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Personal Injury & Wrongful Death

Police Chase Indictment

Our police chase injury lawyers have handled many cases involving the deaths of innocent civilians due to police chasing suspects for minor crimes. We have previously written about police departments that have adopted restrictive policies limiting chases and decreasing the chances that innocent civilians and police officers can be seriously injured or killed.
On May 30, 2007, in Forestville, Maryland, a police officer was chasing a motorcyclist for speeding. During the chase, the police officer tried to position his car to stop the speeding
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FDA Circumvents Congressional Intent In Favor Of Drug Companies

Last year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a proposed rule which directly contradicts Congress’ expressed intent when it passed the Food and Drug Administration Amendments Act of 2007 (FDAAA), an Act which encompasses the Prescription Drug and User Fee Act. As a result, drug companies will enjoy more relaxed labeling requirements and will surely use the rule to claim immunity for failing to warn patients of potential drug hazards. When Congress passed the FDAAA it included language confirming the responsibility of the drug
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Drug Ads Investigated

We have previously written about controversial drug advertising that takes place in the United States. Once again, this practice has come to the forefront through Dr. Robert Jarvik, who is best known as the developer of an artificial heart. About two years ago, Dr. Jarvik began appearing in television ads for the drug Lipitor, manufactured by Pfizer.
In the ads, Dr. Jarvik is depicted in various athletic pursuits, such as rowing and running, and tells viewers that Lipitor significantly lowers cholesterol when diet and exercise
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Botox Danger

The U.S. consumer advocacy group, Public Citizen, has called upon authorities to require that Botox and a similar injections come with strong warnings following reports of 16 deaths and other serious problems after the botulinum toxin spread inside the body. Public Citizen asked U.S. authorities to require the strongest possible warning, highlighted in a “black box,” on Allergan Inc’s Botox and Solstice Neuroscience Inc’s Myobloc.
Botox is used widely to decrease facial wrinkles but also has approved medical uses such as treating cervical dystonia, or
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Sugar Refinery Blast Leaves Many Dead – Others Injured

Our Georgia injury lawyers are accustomed to seeing cases involving horrible injury and cases of death caused by all types of accidents but burn cases are at the top of the list. We were discussing the news accounts today in Savannah reporting that firefighters found three, and perhaps as many as six, bodies in the wreckage of a still-burning sugar refinery leveled by an explosion overnight. In addition to the death cases, dozens of employees have been injured, many critically burned. Officials suspect
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Georgia and Atlanta Area Serious Injury Cases: Frequently Asked Question Number 9

This blog will continue in our series of providing our readers with answers to frequently asked questions in the context of a serious injury case. This blog will address FAQ number 9:
8. If I am injured by a third party, but I am also working on the job at the time, am I entitled to both workers’ compensation coverage and a liability settlement?
Answer: The answer is yes although there may be a claim for subrogation made by the workers’ compensation insurance carrier. If
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PART II: TOLLING THE STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS

It is well established that failure to comply with an ante-litem notification provision within the time required by law is a bar to any right of action. See Mattox v. Bailey, 221 Ga. App. 546, 472 S.E. 2d 130 (1996). However, an ante-litem time requirement has been held to be, in itself, a form of statute of limitations, with all general principles applicable to statutes of limitation also applying to ante-litem time restrictions, including tolling provisions. See Howard v. State, 226 Ga. App. 543, 487
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DANGEROUS MEDICAL DEVICES AND DOCTORS

Lawyers who practice in the field of dangerous medical devices and drugs are never surprised to discover relationships between physicians and pharmaceutical and medical device companies. Recently, questionable ties between supposedly objective researchers and the maker of an artificial spinal disk have come to light. An artificial spinal disk is a device that is used in place of conventional surgery during which patients’ vertebrae are fused.
In a study of nearly 240 patients with lower back pain, physicians reported that the artificial spine disk, manufactured
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TOLLING THE STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS IN TORT CASES FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME

