What you Need to Know About Garbage Truck Accidents

For every hundred thousand people in Texas, two of them die every year in truck-related accidents. In 2009, Texas had a population of about 25 million people. This means that approximately 250 people died in truck-related accidents in the past year alone. A staggering 84% of truck related accidents result in fatalities. It is important to remember that wrecks involving garbage trucks account for a number of these injuries and fatalities.

Garbage Truck Wrecks Are Large Truck Wrecks

The results of having a wreck with a garbage truck are virtually identical with having a wreck with an 18-wheeler. Unfortunately, many people do not give garbage trucks the space they warrant. When you are passing a tractor trailer on the interstate, you probably give it a wide berth and get past it as quickly as possible. With a garbage truck, you might drive along behind it or beside it without giving it a second thought, because they are just a normal part of everyday life.

Garbage trucks are just as likely to be involved in fatalities as semi trucks, and they have very limited visibility when they are making their regular rounds. It is important to remember that garbage truck drivers may get distracted looking at their next stop, or simply operating the truck itself. All it takes is one moment of distraction to cause an accident.

What You Should Be Aware of Around Garbage Trucks

Wide turns and Frequent Stops:
We are all well aware that garbage trucks stop frequently. Keep a safe distance at all times to prevent the possibility of being in too close of contact with the garbage truck.
Mechanical Problems:
With all of the moving parts involved in a garbage truck, it is likely that they will have some sort of mechanical problem at some point. Always be aware of your surroundings and drive defensively if there seems to be a problem with a garbage truck.
Falling trash:
If you are driving near a garbage truck while they are on their route, make sure to keep a safe distance to avoid having trash or other objects fall on you or your car.
Limited Visibility:
Much like semi-trucks, garbage trucks have very limited visibility. If you are driving or walking near a garbage truck take precaution to make sure you are seen before passing or approaching the area where a garbage truck is located.

If you have been injured in a wreck involving a garbage truck it is important to have a Board Certified Personal Injury Lawyer on your side. For a free consultation with The Anderson Law Firm please CLICK HERE.