Garbage trucks are a necessary part of our neighborhoods, and they help keep communities clean and functioning. In the United States, there are around 150,000 garbage trucks alone. But, despite their importance and rumble that has become part of our routines, these large trucks pose serious dangers on the road.
Because of their frequent stops, limited visibility, and size, garbage trucks are involved in a shocking number of accidents per year. The victims of these accidents include workers, pedestrians, children, and other drivers.
When injured in such a crash, victims are entitled to a settlement for their damages. However, to receive the maximum compensation, you must prove that the garbage truck accident was caused by negligence. Understanding what causes these accidents is the first step towards establishing liability. It also helps to reduce garbage truck accidents.
Driver Inattention or Fatigue
Garbage start routes start early, between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. The shift ends when a driver completes their route. Most drivers work 12 hours, with those in commercial driving clocking 14 hours.
Drivers often begin their shifts while it is still dark, and the after-hours tasks are still physically demanding. This means a driver can easily get tired. Fatigued drivers are less alert on the road and more likely to make dangerous mistakes.
Another common reason is distraction. Looking at a phone, eating, or even talking to a coworker can lead to missed stop signs, failed turns, or not seeing pedestrians and kids riding in the street.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Garbage trucks go through a lot of wear and tear. Their heavy loads, constant starts and stops, and hydraulic systems require regular maintenance. Unfortunately, some sanitation companies, especially smaller ones, end up cutting corners when it comes to repairs to minimize costs.
This can lead to faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or malfunctioning lights. In some cases, maintenance logs may show that issues were ignored for weeks or even months.
Blind Spots and Limited Visibility
Because of their design, garbage trucks have plenty of large blind spots. Drivers have a hard time seeing behind or on the sides of the vehicle. This makes it difficult for drivers to spot pedestrians, cyclists, or smaller vehicles around.
Backing up, which is part and parcel of garbage collection, becomes risky. While some trucks have rear cameras or warning alarms, it is easy for a driver to get distracted. In residential neighborhoods where kids are playing or people are walking, the risk of a tragic accident significantly increases.
Improper Loading or Overloading
Garbage trucks are designed to carry a lot of weight, with some transporting up to 18 tons, but they still have limits. When a truck is overloaded or trash is not properly stored, it can lead to serious problems.
The added weight makes braking more difficult and increases the chances of rollovers at sharp turns. Loose or shifting debris can also spill on the road, which creates a hazard for other drivers.
Reckless or Improper Driving Maneuvers
Some garbage truck drivers work under tight schedules and face the pressure to complete routes quickly. This can lead to risky behavior like speeding, skipping safety checks when backing up, or making illegal turns.
Sudden stops or failure to use turn signals can catch the other drivers off guard. While most sanitation workers take their duties seriously, there are a few who underestimate the danger they can put others in.
Conclusion
Additional factors like road conditions, poorly parked cars, narrow streets, and other drivers can also lead to garbage truck accidents.
These crashes are more common than people realize. Therefore, it is important to stay vigilant on the road. If you are injured, reach out to an attorney to pursue compensation.
