Garbage Truck Accidents
Due to their size, weight, and frequent stops in residential and urban areas, garbage trucks are often involved in accidents that result in severe injuries and significant property damage.
Liability in Garbage Truck Accidents
Determining liability in garbage truck accidents can be complex. Potentially responsible parties include:
The Garbage Truck Driver
If the driver was negligent, such as driving while distracted, impaired, or fatigued, they may be held liable for the accident.
The Waste Management Company
The company that owns or operates the truck may be liable if they failed to train drivers properly, enforce safety protocols, or maintain their vehicles.
Government Entities
If the garbage truck is owned by the Nevada municipal government and their negligence contributed to the accident, the government entity may be held accountable. However, suing a government entity involves unique legal challenges, including strict deadlines and procedures.
Third Parties
In some cases, liability may extend to other drivers, pedestrians, or even manufacturers of defective truck parts.
Common Causes of Garbage Truck Accidents
Garbage truck accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
Frequent Stops and Unpredictable Movement
Garbage trucks frequently stop and start without warning, often blocking roadways or moving into traffic unexpectedly. This can lead to rear-end collisions or accidents when other drivers misjudge the truck’s movements.
Large Blind Spots
The size and design of garbage trucks result in significant blind spots around the vehicle, making it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists.
Heavy Trucks
Fully loaded garbage trucks can weigh up to 50,000 pounds, making it harder to stop quickly. This weight also amplifies the force of impact during a collision, leading to more severe injuries and damage.
Dangerous Equipment
The mechanical arms, compactors, and other moving parts on garbage trucks can cause severe injuries if they malfunction or come into contact with bystanders.
Poor Maintenance
Like other commercial vehicles, garbage trucks require regular maintenance to operate safely. Worn brakes, tire blowouts, or malfunctioning lights can lead to accidents.
How a Lawyer Can Help You After a Garbage Truck Accident
If you have been injured in a garbage truck accident in Nevada, hiring an experienced Las Vegas semi-truck accident attorney is crucial. Here is how an attorney can assist you:
Investigating the Accident
A lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident, gathering critical evidence such as video footage, police reports, witness statements, and the truck’s maintenance records. They may also request driver logs and GPS data to determine whether the truck driver violated safety regulations.
Determining Liability
Garbage truck accidents often involve multiple parties, and a lawyer will identify all responsible entities, including drivers, waste management companies, or government agencies. This ensures you can pursue compensation from every liable party.
Navigating Complex Claims
If the garbage truck is owned by a municipal government, your lawyer will navigate the unique procedures and deadlines involved in filing a claim against a government entity.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, but an attorney will negotiate aggressively on your behalf to ensure fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you in court, ensuring your rights are protected.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a garbage truck accident, contact Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers today. We offer free consultations, call (702) 384-1414 or message us online today.