Houston Garbage Truck Accident Lawyer

Garbage trucks play an essential role in maintaining public health and cleanliness by collecting and transporting waste. However, these large, heavy vehicles also pose significant risks on the roads. Due to their size, weight, and frequent stops in residential areas, accidents involving garbage trucks can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities.

When such accidents occur, victims often face complex legal challenges in seeking compensation. A Houston garbage truck accident lawyer with Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP will work to overcome any obstacles an insurance company maywill present. Our team will do everythingall we can to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

What are the Different Types of Garbage Trucks?

Garbage trucks come in various types, each designed for specific waste collection tasks. Each type presents unique operational challenges and safety risks.

• Front loaders: These trucks have hydraulic forks on the front that lift large waste containers over the cab and dump the contents into the truck’s hopper. Front loaders efficiently handle large volumes of waste but can pose visibility issues for the driver.
• Rear loaders: Workers manually load waste into the truck’s rear, which the truck then compacts. Rear loaders require frequent stops and starts, which increases the risk of accidents, especially in densely populated areas.
• Side loaders: A mechanical arm extends from the side to lift and empty waste bins. Side loaders reduce the need for manual labor but require precise operation to avoid collisions with parked cars and other obstacles.
• Roll-off trucks: Workers roll containers onto the truck bed using a hydraulic winch. Roll-off trucks are less common in residential areas but pose significant risks when navigating busy streets.

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What are the Dangers Garbage Trucks Pose to Drivers and Pedestrians?

Due to their size and operational nature, garbage trucks pose several dangers to drivers and pedestrians. These dangers include:

• Limited visibility: Garbage trucks have significant blind spots, making it difficult for drivers to see nearby vehicles and pedestrians.
• Frequent stops: They also make frequent stops, often without pulling entirely off the road. These stops can catch other drivers off guard, leading to rear-end collisions or side-swipe accidents.
• Heavy loads: The weight of a fully loaded garbage truck makes it difficult to stop quickly. This can be particularly hazardous in emergencies or areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
• Operational hazards: The mechanical components of garbage trucks, such as hydraulic arms and compactors, can pose risks if not properly maintained or operated. Malfunctions can lead to debris spills or mechanical failures, endangering nearby road users.
• Pedestrian risks: Garbage trucks often operate in residential neighborhoods where children and pets are present. The frequent stopping and starting, combined with limited visibility, create a hazardous environment for pedestrians.

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What Kind of License Does a Garbage Truck Driver Need?

Operating a garbage truck requires a specific set of skills and knowledge, so drivers must obtain the appropriate commercial driver’s license (CDL). In the United States, garbage truck drivers typically need a Class B CDL, which allows them to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. Some garbage trucks, particularly those with trailers, may require a Class A CDL.

In addition to obtaining a CDL, drivers must undergo specialized training that covers the safe operation of garbage trucks, including maneuvering in tight spaces, handling hazardous materials, and performing routine maintenance checks. Drivers must also comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, which include hours-of-service rules and periodic medical examinations to ensure they are physically capable of safely operating heavy vehicles.

How Can a Houston Garbage Truck Accident Lawyer Prove Another’s Negligence Led to Your Injury?

Proving negligence in a garbage truck accident case involves demonstrating that the responsible party failed to exercise reasonable care, leading to the accident and resulting injuries. A skilled Houston garbage truck accident lawyer with Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP can establish negligence in the following ways:

• Accident investigation: Investigating the accident scene includes gathering evidence such as photographs, video footage, and witness statements. Your attorney may also consult an accident reconstruction expert to determine how the crash happened.
• Reviewing maintenance records: Proper maintenance is essential for the safe operation of garbage trucks. Your Houston garbage truck accident lawyer will review the truck’s maintenance records to identify any potential lapses or mechanical failures that could have contributed to the crash.
• Analyzing driver logs and training records: Examining the driver’s logs could uncover a lack of compliance with hours-of-service regulations. Reviewing the driver’s training and certification records can verify whether or not they were qualified to operate the vehicle safely.

Speak With a Skilled Houston Garbage Truck Accident Lawyer to Learn More

A Houston truck accident lawyer with Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP can help you seek justice and hold those responsible for your injury accountable. We’ll do all we can to prove the defendant’s negligence and secure the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free case evaluation by contacting us online or calling (832) 402-6637.

Types Of Truck Injury Cases We Handle

Scott Armstrong

Scott Armstrong obtains remarkable results for his clients. He has successfully tried numerous cases to favorable verdicts and reached significant settlements on his clients’ behalf, recovering millions for them. Our lawyers have 25+ years of combined experience.

Scott is known for his aggressive approach to every case. He has been recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers, an accolade awarded to only 2.5% of attorneys under forty and practicing for less than ten years. Houstonia Magazine, H-Texas Magazine, and others have recognized Scott as a “top lawyer” in Houston.

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B. Farmer

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Josh Lee and the rest of the staff are all amazing. They kept me up to date and informed. I was treated like a priority every time I called, Josh even called me back on a Saturday, when the office was closed. They got me way more money than I thought even possible! I am more than satisfied and so grateful that I chose this firm. If you want a very personable, honest attorney who looks out for your best interest and gets results, call them!

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I live roughly eight hours from Armstrong Lee & Baker and communication exceeded my expectations all my needs were met at every level Mr Adam and his wonderful team guided me step by step,I definitely recommend Mr Adam if ever you need a lawyer that will fight very hard for you.He was successful with my injury case got me what I deserve and more,I am forever grateful to Mr Adam and his wonderful team God bless you all

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Recently I had the honor of being represented by The Law firm of Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP, the actual lawyer who handled my case was Mr. Clint Reed. He was very professional and understanding during this whole process. The communication was great, if I had any questions he would answer them. His knowledge of the law and his persistence to find out every detail that he could really in my opinion, went above and beyond any expectations I had. If I could give him a 10 star review I would.

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