As Georgia personal injury lawyers know, the typical statute of limitations for a bodily injury case in Georgia is two years from the date of the occurence at issue. However, in cases involving victims of criminal acts who have potential civil causes of actions against those who brought about injury to them, there are some nuances of Georgia law that all attorneys in this field should know.
The purpose of this entry is to acquaint the Plaintiff’s bar with a very important but little known statute. The statute at issue, O.C.G.A. § 9-3-99, was passed as part of the “Crime Victims Restitution Act of 2005.” It became effective July 1, 2005 and reads as follows:
The running of the period of limitations with respect to any cause of action in tort that may be brought by the victim of an alleged crime which arises out of the facts and circumstances relating to the commission of such alleged crime committed in this state shall be tolled from the date of the commission of the alleged crime or the act giving rise to such action in tort until the prosecution of such crime or act has become final or otherwise terminated, provided that such time does not exceed six (6) years.
Given that virtually every automobile accident involves misdemeanor criminal charges against a negligent driver (who presumably violated the Georgia Uniform Rules of the Road and was charged via a citation), it is submitted that in virtually every automobile accident tort case, this statute could potentially extend the statute of limitations from 2 years to 6 years. The same is true for any tort case (particularly intentional torts) resulting in criminal charges against a defendant. While the new statute has yet to be interpreted by any Georgia court, there are many interesting legal issues that may emerge in the future with respect to it.
Our firm first became aware of this statute in the context of two wrongful death actions we were prosecuting on behalf of separate families in Canada. These two deaths had occurred in a very bad tractor-trailer accident. While preparing those cases for trial, we contacted another person who had been injured in the same accident. This particular person lived in the state of Florida. When we first contacted the individual about providing a deposition for our cases, two years had already passed since the accident occurred. The witness, nonetheless, asked if our firm could assist him in bringing claims against the trucking company responsible for the collision. Because of the passage of time and also because we had a conflict of interest representing a witness we needed to depose for our other clients, we declined. However, when we later settled the two wrongful death cases and advised the witness his deposition was no longer needed, he again asked if we could be of service to him. Even though the otherwise applicable two-year statute of limitations had arguably run, because the tractor-trailer driver had been charged with vehicular homicide in connection with the deaths in our other two cases and because our conflict no longer existed, we agreed to file claims on the new client’s behalf and to assert in his case that the statute of limitations had been tolled since he was a “victim” of a crime which had been committed in this state.

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Car Accidents: Georgia Serious Injury Cases: Frequently Asked Question Number 8

This blog will continue in our series of providing our readers with answers to frequently asked questions in the context of a serious injury case. This blog will address FAQ number 8:
9. If I have no health insurance and the at fault driver has little or no liability insurance coverage, what happens if my medical bills exceed available coverages?
Answer: This is a sad case that we see far too often in our practice. The hypothetical at fault driver has run the stop sign
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Can a Lawyer Tell Me if Multiple Parties Are Responsible for My Accident?

Losing a loved one in an accident is devastating on every emotional, physical, and financial level.

When a tragic incident occurs because someone else acted carelessly, the surviving family is often left searching for answers: Who caused this?

Could it have been prevented?

Who is responsible?

These questions matter not only for closure but also for justice and compensation.

This is where an experienced wrongful
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How Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Figure Out Who Caused the Crash?

When a truck crash happens, everything about the scene is more complicated than a regular car accident.

Large commercial vehicles have multiple parties involved — drivers, trucking companies, maintenance crews, cargo loaders, and sometimes even manufacturers.

Because of this, figuring out who actually caused the crash requires skill, strategy, and an investigative mindset.

A truck accident lawyer steps in with a system designed to uncover the truth piece by piece.
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How Do Attorneys Handle Cases Where a Trucking Company Broke Federal Safety Laws?

Truck accidents are complicated under normal circumstances—but when a trucking company violates federal safety laws, everything changes.

These cases become high-stakes investigations requiring strategy, evidence, and deep knowledge of federal regulations.

If you suspect that a trucking company ignored safety rules, working with an experienced attorney is essential.

A skilled Atlanta truck accident lawyer knows how to trace violations, expose misconduct, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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How Will an Attorney Help Me Recover Funeral and Financial Damages After a Wrongful Death?

Losing a loved one is one of the most emotionally challenging experiences a person can face.

When that loss occurs due to someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act, the grief is often compounded by financial burdens.

Funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, and other financial hardships can leave families struggling both emotionally and financially.

In such cases, a Duluth Wrongful Death Attorney can play a crucial role in
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Do I Need a Lawyer for a Truck Accident or Can I Handle This Alone?

Truck accidents are often more complex than standard car accidents.

If you’ve recently been involved in a collision with a commercial vehicle, you may find yourself wondering whether you need professional legal help or if you can handle the situation alone.

