Because dump trucks are so large, when they get into an accident, there is a greater risk of injury to the people in the smaller vehicles involved. A dump truck may be loaded down with sand, rock, garbage, or some other loose material that can shift and cause a dangerous situation. Sometimes, the latch on the back of the truck can fail, causing the cargo to spill onto the road. There are different safety regulations applied to dump trucks than other big trucks, and the drivers need to be extra careful whenever they are operating the truck.
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a dump truck accident in Westlake Village, you may be able to recover your losses. Contact an experienced semi-truck crash attorney today for help navigating the legal aftermath of your collision.
Determining Fault for a Dump Truck Wreck
When someone else’s negligence causes a dump truck wreck, they could be held liable. However, there must be proof that the person or entity was negligent. A lawyer could help gather evidence and determine who is at fault for a dump truck crash in Westlake Village. Potentially responsible parties include:
- The driver of the dump truck
- The driver’s employer
- The manufacturer of a faulty part on the truck
- The owner of the dump truck, whether private or public
- The person or entity responsible for maintaining the dump truck
The driver may be liable if they were driving too fast for conditions or failing to pay attention when backing up the dump truck. If the driver had a history of negligent driving, and the truck driver’s employer hired them anyway without additional training, then some of the liability could fall on the employer.
If the dump truck company failed to keep the truck well-maintained, and the accident resulted from the truck’s failure, the company may be liable. Similarly, if a specific part of the dump truck fails—such as the hydraulic component that raises and lowers the back of the truck—then the manufacturer may be legally responsible.
Compensation for Losses in a Dump Truck Accident
A lawyer who has experience with Westlake Village dump truck accidents could also help determine how much compensation is owed to an injured person. A proactive attorney could calculate all available economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Property damage
- Medical expenses
- Ongoing medical treatments
- Lost wages
- Loss of the ability to earn wages in the future
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Disfigurement
- Emotional anguish
- Loss of the enjoyment of life
Because dump truck accidents often result in severe injuries or even death, there could be a significant settlement.
Call a Westlake Village Dump Truck Crash Attorney Today
The sooner you contact an attorney at Block LLP about your accident, the sooner they can get to work investigating and building a strong case against the at-fault person or entity. Our lawyers have experience seeking compensation for those injured in dump truck accidents in Westlake Village.
Call today to schedule a free consultation with one of our legal professionals and get started on your claim.