If you or a loved one was injured in a dump truck accident, you have legal options for recovery. The experienced dump truck accident lawyers at Salango Law, PLLC, can review your claim, identify the parties responsible for your injuries, and relentlessly pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to take advantage of a free case review.
What Are Dump Trucks?
Dump trucks are large vehicles designed to transport loose materials, such as sand, dirt, or gravel. They contain an open box bed supported by hydraulic power, allowing the contents to slide to the ground when they are delivered.
Dump trucks are critical to the construction industry. However, due to their large size and weight, if they are not operated properly, they can cause serious injuries and fatalities.
Common Causes of Dump Truck Accidents
Some of the common causes of dump truck accidents include:
- Overloading: Dump truck drivers are frequently paid by the weight of the contents they deliver, which can create a financial incentive to overload these large trucks. Overloaded trucks are more difficult to stop and more likely to tip over.
- Inadequate training and inexperienced drivers: Sometimes, drivers are not given adequate training to safely operate the vehicle.
- Speeding: Because dump truck drivers are paid by the load, they may speed to complete deliveries to boost their pay. Speeding increases the likelihood that drivers will lose control of their vehicle and will not have enough time to stop once they recognize a hazard. Driving too fast around turns or inclines also increases the risk of rollover accidents.
- Driver fatigue: Dump truck drivers often work long hours and have demanding schedules, which can exhaust them and dull their senses.
- Distracted driving: Dump truck drivers may violate distracted driving laws by texting while driving or using a handheld cell phone while working.
- Improper loading: Other parties may contribute to the accident by overloading it or unevenly distributing the weight.
- Mechanical issues: Wear and tear on these large vehicles can cause mechanical issues to arise that contribute to accidents.
Our legal team will work tirelessly to determine the factors that contributed to your accident and who is responsible for it.
Who Is Responsible for Dump Truck Accidents?
Various parties can be responsible for these accidents, including:
The Driver
Many dump truck accidents are due to driver error. If a driver was violating a state or federal regulation or driving unsafely, they could be responsible for the accident.
The Trucking Company
The company that owns or operates the dump truck could be responsible for:
- The negligent actions of its employees
- Failing to train or supervise its drivers
- Encouraging unsafe practices
- Failing to properly maintain its trucks
The Truck or Parts Manufacturer
If a defective truck or auto part manufacturer defectively constructed parts, they could be responsible for resulting injuries.
Other Drivers
Just because a dump truck is involved does not necessarily mean the dump truck driver or company is responsible for the accident. A negligent motorist could be responsible for your injuries.
Cargo Loaders
Cargo loaders could be responsible for accidents caused by improperly loaded cargo.
Want to Learn More About Your Legal Rights? Contact Us Today
The experienced personal injury team at Salango Law, PLLC, understands the rules and regulations regarding dump trucks. Let us use our knowledge and experience to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us or contact us online to schedule a free case review.