Two People Injured in Staten Island Garbage Truck Accident on Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge

On October 12, 2024, a serious accident involving a garbage truck took place on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in Staten Island, New York, leaving at least two people injured. The collision occurred early in the morning, around 4:19 a.m., when a garbage truck and another vehicle were involved in a crash. The impact caused significant damage and led to a hazardous material situation, with around 50 gallons of fuel leaking from the overturned garbage truck onto the roadway.

Both injured individuals were transported to the hospital to receive necessary medical care. As of now, further details regarding the extent of their injuries remain unknown.

Liability in Staten Island Garbage Truck Accidents

Garbage trucks, due to their size and blind spots, pose unique dangers on the road. Accidents involving these vehicles can result in severe injuries and, in some cases, fatalities. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), approximately 2,500 garbage truck fatalities occur each year in the United States.

Truck drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles with extreme caution, especially considering that a fully loaded garbage truck can weigh up to 50,000 lbs. Drivers must take the following precautions to avoid accidents:

• Regularly check blind spots before making turns or lane changes.
• Ensure their vehicles are properly maintained to prevent mechanical failures.
• Slow down and maintain alertness in areas with heavy pedestrian or vehicle traffic.

Under New York Vehicle & Traffic Law § 1180, drivers are prohibited from operating their vehicles at speeds that are unsafe given the prevailing road conditions. Accidents often lead to serious injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, organ damage, and lacerations.

Potential Liability Sources in Garbage Truck Accidents

Determining liability in garbage truck accidents can involve multiple parties. If the truck driver was on duty at the time of the accident, their employer may bear responsibility for the collision under the legal principle of "vicarious liability." This doctrine holds that employers can be liable for the actions of their employees if those actions occurred within the scope of their employment.

For victims of garbage truck accidents, pursuing legal recourse through a civil claim is often the best option for seeking compensation. Compensation can cover a variety of things such as: medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to the accident.

Investigating Staten Island Garbage Truck Accidents

When accidents like this occur, thorough investigations are necessary to determine the root cause. Gathering evidence, including witness statements, vehicle maintenance records, and road conditions at the time, will help in identifying responsible parties and building a strong case for the injured individuals.

Reach Out to Oshan & Associates

If you or someone you love has been injured in a garbage truck accident, it’s important to seek legal guidance to understand your rights and options. At Oshan & Associates, our team of experienced personal injury attorneys is ready to assist you in navigating the legal process and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (206) 335-3880 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve justice and recovery.

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