The Dangers of Garbage Truck Accidents
A lot of garbage trucks have made Florida news lately, with involvement in numerous accidents. Whether working for a government agency or a private company, these truck drivers have a duty to operate these vehicles in a safe manner to avoid accidents and promote the safety of those traveling around them. When they fail to uphold this duty, the effects are often serious and fatal. The extra weight of their cargo makes for a particularly difficult situation when accidents do occur. With the help of an experienced lawyer, victims can secure financial compensation from these drivers and/or their employers as compensation for the pain and suffering they cause.
Recent Florida Accidents
- Florida news outlet WESH reported on a motorcyclist who lost his life after a collision with a garbage truck. According to the report, the trash truck driver turned into the path of the motorcyclist, killing him and injuring his passenger. The garbage truck driver is under investigation and could reportedly face criminal charges.
- News 4 in Jacksonville is reporting about a pickup truck that collided with a garbage truck on a wet, slippery road. The pickup truck driver is reportedly hospitalized. The trash truck turned over on its side, spilling debris onto the highway, including oil.
- Fox News reported on a garbage truck driver who lost control of his vehicle. After driving through numerous trees and branches, he slammed into a duplex, where a woman was sleeping. Luckily she did not sustain any physical injuries, but the dwelling was left with a large hole in the wall.
These are just a few examples of the damage that can occur when a trash truck is not operated in an adequately safe manner. These vehicles differ from large commercial trucks in that they are commonly operated on city streets, as opposed to long interstate hauls. As such, pedestrians, children and local drivers are at a considerable risk of involvement in an accident involving a trash truck.
However, garbage trucks are similar to tractor trailers in their weight and potential for hazard. For this reason, drivers are required to secure and maintain a commercial driver’s license. Under state law, these licenses are required when the vehicle meets the following characteristics:
- Weighs 10,000 pounds or more;
- Transports hazardous material, which is often the case with garbage trucks; and/or
- Is able to transport at least 15 passengers.
When garbage truck accidents happen, significant injuries can occur. It is vitally important for victims to contact an experienced lawyer as soon as they are able to do so. When initiating a case, the lawyer must investigate the accident scene and locate any witnesses. Details about the employer’s insurance, as well as the condition of the driver, are also important. Garbage truck drivers are required to carry a state specified amount of insurance. Failure to do so,can significantly affect the direction of a case and possibly subject the truck owner and/or operator to criminal liability.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a garbage truck accident, contact the Miami legal team of Pita Weber Del Prado for knowledgeable and skillful representation. Call the office today at 305-670-2889 for a free consultation.
