Oregon Garbage Truck
Accident Lawyer

Expert Legal Support for Garbage Truck Accident Victims in Oregon

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Garbage trucks are a vital part of everyday life, ensuring that waste is properly collected and disposed of in a timely manner. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the United States produces over 292 million tons of municipal solid waste each year, or about 4.9 pounds of trash per person per day. 

While we appreciate the role that garbage trucks play in keeping our communities in Oregon clean, these large vehicles can pose dangers to drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Garbage truck accidents can lead to severe injuries and fatalities. 

Have you or a loved one been harmed in an Oregon garbage truck accident? If so, you could be entitled to recover compensation for losses you have suffered as a result. Contact Johnston Personal Injury Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation regarding your potential case. 

Why Are Oregon Garbage Truck Accidents So Dangerous?

Garbage trucks can weigh over 50,000 pounds when fully loaded, making them far heavier than the standard car or truck. 

In addition to the size of these vehicles, several factors contribute to the severity of accidents involving garbage trucks:

• Blind spots: Garbage trucks have significant blind spots. This can lead to accidents when drivers are unaware of nearby vehicles or pedestrians. 
• Frequent stops: Garbage trucks make frequent stops in residential neighborhoods. They often stop suddenly without giving sufficient warning to other drivers, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
• Maneuverability issues: Garbage trucks are not able to turn as easily as passenger vehicles, making it difficult for drivers to react quickly to road hazards or emergencies.
• Driver fatigue or inexperience: Garbage truck drivers often work long shifts or may lack sufficient training. This can lead to them making errors in judgment, slow reaction times, or poor driving practices. 

Determining Oregon Garbage Truck Accident Liability 

Determining liability following an accident involving a sanitation truck can be complicated due to the various parties that may be involved. An experienced personal injury lawyer can investigate your truck accident case and identify all parties responsible. 

Potentially liable parties may include:

Government entities: If the garbage truck is owned and operated by a municipal or government entity, filing a personal injury claim can be more complex. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the steps involved in pursuing a claim against a government entity.

The garbage truck driver: If the accident was caused by a driver’s negligence, such as drunk driving or speeding, the truck driver could be held responsible for damages.

The waste management company: The company that owns and operates the garbage truck could be liable if it fails to maintain it properly, provide sufficient training to drivers, or enforce safety regulations.

Third-party contractors: Waste management companies may hire third-party contractors to maintain their vehicles. If improper maintenance contributed to the accident, these contractors could be held accountable. 

Don’t miss out on these common personal injury mistakes.

Get the legal counsel you need to guide you through the process of filing an injury claim.

Compensation Available in Oregon Truck Accident Cases

If you have been a victim of an accident involving a sanitation truck, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses: You can pursue compensation for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitations, and ongoing medical care.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and loss of future earning capacity.
• Property damage: Collisions with commercial vehicles can cause significant property damage. You may be entitled to reimbursement for damage to your vehicle or other personal property.
• Pain and suffering: These types of damages compensate for the physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life caused by your injuries.
• Wrongful death: If you have suffered the tragic loss of a loved one in an accident with a commercial vehicle, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support.

Why Hire an Oregon Garbage Truck Accident Lawyer

Hiring a personal injury attorney with experience in handling truck accident claims can make a significant difference in your case. 

Truck accident lawyers can provide invaluable assistance in the following areas:

• Gathering evidence: Your personal injury lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the garbage truck accident and identify who is liable. This could involve getting a copy of the police report, taking witness statements, reviewing maintenance logs, and more.
• Assessing the value of your case: A lawyer can calculate the full extent of your losses, including both economic and non-economic damages.
• Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts to accident victims, offering low settlements or denying truck accident claims altogether. Your lawyer will handle negotiations with the insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. 
• Filing a personal injury lawsuit: Most truck accident cases are settled through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit and eventually perhaps represent you in court. 

Choosing the Right Oregon Garbage Truck Accident Attorney

Choosing the right lawyer to represent you in a garbage truck accident case is essential to achieving a favorable outcome. 

Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

Communication: Choose a lawyer who takes the time to explain the legal process, answer your questions, and offer compassionate support.

Experience in garbage truck accident cases: Search for a personal injury lawyer who has successfully handled cases involving trucks, particularly large vehicles like garbage trucks.

Resources for investigation: You want a law firm that has the resources needed to conduct a thorough investigation, including access to accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and investigators.

Client reviews and testimonials: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the lawyer’s reputation and client satisfaction.