Understanding the legal, financial, and medical implications of truck accidents is crucial before making this decision.

In this article, we will explore the factors that determine whether hiring a lawyer is necessary, the challenges
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How Do I Know if My Accident Qualifies for a Lawsuit?

After an accident, it is normal to feel confused, stressed, and unsure about your next steps.

You may be wondering if the accident qualifies for a lawsuit, whether you have a legal claim, and how a lawyer can help you understand your rights.

Many people hesitate to speak with an attorney because they think their accident may not be serious enough or they simply do not know how the law works.

The truth is
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When Hospitals Hide Mistakes — What Duluth Families Can Do Next

Medical care is built on trust. Patients trust hospitals to provide accurate diagnoses, safe treatment, and honest communication. 

Yet, across Georgia and the U.S., families sometimes discover that a healthcare provider has made an error — and even worse, that the hospital failed to disclose it. 

When hospitals hide mistakes, the consequences can be devastating for Duluth families already struggling to understand what went wrong.

Whether the issue involves a misdiagnosis, surgical error,
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Can a Trucking Company Be Liable for Poor Maintenance?

When a truck accident happens, one of the first questions victims ask is: Who is responsible? 

While driver errors like speeding or fatigue often play a role, another major cause lies behind the scenes—poor maintenance. 

Commercial trucks are massive, complicated machines that require consistent inspections, repairs, and safety checks. 

If a trucking company fails to maintain its fleet properly, devastating accidents can occur, leaving victims with serious
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Can You File a Claim Against a Third-Party Delivery Contractor?

When a delivery driver causes an accident, determining who is legally responsible can quickly become confusing. 

Many companies—Amazon, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and independent courier services—use third-party delivery contractors rather than hiring drivers directly. 

That means the driver who caused the crash may not be an employee of the company whose package they were delivering.

So, if you’re injured, can you file a claim against a third-party delivery contractor?

The short answer:

yes, in many cases you can—and often, you may be able to pursue compensation from multiple parties involved.

This guide breaks down how liability works in these cases, what evidence matters most, which parties can be held accountable, and how an Atlanta delivery truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the process.

Understanding Third-Party Delivery Contractors

Third-party delivery contractors are independent companies or self-employed drivers hired to transport packages for a larger company. 

For example:

  • An Amazon Flex driver using their own vehicle
  • A contracted delivery van delivering for FedEx
  • Local couriers hired by major retailers
  • Independent logistics companies working for national brands

Because they are not employees, the legal framework is different when they cause a crash.

Can You File a Claim Against the Driver?

Absolutely.

If the contractor-driver’s negligence caused the accident—speeding, texting, improper lane changes, or fatigue—you can file a claim directly against:

  • The driver personally
  • The delivery contracting company
  • Their commercial insurance policy

This is typically the first step in a commercial vehicle accident lawsuit because commercial policies offer higher coverage limits than personal auto insurance.

Can You File a Claim Against the Contracting Company?

Yes, and this is often where the largest compensation comes from.

A delivery contractor’s company may be liable if:

1. They failed to train or supervise their drivers

If the driver was unqualified or had a history of traffic violations, the company can be held responsible.

2. They pushed drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines

Requiring high-speed deliveries often leads to reckless behavior.

3. They failed to maintain their vehicles

Poor brakes, worn tires, or overloaded vehicles can be signs of negligence.

4. They violated federal or state trucking regulations

This can significantly strengthen your claim in a commercial vehicle accident lawsuit.

The company’s negligence can make them liable even if the driver is considered an independent contractor.

Can You File a Claim Against the Retailer or Shipping Company?

Sometimes—yes.

Although major corporations often try to avoid liability by using contractors, they may still be responsible if:

  • They set unsafe delivery expectations
  • They failed to vet the contractors
  • The contractor acted as an “agent” of the company
  • Their branding or instructions created dangerous conditions

This makes claims more complex, but it can also increase the potential value of your truck accident compensation in Atlanta.

Common Causes of Accidents Involving Delivery Contractors

These accidents often share patterns of negligence, such as:

Driver Fatigue

Rushed schedules or long hours often push contractors to keep working even when exhausted.

Distracted Driving

GPS use, scanning packages, and phone apps can distract delivery drivers.

Improper Backing or Parking

Stopping in unsafe locations or reversing without caution is extremely common for delivery drivers.

