It is undeniable that Atlanta is a major thoroughfare of the South, as the often frustrating traffic on the highway shows. Unfortunately, it is not an uncommon scenario for an automobile accident to involve an out-of-state driver, especially one operating a commercial vehicle or rental car, who often lives hundreds of miles away.
Georgia law offers recourse to individuals who are injured in an automobile accident within the state by what is referred to as the “Long Arm” statute. Georgia Code § 9-10-91 provides the following:
“A court of this state may exercise personal jurisdiction over any nonresident or his executor or administrator… in the same manner as if he were a resident of the state.”
This essentially gives us the lawful capacity to file suit and to legally enforce judgments against out-of-state drivers for injuries they cause on Georgia’s roads. It also allows for interstate businesses, such as tractor trailer companies, to be held accountable in Georgia courts for truck drivers who are liable for collisions within state boundaries.
It is always important to have experienced counsel by your side to ensure that all of your rights are protected.