Garbage Truck Accidents
In your neighborhood, you may see garbage trucks on a weekly basis as they pick up your trash. Garbage trucks have an important job, but these are large vehicles that can cause serious accidents.
Garbage trucks are much larger than your average vehicles, weighing as much as 25 tons when fully loaded. Plus, these trucks often make sudden stops and erratic moves as they pick up garbage multiple times throughout the course of a day.
While garbage truck drivers have an unsafe job, other motorists are often affected by the actions of these drivers. A driver who is not properly trained on operation can easily cause a major accident. Many people are injured or killed by these trucks every year.
Causes of Garbage Truck Crashes
Garbage truck accidents may be caused by the following:
- Driver error. Just like any other vehicle, accidents can happen due to mistakes made by the driver, such as speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Poor visibility. Garbage trucks often have limited visibility, especially when reversing or maneuvering in tight spaces. This can lead to accidents with other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects.
- Improper loading of cargo. If garbage or debris is not properly loaded or secured in the truck, it can spill onto the road, creating hazards for other vehicles and potentially causing accidents.
- Weather conditions. Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice, or fog can reduce visibility and traction, making it more challenging to operate the vehicle safely.
- Obstacles and hazards. Garbage truck drivers often encounter various obstacles and hazards on the road, such as potholes, debris, uneven surfaces, or parked vehicles, which can contribute to accidents.
- Lack of training. Insufficient training or experience for garbage truck drivers may lead to errors in judgment or improper handling of the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Reckless driving by other vehicles. Accidents can also occur due to the actions of other drivers on the road, such as reckless driving, sudden lane changes, or failure to yield to the garbage truck.
- Garbage truck drivers often work long hours and may experience fatigue, which can impair their ability to drive safely and increase the risk of accidents.
- Inadequate maintenance. If the garbage truck is not properly maintained, it may be more prone to mechanical failures or malfunctions, increasing the risk of accidents. Regular maintenance checks are crucial for ensuring the safety of the vehicle.
- Mechanical failure. Issues with the garbage truck’s mechanical components, such as brakes, tires, steering systems, or engine failure, can lead to accidents.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Garbage trucks are important but also very dangerous. Be alert when around these vehicles.
The impact of a crash can cause major injuries and even death. Be sure to seek compensation from a Houston garbage truck accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure you get a favorable outcome. Fill out the online form or call 281-347-3247 to schedule a consultation.
Source:
onlinesafetytrainer.com/8-safety-tips-for-garbage-truck-drivers-garbage-collection-companies/
