Sanitation Truck Accident Lawyers: What to Do if You Get Injured

We depend on the work of sanitation trucks that keep our cities and neighborhoods clean. 

However, due to their size, weight, and operational nature, these vehicles can pose significant dangers on the road. Accidents involving sanitation trucks can lead to severe injuries, property damage, and even fatalities.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a sanitation truck accident, Morgan & Morgan can help. Below we will walk you through the causes of sanitation truck accidents, the parties that may be liable, and how to navigate the process of filing a claim. When you’re ready to take the first step toward justice, you can contact us for a free case evaluation.

What Makes Sanitation Trucks Dangerous?

Sanitation trucks differ from regular passenger vehicles in several ways that contribute to their potential to cause accidents:

Size and Weight

These vehicles are much larger and heavier than standard cars, making it harder to stop quickly or maneuver in emergencies.

Frequent Stops

Sanitation trucks often make frequent, unpredictable stops to pick up waste, creating hazards for drivers and pedestrians who may not anticipate their movements.

Limited Visibility

Due to their height and design, sanitation trucks have significant blind spots, increasing the risk of collisions with other vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians.

Hazardous Operation Times

Sanitation trucks often operate during early morning hours or at night, when visibility is lower and drivers may be less alert.

Mechanical Complexities

Sanitation trucks use heavy machinery, such as hydraulic lifts, which can malfunction and cause injuries to workers or bystanders.

Common Causes of Sanitation Truck Accidents

Sanitation truck accidents can occur for various reasons, often involving a combination of human error, mechanical failure, and environmental factors. Common causes include:

Driver Negligence

Distracted Driving: A sanitation truck driver using a phone or other devices can easily cause an accident.

Speeding or Reckless Driving: Operating such a large vehicle at high speeds can lead to catastrophic collisions.

Impairment: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol significantly increases the likelihood of accidents.

Poor Maintenance

Faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or malfunctioning hydraulic systems can cause accidents if trucks are not regularly inspected and maintained.

Improper Loading

Overloaded or improperly balanced waste can make sanitation trucks unstable, leading to rollovers or spilled debris on the road.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Hazards

Pedestrians and cyclists are at higher risk due to the trucks’ frequent stops and large blind spots.

Third-Party Negligence

Other drivers on the road may contribute to sanitation truck accidents through reckless or negligent behavior.

Common Injuries From Sanitation Truck Accidents

Accidents involving sanitation trucks often result in severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Caused by direct impact or whiplash.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Resulting in partial or total paralysis.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Especially in high-impact collisions.
• Internal Injuries: Such as organ damage or internal bleeding.
• Lacerations and Burns: Caused by broken glass, debris, or contact with hydraulic systems.
• Fatalities: In the most severe cases, sanitation truck accidents can result in loss of life.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Sanitation Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a sanitation truck accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Potentially liable parties include:

Sanitation Truck Driver

If the driver acted negligently—by speeding, driving while distracted, or failing to follow traffic laws—they may be held responsible.

Municipalities or Private Companies

Sanitation services are often operated by city governments or private companies. If these entities fail to hire qualified drivers, provide proper training, or maintain their vehicles, they can be held liable for accidents.

Vehicle Manufacturers

If a mechanical defect in the sanitation truck contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the faulty part or vehicle may be liable.

Third Parties

Other motorists or pedestrians who act negligently and contribute to the accident may also share liability.

Steps to Take After a Sanitation Truck Accident

Taking the right steps after an accident can significantly affect your ability to claim compensation. Here’s what to do:

1. Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

2. Call the Police

Report the accident to law enforcement. The police report will serve as an essential piece of evidence for your claim.

3. Document the Scene

Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including the sanitation truck, your vehicle, injuries, road conditions, and any debris.

4. Gather Witness Information

Collect the names and contact details of witnesses who can provide statements about the accident.

5. Contact Morgan & Morgan

An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the claims process and ensure your rights are protected.

Types of Compensation Available for Sanitation Truck Accidents

Victims of sanitation truck accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the specifics of their case. These include:

Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses: Covers hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation costs.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to time off work or long-term disability.
• Property Damage: Covers repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other personal property.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities you previously participated in.

Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.

How to Prove Negligence in a Sanitation Truck Accident

To successfully claim compensation, you must prove that the at-fault party was negligent and that their actions directly caused your injuries. This involves demonstrating the following elements:

• Duty of Care: The responsible party had a legal obligation to act in a reasonably safe manner.
• Breach of Duty: The responsible party failed to meet this obligation through negligent actions or omissions.
• Causation: The breach of duty directly caused the accident and your injuries.
• Damages: You suffered losses as a result of the accident, such as medical expenses or lost wages.

An attorney can help gather evidence to establish these elements, such as:

• Police and accident reports
• Maintenance records for the sanitation truck
• Witness statements
• Video footage from traffic or surveillance cameras

How Morgan & Morgan Can Help

Sanitation truck accident claims are often complex, often involving multiple parties and a complicated legal landscape. 

When you work with Morgan & Morgan, however, you have the nation’s largest personal injury law firm behind you. Our attorneys can collect and analyze evidence to build a strong case and can determine all responsible parties, ensuring you pursue maximum compensation.

Insurers often try to minimize payouts; an attorney at Morgan & Morgan can negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement. If negotiations fail, your attorney can represent you in court to fight for your rights.

It’s free and easy to get started—contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue the city if a municipal sanitation truck caused the accident?

Yes, you can file a claim against a city or government entity if their negligence contributed to the accident. However, government claims often have stricter filing deadlines and procedures, so consulting an attorney quickly is essential.

How long do I have to file a claim?

The amount of time you have to file a personal injury claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state and the specifics of your case. However, some exceptions may apply, such as in cases involving minors, government entities, or when the injury wasn’t discovered right away.

It's important to file your claim as soon as possible to preserve your legal rights. Failing to file within the statute of limitations could result in your case being dismissed, meaning you may lose the opportunity to recover compensation for your injuries.

Since deadlines can vary by state and situation, it's best to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the incident to understand the specific timeline for your case. An attorney can help ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Many states follow comparative negligence laws, allowing you to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault, though your award may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

Can passengers in the sanitation truck file a claim?

Yes, sanitation truck employees or passengers injured on the job due to negligence may also have grounds to file a workers’ comp or personal injury claim. An experienced attorney can advise you on your next best steps and what your legal options are.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation and take the first step toward justice.