Dump Truck Accidents in Richmond

Dump trucks are a common sight around construction sites and road projects. These massive vehicles usually carry heavy loads of rocks, gravel, and other loose objects. Even when properly secured, the loose items inside can fly out of the truck bed and strike other vehicles. The trucks themselves have massive blind spots, making them difficult to maneuver in traffic.

Victims of dump truck accidents in Richmond should seek legal advice on the best way to proceed. There may be more than one party involved, and you could have several causes of action to recover compensation. The truck accident attorneys at Latham & Martin could explain what you need to do after a dump truck crash to obtain fair compensation for your injuries.

What Are the Common Causes of Dump Truck Accidents?

Dump trucks present many hazards to other drivers. The cab sits high off the road, impacting visibility. The position of the dump bed can make it nearly impossible for the driver to see behind the vehicle.

Other issues include:

• Unsecured or improperly loaded cargo: If loads are not secured properly, debris can fly out of the bed and cause accidents
• Equipment failure: In addition to the usual maintenance issues, dump trucks need to keep their dump beds, hydraulics, and related parts in good condition
• Distracted drivers: Drivers who are texting or talking on a cellphone are a hazard, no matter what kind of vehicle they drive
• Lack of training: Drivers must know how to handle the truck and the dump bed, and the company is responsible for hiring trained drivers

After a Richmond dump truck crash, you should collect evidence demonstrating the cause of the accident, as this will help you recover damages in an insurance claim.

Who Is Liable in a Dump Truck Wreck?

In any commercial vehicle accident, liability does not stop with the driver of the truck. The owner of the trucking company, the shipping company, and the maintenance yard can all share some liability for the accident.

A Richmond dump truck collision case may also involve other entities. These could include:

• The construction company that hired or contracted with the driver or the dump truck company
• The loading dock that secured the truck’s load, if they failed to properly load, balance, or secure the cargo
• Inspectors or managers responsible for passing the load out of the dock
• Manufacturers, if equipment failure led to the accident

In any commercial vehicle accident, the insurance companies involved will try to pass the liability around, insisting that their insured entity is not responsible for your injuries. You need a skilled attorney to help you get the compensation you deserve.

Get Legal Help From a Richmond Dump Truck Crash Attorney

After dump truck accidents in Richmond, the attorneys at Latham & Martin could give you the advice you need to prove who is responsible for your injuries. We are prepared to review your case and help you gather the evidence you need to make your claim. If more than one company is responsible, we could guide you through filing multiple insurance claims to receive full compensation from everyone liable in your case.

Call our office today for a free and confidential consultation on your case.