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Expert Legal Assistance for Garbage Truck Accidents in Kansas City, Missouri
Injuries and damages caused by Garbage trucks in Kansas City vary in each case depending on the vehicle suffering the collision with the truck and the circumstances leading to the accident.
Since trash trucks are bigger in size, any vehicle colliding with them is more likely to suffer serious damage and injuries.
Need help with a garbage truck crash? Our experienced attorneys handle all types of trash truck accidents. Contact us today for for legal support.
Common Causes of Garbage Truck Accidents
Garbage truck collisions may occur due to the following common reasons:
- Driver’s negligence or lack of driving expertise
- Driver’s fatigue
- Vehicle malfunction
- Intoxicated driving
- Weather conditions leading to slippery roads
The weather in Kansas City can be somewhat unpredictable during the Spring-Summer season due to unexpected rains. Therefore, the risk of car accidents with garbage trucks during this time may also be higher due to frequently slippery roads. According to NHTSA, an alarming increase of approximately 58% has been observed in heavy truck collision fatalities during the 10 years from 2012 to 2022.
Typical Injuries from Garbage Truck Accidents
The huge size and weight, along with the speed of both vehicles, play a vital role in causing serious damage and injuries in a garbage collection truck accident. Common small to moderate injuries suffered due to such accidents are whiplash, muscle strain, bruises, minor fractures, concussions, etc. Whereas lacerations, multiple fractures, spinal & brain injuries, chronic pain injuries, memory loss, paralysis, or disability fall under the severe injuries category. Psychological injuries, e.g., PTSD, anxiety & road fear, etc., may also be considered.
Who Are the Victims in Garbage Truck Accidents?
The drivers of Garbage trucks may inadvertently cause an accident with pedestrians, bicyclists & motorcyclists who may moving along the blind spots. Children may also be prone to such accidents due to their natural curiosity. The drivers may also suffer accidents due to vehicle malfunction, slip & trip from truck, vehicle derailing due to slippery roads and traffic congestion.
Determining Liability in Kansas City Garbage Truck Accidents
Liability determination requires a thorough analysis of any particular case by assessment of the circumstances & factors leading to the accident. The driver of an accident garbage truck may be the primary liable party in case of driver’s negligence. However, the driver of the other vehicle may also be held liable in partial fault cases. Vehicle manufacturers may be held liable in cases of vehicle malfunction accidents.
Recoverable Damages in Garbage Truck Accidents
Major heads of recoverable damages in a garbage truck crash are medical expenses, lost wages, psychological treatment expenses, property loss, and punitive damages. The following table provides an example of real cases with compensation amounts in various garbage truck crashes:
Case | Compensation Value |
$38.8 Million | |
$200,000 | |
$600,000 |
Steps to Take After a Garbage Truck Accident
Step 1
Contact relevant emergency authorities to report the accident and request assistance.
Step 2
Seek medical attention for injuries suffered.
Step 3
Visit relevant precinct for statement recording and collecting necessary documents for claim assessment and determination of liable parties.
Step 4
Contact an expert garbage truck accident settlement attorney for claim assessment & prompt filing to ensure timely compensation.
Sharing the Road Safely with Garbage Trucks
It’s important to remain aware of your surroundings while traveling or crossing the road. The Pedestrians and small vehicle drivers must maintain a safe distance from heavy vehicles to avoid blind spots & ensure extra space for turns. Drivers must be cautious while driving especially in rainy weather. Complying with road safety requirements & obeying traffic rules is extremely necessary to avoid any unforeseen circumstances leading to road accidents.
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