Man Killed In Garbage Truck Accident

In a crash involving a garbage truck and a motorcycle, the garbage truck is always going to win. It’s a sad fact of life and unfortunately it rang true for a man from Lutz. He was recently killed in a collision with a garbage truck.

The fatal crash happened on the morning of May 6 in Pasco County. A garbage truck operated by Waste Management was heading westbound on State Road 54. The truck was in the left turn lane, while a motorcycle ridden by a 51-year-old Lutz man was traveling eastbound.

As the garbage truck made a left turn at the intersection of Monmouth Drive, the two vehicles collided. The motorcyclist died from his injuries. The garbage truck driver, a 35-year-old man from Spring Hill, was not injured in the crash. The crash closed the eastbound lanes of State Road 54 for some time, but they later reopened.

Dangers of Garbage Trucks

Garbage trucks can weigh up to 25 tons when fully loaded. Compare this to the average weight of a motorcycle, which is 900 pounds, and you can see the immense size difference. A collision of this sort can easily cause catastrophic injuries and even death.

Garbage trucks frequently get into accidents, just like other vehicles. Here are some reasons why:

• Driver error. Just like with any vehicle, accidents can happen due to human error. This includes distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, and failure to obey traffic laws.
• Blind spots. Garbage trucks have large blind spots due to their size and design. This can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles, leading to accidents during turns or lane changes.
• Backing up. Garbage trucks often need to reverse into tight spaces to collect garbage. This maneuver can be hazardous, especially if the driver doesn’t have a clear view of the surroundings or if pedestrians or vehicles are nearby.
• Mechanical failures. Garbage trucks can experience mechanical issues such as brake failure, tire blowouts, or steering problems, which can lead to accidents.
• Improperly secured loads. If the garbage isn’t properly secured or the truck’s compactor malfunctions, it can lead to debris falling onto the road, creating hazards for other drivers.
• Poor weather conditions. Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or ice can make driving conditions hazardous for garbage truck drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Inadequate training. Garbage truck drivers may not be trained in safety procedures and operating the vehicle in various conditions, which can contribute to accidents.
• Negligent maintenance. Lack of proper maintenance can lead to equipment failures or malfunctions, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Seek Help for Your Truck Accident Case

Trucks are large, heavy vehicles that can cause significant damage and even fatalities in a crash. It is important to stay safe when you see these vehicles on the road.

The Dade City & Zephyrhills truck accident attorneys from Madonna Law Group can assist you. We know what it takes to successfully pursue a trucking accident case. We understand the importance of conducting a thorough investigation of the accident. To schedule a consultation,  call (800) 557-0411 or fill out the online form.

Source:

fox13news.com/news/lutz-man-killed-in-pasco-county-crash-involving-garbage-truck