Philadelphia Garbage Trucks Accident Lawyer

Garbage truck accidents often result in serious injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. If you were injured in a garbage truck accident, a Philadelphia garbage truck accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation from the responsible parties.

Common Causes of Garbage Truck Accidents

Garbage truck crashes may happen during regular trash collection, commercial waste disposal, or recycling pickups. Common causes include:

• Driver Inattention: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to check blind spots or back up without proper warning.
• Improper Backing or Turns: Garbage trucks frequently reverse in tight spaces or make wide turns, risking collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, or structures.
• Overloaded or Unsecured Trash: Loose debris or falling materials can strike nearby cars or people.
• Mechanical Failure: Poor maintenance may lead to brake failure, steering problems, or hydraulic system malfunctions.
• Poor Training or Supervision: Inexperienced or improperly trained drivers are more likely to cause accidents.
• Failure to Use Spotters: When required, garbage truck drivers must use spotters to assist with safe backing.
• Speeding in Residential Areas: Large trucks driving too fast in close quarters put others at risk.

These accidents often result in serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and fatalities.

Who Is Liable for Garbage Truck Accidents in Philadelphia?

Determining liability depends on who owns and operates the truck. Potentially responsible parties include:

Municipal Agencies

When city-operated trucks cause accidents, the local government may be liable for driver negligence or poor fleet maintenance.

Private Waste Companies

Many garbage trucks are owned by private contractors. These companies are responsible for ensuring proper training, maintenance, and safety compliance.

Truck Drivers

If the driver was negligent—distracted, reckless, or under the influence—they may be personally liable.

Truck Manufacturers or Maintenance Contractors

If a defect or mechanical failure contributed to the crash, third-party companies may be held responsible.

Claims against public agencies must meet Pennsylvania’s strict notice requirements, including filing a written notice within six months of the incident. Additionally, Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence rule allows victims to recover damages even if partially at fault—so long as their share of fault is not greater than 50 percent.

How a Philadelphia Garbage Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

Hiring a Philly trucking accident lawyer after a garbage truck accident is essential. Here is how a skilled Philly garbage truck accident attorney helps:

• Identify All Liable Parties: Your lawyer will determine whether a city agency, private company, or individual is responsible.
• Preserve Critical Evidence: Attorneys act quickly to secure video footage, maintenance logs, witness statements, and accident reports.
• Handle Government Claims: Your lawyer ensures the unique deadlines involved in these claims are met.
• Work With Experts: Accident reconstructionists, vehicle engineers, and safety experts may support your case.
• Negotiate With Insurance Companies: Your lawyer will assess the full extent of your damages and ensure you do not settle for less.
• Trial Experience: If settlement fails, your attorney will present a strong case in court and advocate aggressively on your behalf.

Contact Us Today

Call (215) 569-0200 or message Rosenbaum & Associates online to schedule your free consultation with a Philadelphia Garbage Truck Accident Lawyer.