Dump Truck Accidents
Recently, Texas has witnessed a number of dump truck accidents. On January 4, the lower levels of Interstate 10 were closed after an 18-wheel dump truck accidentally released the trailer mechanism, causing the trailer to rise and hit an overhead sign. No injuries occurred, but the highway was closed for nearly six hours to ensure it was safe for motorists. Another dump truck accident that occurred in late December was far more traumatic. A dump truck apparently rolled away from where it was being loaded and ran into a home in Hillsborough, striking a five-year-old boy. The child was pronounced dead at the hospital.
While dump trucks are necessary vehicles, negligent operation and driving of these trucks can lead to serious and deadly incidents. Individuals who are hurt or lose a loved one in an accident with a dump truck should speak with an experienced Texas personal injury and wrongful death attorney for help filing a claim.
Dump Truck Accident Statistics
It is difficult to find specific figures on auto accidents involving dump trucks since this is a generic term for commercial trucks that haul materials and can unload in a certain way. However, the Texas Department of Transportation does provide figures in regard to the type of vehicles in accidents every year. According to the DOT, 428 trucks with tractors or semi-trailers, which likely includes various types of dump trucks, were involved in accidents. These accidents led to property destruction, injuries, and deaths.
Causes of Dump Trump Accidents
Like all auto accidents, dump trucks can collide with other vehicles due to the driver’s negligence. A truck driver may cause a crash due to:
- Distraction from eating, drinking, or using a cell phone;
- Being drowsy or falling asleep at the wheel;
- Intoxication from illegal drugs, prescription medications, or alcohol;
- Speeding;
- Following too closely to other vehicles; and/or
- Swerving between lanes.
Two causes of dump truck accidents that are more greatly related to the type of vehicle include backing-up accidents and tipping over. A lack of proper training, inexperience, carelessness, and recklessness can cause a dump truck driver to back up without knowing they have a clear path. These factors can also lead the driver to improperly load the truck or take too fast or tight turns, causing the dump truck to tip or roll over.
Recovering Compensation after a Dump Truck Accident
If you were injured in a collision with a dump truck or you lost a loved one in a crash, do not hesitate to reach out for legal advice. For both incidents, you may seek compensation through the at-fault party’s insurance provider. For a dump truck accident, you will need to investigate who was at fault for the accident. If the responsible person was an employee, you will likely to need to find out the employer’s insurance information.
If an insurance settlement is not possible, you will need to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim in court. To do this, contact the experienced New Braunfels personal injury lawyers of the Bettersworth Law Firm today.
Sources:
http://www.ksat.com/traffic/eb-i-10-lower-level-closed-following-18-wheeler-accident
http://kxan.com/2016/12/27/911-calls-reveal-frantic-moments-after-5-year-old-boy-hit-by-dump-truck/
http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/trf/crash_statistics/2015/27.pdf
