If you hit any large vehicle including a commercial vehicle or city managed vehicle like a garbage truck, it is important to stop and get the relevant accident information at the scene. This is because this can help to reduce the compensation that you must take care of on your own by identifying who may be responsible for the accident in the legal recourse you may have as an accident victim.

Unfortunately, many people have the perception that garbage trucks move slowly because they have to stop at one piece of property at a time. However, a driver who is not paying attention or driving too quickly can cause a garbage truck accident. The vital service of removing waste from our home can become problematic when an accident occurs. Very severe injuries may be associated with garbage truck accidents, particularly for bicyclists and pedestrians. The size of a garbage truck is the primary hazard because it can be difficult for the driver to see all of his or her surroundings.

Confined spaces make it even more likely that a garbage truck accident will happen. Since these vehicles make constant starts and stops and may need to backup, pedestrians and children are at a very high risk because they may be caught underneath the vehicle. Accidents involving a garbage truck should be handled directly by a personal injury lawyer. Some of the most common reasons for garbage truck accidents include illegal lane changes, unexpected stops, driving in the wrong lane, loose garbage truck tires or wheels, and falling debris. Furthermore, other problems may include:

  •       Not yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks
  •       Failing to stop at red lights
  •       Manufacturer defects
  •       The truck backing up without the driver looking behind
  •       Trucks backing up without using warning alarms
  •       Speeding
  •       Distracted drivers

Everything that should be handled in your comprehensive garbage truck accident lawsuit should be reviewed carefully by an experienced attorney at the outset of your case so that you know what to expect.