Speeding to Meet Deadlines

Cutting corners on safety often leads to crashes in busy areas.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Contractor vans and trucks may not receive the same oversight as corporate fleets.

Why These Claims Are More Complicated

Claims involving independent contractors can be more challenging because:

  • Companies deny responsibility by stating the driver wasn’t an employee
  • Insurance carriers often dispute coverage
  • Contractors may have lower policy limits
  • Multiple third-party companies may share liability
  • Evidence must be collected quickly before it disappears

This is where hiring an experienced delivery truck accident attorney is essential.

How an Atlanta Delivery Truck Accident Lawyer Helps

A seasoned attorney can strengthen your claim by:

1. Identifying All Liable Parties

A single accident may involve:

  • The contractor
  • The subcontractor
  • The retailer
  • The logistics coordinator
  • The driver

Each one may hold a portion of responsibility.

2. Obtaining Corporate and Electronic Evidence

This may include:

  • GPS data
  • Driver logs
  • Service records
  • Vehicle inspections
  • Delivery schedules
  • App communication between driver and company

Companies rarely release this voluntarily—your lawyer must demand it legally.

3. Negotiating With Multiple Insurance Companies

Delivery contractors may carry several types of policies, including:

  • Commercial auto insurance
  • General liability insurance
  • Umbrella policies
  • Employer liability policies

An attorney ensures you claim against every possible coverage.

4. Maximizing Compensation

With a strong legal strategy, victims can recover:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Future treatment costs
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage
  • Wrongful death compensation

Hiring an Atlanta delivery truck accident lawyer dramatically improves your chance of receiving full and fair compensation.

What Evidence Helps You Win Your Claim?

To file a successful claim against a third-party delivery contractor, you will need:

• Police reports

Documenting fault and initial findings.

• Photos and videos

Of the scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, or injuries.

• Witness statements

Supporting your version of events.

• Electronic delivery logs

Showing driver activity before the crash.

• Vehicle inspection records

Proving poor maintenance or equipment failures.

• Black box or GPS data

Revealing speed, braking, and route history.

Swift action is crucial because companies may try to erase, hide, or “lose” electronic records if they’re not preserved quickly.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims—including those involving delivery contractors—is typically two years from the date of the accident.

However, evidence may disappear long before that, so it’s best to consult a delivery truck accident attorney immediately.

When a Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawsuit Is Necessary

Most claims settle out of court.

But you may need to file a lawsuit if:

  • The company denies responsibility
  • The insurance carrier refuses fair compensation
  • Multiple parties blame each other
  • Evidence shows corporate negligence
  • Your injuries are severe or permanent

A lawsuit allows your attorney to use subpoena power to force companies to hand over critical documents.

Truck Accident Compensation in Atlanta: What to Expect

Your compensation will depend on:

  • Severity of injuries
  • Long-term disability
  • Medical needs
  • Lost income
  • Impact on your daily life
  • Evidence of negligence
  • Number of liable parties

Cases involving commercial vehicles often lead to higher settlement values because contractors and retailers typically carry larger insurance policies.

Conclusion

You can file a claim against a third-party delivery contractor—and often, you can file against multiple responsible parties. 

Because these cases are filled with legal complexities, corporate involvement, and conflicting insurance policies, working with an experienced Atlanta delivery truck accident lawyer is the strongest way to protect your rights and maximize compensation.

Whether your accident involved Amazon, FedEx, UPS, or any contracted delivery company, a skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal process, preserve critical evidence, and secure the compensation you deserve.

About Us

Finch McCranie LLP is a trial practice firm, with a long history of success. 

Founded in 1965 by Baxter Finch and Claude Ross, the firm quickly established itself as among the best plaintiffs’ personal injury firms in Georgia, with numerous notable plaintiffs’ verdicts. 

In the 60s and 70s, Baxter and Claude traveled throughout the state, trying cases regularly and cementing the firm’s reputation as one of the premier plaintiffs’ firms in Georgia.

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Medication Errors in Duluth Hospitals: Who’s Really Responsible?

When a loved one is admitted to a hospital, families trust doctors and nurses to deliver the right treatment, follow proper procedures, and monitor medication carefully. 

Yet every year, patients across the United States—and right here in Duluth—suffer harm because of avoidable medication errors. 

These mistakes can lead to severe complications, lifelong injuries, or even death.

When this happens, one question arises: Who is really responsible?

Understanding liability in hospital medication
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