle.

Your most important step will be to speak with a seasoned auto accident lawyer in Atlanta. Pursuing legal cases is a complex matter, and you will need a lawyer who knows the relevant laws well and has the experience necessary to build your case. With the right lawyer on your side, you will be able to be compensated for the injuries you have suffered.

If you have been involved in a truck accident, it’s important that you contact an experienced auto accident lawyer near Decatur and Atlanta right away. However, the safest way to protect yourself from truck accidents as a driver is to educate yourself about what causes them. By avoiding these common causes of truck accidents, you can help yourself and others stay safe on the road.

Reckless lane changing. Whether you are driving a truck yourself or driving near one, it’s essential to be cautious when changing lanes. Veering back and forth between lanes is extremely hazardous, but abruptly switching lanes without signaling and giving other drivers time to react is just as likely to result in an accident. If a truck changes lanes near you, be sure to give the driver enough space to complete the move safely.

Driving in a blind spot. Every driver has blind spots, but truck drivers’ blind spots tend to be particularly substantial—and dangerous. If you are driving close to a truck, avoid staying in the vehicle’s side and rear, where it will be most difficult for the driver to see you. The more visible you are, the safer you will be. If you are driving a truck yourself, be mindful of your own blind spots and signal well before switching lanes.

Passing slowly. Unsafe passing is one of the most common reasons for a truck accident. If you need to pass a truck, be sure to do it quickly; the longer you linger there, the more vulnerable you are to an accident. Also, be sure to always pass to the truck’s left—most drivers will not expect other vehicles to try to pass on their right. If you are driving in windy weather, be aware that high winds can affect the position of your vehicle when you pull out in front of a large truck.