Tips to Avoid Garbage Truck Accidents
Garbage truck accidents are a serious concern in Washington, D.C. In 2019 alone, the District of Columbia saw more than 500 reported garbage truck crashes resulting in at least 13 fatalities and hundreds more injured victims. The majority of the collisions involved other motor vehicles, but pedestrians were also significantly impacted by these preventable incidents.
Causes of Garbage Truck Accidents Due to Negligence
The most common causes of garbage truck accidents in Washington, D.C. include driver error (such as speeding or distracted driving), mechanical failure (such as tire blowouts), and hazardous road conditions (potholes, debris, etc.) Additionally, improper loading of the trucks can also lead to rollover or tipping incidents which can be especially dangerous for nearby pedestrians. In the District, the Department of Public Works is responsible for collections in smaller apartment buildings and single-family homes.
Why Driving Near a Garbage Truck Is Dangerous
Garbage trucks often travel on busy roads and intersections, so it’s important to stay alert when driving near them. Garbage truck drivers are responsible for navigating large vehicles, creating wide turns and having a limited field of vision due to the height of their cabs. As such, they may have difficulty seeing smaller vehicles that are close by or may fail to yield when making turns. Additionally, garbage trucks can often weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded; this increased weight makes them difficult to control and brake quickly in the event of an emergency.
Tips for Staying Safe Around Garbage Trucks
When driving near a garbage truck, it’s important to maintain a safe distance, be aware of its movements, and avoid sudden or unsafe maneuvers. Additionally, bicyclists and pedestrians should be extra vigilant when approaching or crossing the street near a garbage truck, as they can be difficult to see due to their size.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a garbage truck accident in Washington, D.C., it’s important to seek professional legal advice right away as these. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Maintain a safe following distance from the truck; at least two car lengths are recommended.
- Stay alert for signs that the garbage truck may be turning or stopping suddenly.
- Be aware of the truck’s blind spots and never pass on the right side.
- Don’t make any sudden movements when driving near the truck.
- Always yield to a garbage truck that is entering or crossing an intersection.
- Be extra vigilant when approaching or crossing a street near a garbage truck as they can be difficult to see due to their size.
- If you are a pedestrian or cyclist, always make eye contact with the driver before proceeding.
- Never try to cut in front of a garbage truck as it is dangerous and illegal.
Recovering Injury Compensation Following a Crash With a Negligent Garbage Truck Driver
If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident in Washington, D.C., it’s important to seek professional legal advice right away. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal rights and fight for the full compensation that you deserve. Victims of garbage truck accidents may be entitled to damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Roeser Law Firm: Fighting for Your Rights
Contact Roeser Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation by calling us at (202) 660-4070 or contact us online to learn how we can help you with your garbage truck accident claim. Let us fight for the justice and compensation that you deserve.
At Roeser Law Firm, we have experience handling all types of personal injury cases in Washington, D.C., including garbage truck accidents. Our dedicated legal team is committed to helping injured victims recover the compensation they deserve after an unexpected accident caused by negligent drivers. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome in your case.
