Garbage trucks have unique operating patterns that can make them a significant hazard on the road. These vehicles frequently navigate tight streets, reverse without warning, and make abrupt stops, creating dangerous conditions for other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
When accidents involving garbage trucks occur, the consequences can be devastating, leading to severe injuries, property damage, and financial losses. Our garbage truck accident lawyer in Joliet can help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
At Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., our firm brings 75 years of combined experience and a record of recovering over $100 million for our clients. Call us today for a free consultation. Our Joliet truck accident lawyers are ready to help.
Common Causes of Garbage Truck Accidents
Collisions involving garbage trucks can result from a variety of factors, including driver behavior, operational hazards, and external circumstances. Our Joliet personal injury lawyers have seen the following forms of negligence cause or contribute to garbage truck collisions:
Distracted Driving
Garbage truck drivers often have to monitor onboard equipment, route schedules, or communication devices, which can divert their attention from the road. Even a brief moment of distraction can lead to a serious accident.
Driver Fatigue
Drivers of garbage trucks typically work long hours and early shifts, which can lead to fatigue. Fatigue reduces reaction times and impairs decision-making, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Unsafe Driving Practices
Garbage truck drivers may engage in reckless behaviors, such as speeding through routes, failing to yield, or ignoring traffic signals. These unsafe practices create additional risks for other road users.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Garbage trucks must be regularly inspected and maintained to operate safely. Mechanical failures, such as faulty brakes or malfunctioning lights, can lead to accidents if the vehicle is not properly maintained.
Injuries Associated With Garbage Truck Accidents
Due to the size and weight of garbage trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often result in severe injuries, many of which require extensive medical treatment and recovery time. Common injuries include:
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal damage can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Head injuries caused by the force of impact can result in long-term physical and cognitive impairments.
- Fractures and broken bones: The impact of a collision can cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis, often requiring surgery or months of recovery.
- Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs from the force of a crash may be life-threatening and require emergency care.
- Burns and lacerations: Fires, shattered glass, or sharp debris can cause severe burns or deep cuts that may require surgical intervention.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s orders after an accident, including attending follow-up appointments and completing prescribed treatments. This not only supports your recovery but also strengthens your legal claim by documenting the extent of your injuries.
How Our Joliet Garbage Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
At Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., we handle every aspect of your garbage truck accident case, saving you the time and stress of dealing with legal and insurance matters. Our process includes:
Thorough Investigation
We conduct a detailed investigation into the circumstances of your accident, gathering evidence such as:
- Police reports and accident scene photos.
- Witness statements.
- Truck driver logs and company records.
- Maintenance and inspection records for the garbage truck.
This evidence helps us determine liability and build a strong case on your behalf.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, offering settlements that don’t reflect the full scope of your losses. Our team will handle all communication with the insurance companies and work to secure a fair settlement.
If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court.
Compensation Available for Garbage Truck Accidents
Victims of garbage truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical bills: This includes emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any ongoing treatment required for your injuries.
- Lost Income: Compensation for wages lost during recovery, as well as reduced earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to work at the same level.
- Property damage: Payment for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the crash.
- Non-economic damages: Compensation for pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Contingency Fee Representation
At Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront costs or legal fees unless we recover compensation for you. This approach allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about the financial burden of hiring an attorney.
By working on contingency, we align our interests with yours and remain committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Why Choose Our Joliet Garbage Truck Accident Lawyers?
When you work with Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., you’re partnering with a team that brings 75 years of combined experience and a proven track record of recovering over $100 million for our clients.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Personalized attention: We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
- Thorough case preparation: Our team is meticulous in gathering evidence, calculating damages, and ensuring that no detail is overlooked.
- Proven results: With decades of experience and millions recovered, we have built a reputation for successfully representing accident victims.
- Accessible legal help: Our contingency fee structure ensures that you can access high-quality legal representation regardless of your financial situation.
Work With Our Garbage Truck Accident Lawyers in Joliet
If you were injured in a garbage truck accident in Joliet, you deserve to seek compensation for your losses.
At Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., we are committed to helping you recover the damages you are entitled to. Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
