Garbage Truck Accident Lawyer in Oklahoma City

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  • Call 405-232-1212 now or fill out the form above to receive a free confidential consultation.

Garbage Truck Accident Lawyers in Oklahoma City

Legal representation after you’re injured in a garbage truck accident in Oklahoma

Garbage trucks help keep Oklahoma City clean and running smoothly. These large vehicles travel throughout residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and even busy highways daily to collect and haul away waste. Accidents involving these heavy vehicles can lead to devastating injuries and life-altering consequences.

At Cunningham & Mears, our Oklahoma City garbage truck accident lawyers are here to help. We can answer all your questions and advise you of your legal rights if you’re injured in a garbage truck accident. Get in touch with us today.

How can we help?

Free Case Evaluation

  • Call 405-232-1212 now or fill out the form above to receive a free confidential consultation.

Why are Oklahoma City garbage truck accidents so common?

Oklahoma City’s growing population and urban sprawl mean that more waste collection is needed than ever before. This increased demand places pressure on sanitation companies and their drivers, sometimes leading to hazardous conditions on the road. Following are some common reasons as to why garbage truck accidents happen:

  • Garbage trucks are large vehicles with large blind spots, making it difficult for drivers to see smaller cars, pedestrians, or cyclists around them. This limited visibility can contribute to sideswipe and back-over accidents.
  • Garbage trucks must frequently start and stop to collect trash. These sudden stops can catch nearby drivers off guard, leading to rear-end collisions.
  • Garbage truck drivers often work long hours with tight schedules. Fatigue and tiredness can impair reaction time and decision-making, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
  • Garbage trucks are heavy-duty vehicles that endure significant wear and tear. Without proper maintenance, issues like tire blowouts, brake failures, or engine malfunctions can create dangerous situations.
  • Garbage truck drivers can easily become distracted, when communicating with dispatch, using a GPS, or managing onboard equipment. Even just a momentary lapse in focus can result in a serious accident.

What are some common types of Oklahoma City garbage truck accidents?

Some of the most common types of garbage truck accidents in Oklahoma City include:

  • Garbage trucks have a higher center of gravity, which makes them prone to rollovers, especially during sharp turns or uneven roadways. A rollover can block multiple lanes of traffic and cause catastrophic injuries to everyone involved.
  • Vehicles that follow too closely behind garbage trucks are at risk for rear-end collisions. These accidents are especially risky for smaller cars, which may not be able to withstand the impact of a heavy truck.
  • In residential neighborhoods and urban areas, garbage trucks often operate close to pedestrians and cyclists. A small miscalculation or missed blind spot can lead to devastating injuries.
  • Improperly secured loads or mechanical failures can cause garbage or equipment to fall off the truck, creating hazards for other road users.
  • Because garbage trucks frequently back up during their routes, back-over accidents can happen if the driver fails to notice someone behind the vehicle.

Who is liable in a garbage truck accident?

It can be complicated to determine liability in a garbage truck accident. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may share responsibility. These parties can include:

  • If the driver acted in a negligent manner, like speeding or driving while distracted, they might be held liable.
  • The sanitation company could be held responsible for their drivers’ actions, especially if they failed to provide proper training or ignored maintenance issues.
  • If a third party was responsible for vehicle maintenance or route planning, they might share liability.
  • In cases involving municipal sanitation trucks, the city government might be partially liable if negligence played a role in the accident.

The experienced Oklahoma City garbage truck accident lawyers at Cunningham & Mears can help untangle the details and determine who is responsible for your injuries and losses.

What should I do if I’m in a garbage truck accident in Oklahoma City?

Being involved in an accident with a garbage truck can be frightening – but taking the right steps can make a big difference in protecting your rights and building a strong case. Here’s what to do:

  • Your health should always come first. Even if your injuries seem minor, you should get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately.
  • Call the police. The police report will be an essential piece of evidence in your case. Be sure to provide accurate information about what happened but remember to avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
  • Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information.
  • Garbage truck accidents often involve large companies and government entities with powerful legal teams. Get an experienced attorney on your side to ensure your rights are protected and you have someone fighting for the compensation to which you’re entitled.

How can your Oklahoma City garbage truck accident lawyers help with my case?

Dealing with the aftermath of a garbage truck accident can be challenging, especially when you’re trying to deal with injuries, insurance companies, and complicated legal issues. Our dedicated Oklahoma City garbage truck attorneys can help:

  • We’ll gather all the evidence necessary to build a strong case, including police reports, witness statements, and vehicle maintenance records.
  • Garbage truck collisions often involve multiple parties. We identify who is responsible and ensure they’re held accountable for their negligence.
  • Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We cn your behalf to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
  • If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we are always prepared to take your case to trial to fight for the compensation you deserve.
  • We handle the legal complexities of your case so you can focus on healing from your injuries and moving forward with your life.

How can I prevent a garbage truck accident?

We know it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, but taking precautions can reduce the likelihood of garbage truck accidents. Here are a few tips:

  • Give garbage trucks plenty of space. These vehicles are large and can be unpredictable, so it’s best to keep a safe distance.
  • Stay out of blind spots – if you can’t see the driver in their mirrors, they likely can’t see you either.
  • Garbage trucks move slowly and make frequent stops. Avoid aggressive driving around them.
  • Always be cautious around garbage trucks back up, as their visibility is limited.
Personal Injury Lawyers in OKC

Do you have an Oklahoma City garbage truck accident lawyer near me?

Cunningham & Mears has two offices located in Oklahoma City. Our first is located at 5104 N Francis Ave., Suite 102, Oklahoma City, located just 4 mins drive from Penn Square Mall with plenty of car parking and easy access to the office. Our second is located at 9428 Westgate, Suite 102B, in the Brookhaven West part of Oklahoma City, just a short walk from Resurrection Cemetery and off the Northwest Expressway. We do see clients at their homes or a hospital if they are ill or immobile.

Oklahoma City garbage truck accident lawyers working for you

If you or someone you love has been injured in a garbage truck accident in Oklahoma City, don’t face the aftermath alone. These cases can be complex, involving large companies or government entities with their own legal teams. The experienced Oklahoma City garbage truck accident attorneys at Cunningham & Mears are here to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact our offices today for a free consultation, and let’s take the first step toward securing your future and holding those responsible accountable. To learn more, call our offices or fill out our contact form.

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