With their frequent stops and large stature, garbage trucks can pose safety risks to the pubic while workers perform their essential service. If you are a pedestrian, cyclist, or motorist injured by a garbage truck, a San Antonio garbage truck accident lawyer from George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help. Call our San Antonio truck accident lawyer today to discuss your legal options.
Common Causes of San Antonio Garbage Truck Accidents
Garbage truck accidents can occur for various reasons, with some of the most common being:
- Distractions
- Inexperienced drivers
- Unsafe loading
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Failing to signal
- Backing up without checking
An experienced San Antonio garbage truck accident attorney can gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and video footage.
Who Is Responsible for Garbage Truck Accidents in San Antonio, Texas?
Texas uses an at-fault insurance system. The party found at fault for the accident is responsible for paying for the victim’s damages. Various parties could be liable for these types of accidents, such as:
- Truck driver: Garbage truck drivers can cause accidents when they use less than the appropriate level of care while operating the garbage truck.
- Trucking company: The trucking company or government agency that hired the driver could be responsible for accidents caused by driver negligence, unsafe hiring practices, or failure to maintain the truck.
- Manufacturer: If the vehicle or a component is defective and this defect contributes to the accident, the manufacturer could be legally responsible for the accident.
- Mechanic: The trucking company or government might outsource maintenance to a third company. If the accident was caused by tire blowouts, brake failures, or other equipment malfunctions, the mechanic could be responsible for the resulting injuries.
Let our accident attorney in San Antonio investigate your case to determine who is responsible for your injuries.
Legal Complications Involved in Claims Against the Government
Both private and public companies provide trash service throughout San Antonio. If the truck was owned by the municipality or municipal government, your personal injury claim must proceed according to the Texas Tort Claims Act and applicable municipal laws. These laws are designed to protect the government, which is generally immune from suit unless it consents to being sued.
Under this law, you must provide notice to the appropriate agency within 90 days of the accident. This severely limits the time you have to take legal action. If you don’t file your notice within this timeframe, you can forfeit your right to recover compensation for your injuries. It’s critical you contact an experienced San Antonio injury lawyer to protect your legal rights.
Contact Our San Antonio Garbage Truck Accident Lawyers for a Free Case Review
If you were injured in a garbage truck accident, you may have the right to recover compensation for your property damage, lost income, and medical bills. However, claims involving the government are usually more complex than typical car accident cases. It is best to work with a lawyer who is experienced at handling these types of legal claims. Contact George Salinas Injury Lawyers today for a free case review.