Like other large trucks, dump trucks are heavy and difficult to steer, and they take a long time to come to a complete stop once a driver begins to apply the brake. On top of that, the cargo in a dump truck is often loose stone or other debris that is covered only by a tarp, if it is covered by anything at all. The combination of these factors results in dump trucks being some of the most dangerous vehicles on the road.
In fact, dump trucks have the highest number of fatalities among all kinds of commercial trucks, with about six fatalities per million miles traveled. Garbage trucks are not far behind, with about five fatalities per million miles traveled. Semi-trucks are a bit further down the list with about 3.63 fatalities per million miles traveled.
Another reason why dump trucks are so dangerous is because they have the capability to cause mass destruction when they are involved in an accident. Most dump trucks are extremely heavy and have a great mass, giving them the power to plow through several vehicles before coming to a complete stop. Dump trucks are often prone to tipping, due to their high center of gravity. This can result in additional accident victims because people driving behind the truck are forced to deal with the debris that spills onto the roadway.
One Recent Dump-Truck Accident Seriously Injured Four
Earlier this week, a dump-truck accident in Texas seriously injured four people when a dump truck collided with an on-duty ambulance. According to one local news source, the accident took place while the ambulance was transporting a patient to the hospital. Evidently, the dump truck driver failed to yield the right-of-way to the ambulance, and the two vehicles collided.
The force from the collision crushed the front-passenger side of the ambulance’s cabin. Luckily, the paramedic who would normally be riding in the passenger seat was in the rear of the ambulance taking care of the patient. Otherwise, police told reporters, the paramedic would have been crushed to death.
As is the case with many dump-truck accidents, debris was scattered across the highway and remained there for hours until crews were able to clean it up. The driver of the dump truck was cited for failing to yield to the ambulance.
Have You Been Involved in a Maryland Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been involved in a Maryland truck accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation to help you cover the costs associated with being an accident victim. This may include amounts for past medical bills, future medical expenses, lost wages, and any pain and suffering you endured as a result of the accident. Call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free consultation with a compassionate and knowledgeable attorney who can help you discuss the merits of your case. Calling is free and will not result in any obligation on your part unless and until we are able to recover compensation for you in your case.
More Blog Posts:
Bus Involved in Fatal Accident: One Dead, 13 Injured, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published November 4, 2015.
Weather Blamed for Recent Semi-Truck Accident, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published October 7, 2015.