Dump trucks can be seen throughout Philadelphia. They are used for a variety of purposes in the construction industry and are also used on farms throughout Pennsylvania. However, these massive vehicles can be very dangerous. Injuries can occur during the operation of a dump truck. A dump truck accident can also involve a traffic accident.
If you or a loved one were injured in a collision with a dump truck or by debris falling from a truck, contact the Pansini Law Group today.
What is a Dump Truck?
A dump truck is a commercial vehicle used to haul a variety of materials. Dump trucks haul debris from a construction site. They also haul materials, such as gravel, sand, and other materials. In most cases, a dump truck has a hydraulic lift that pushes the back of the truck closest to the cab up into the air. The back of the dump truck has a movable rear panel that allows the truck to “dump” its load in a specific location.
Most dump trucks are open-box trucks, meaning there is no cover on the top of the load. However, some dump trucks have an automatic cover that secures the load for transport. To help prevent materials from spilling during transit, some companies secure the load with some type of tarp.
Common Accidents Involving Dump Trucks in Philadelphia
Traffic accidents involving dump trucks are common. A dump truck collides with another vehicle or object causing an accident. Because dump trucks are heavy, large commercial vehicles, they can cause catastrophic damage to a passenger vehicle. In addition to the truck, the load the truck is carrying can also be dangerous.
Spills from dump trucks can cause accidents. Flying debris from the back of a dump truck can strike another vehicle causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. The dump boxes can accidentally open during transit, thereby causing the load to spill onto the roadway. A sudden spill can cause a multi-vehicle crash on the interstate or highway. Tons of rocks, gravel, or sand can cause substantial damage to cars following the dump truck.
There are some situations in which a person can be injured from the operation of the dump truck. The hydraulic mechanism can fail, causing an injury or damage to property. A negligent driver may dump the load without warning, causing people behind the truck to be injured or killed. Workers may be struck while crossing in front of or behind a dump truck. They may also be caught between the bed and the frame.
Who is Responsible for a Dump Truck Accident?
Several parties could be liable for a dump truck accident. On a construction site, dump trucks are used to move materials and debris around the site. The construction site owner or contractor could be liable for dump truck-related injuries on the job site.
If a dump truck is involved in a traffic accident, the truck driver, truck owner, and dump truck company may share liability for damages. When a defect in the dump truck’s design or mechanisms contributes to the cause of a dump truck injury, the truck’s manufacturer could be held liable for damages.
Do I Need a Philadelphia Dump Truck Accident Lawyer?
Yes, if you are injured in a dump truck accident, it is wise to seek the advice of an experienced dump truck accident attorney. Cases involving dump truck injuries can be very complicated. Determining who is liable for damages can be challenging. The parties involved often blame each other to avoid taking responsibility for the accident.
Sorting out the liability in a dump truck accident requires experience handling these types of construction accident cases, as well as substantial legal knowledge in several areas of law. In some cases, industry experts and accident reconstructionists may be required to assist in the dump truck accident investigation.
The Pennsylvania dump truck accident lawyers of the Pansini Law Group have the experience, resources, skills, and knowledge necessary to handle these complex personal injury claims. We also have a reputation for taking on large corporations and insurance companies as we fight to protect our clients’ best interests. Our lawyers do not shy away from a fight. They take the fight to the parties responsible for your injuries to secure the best possible recovery for your injury claim.
Learn How Our Philadelphia Dump Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help You
If you or a family member were injured by a dump truck, we want to hear from you. If you are an employee, you may have a third-party claim, in addition to any workers’ compensation benefits you might receive.
For your free consultation with a Philadelphia dump truck accident attorney, contact us online or call (215) 732-5555 now.