Although Virginia winters are certainly not as harsh as other parts of the country, there are winter days when the state sees a fair amount of snow. When the white stuff starts to fall, the snowplow trucks descend on Virginia roads. And just like any type of truck accident, those involving snowplow trucks can be catastrophic due to the size of these trucks, which can weigh up to 50,000 pounds. Many snowplow truck crashes result in fatalities.
Working Conditions
Driving a vehicle in snow can be difficult, so one can only imagine how difficult it can be for snowplow drivers to operate their trucks. Trying to maneuver a massive truck through ice and snow-covered roads takes specific skill and alertness. Drivers are also often required to work long hours during snowstorms. One of the dangers for snowplow drivers is driver fatigue, whether the driver works for a private company, the state, or a municipality. There are also the legitimate dangers of drivers who are distracted or under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Another dangerous hazard is trucks that are not being properly inspected and maintained. A poorly maintained snowplow truck can break down, causing accidents and injuries for the driver, other motorists, or pedestrians. Other common causes of snowplow accidents include inadequate driver training, road hazards, and low visibility during storms.
Who Is Liable in a Snowplow Accident?
When a person is injured in a snowplow accident, it is important to determine who is liable for the crash in order for the victim to pursue damages against that party or parties. This could include:
- The snowplow driver
- The company that owns the snowplow truck
- The government entity (state, city, town, etc.) that manages the snowplow program
- The company that is in charge of maintaining and repairing the truck
- The company that designs or manufactured the truck
A Virginia truck accident attorney can help the victim or their family determine which party is the one who is liable for the crash and the resulting injuries and losses. Just as with any type of personal injury case, there are certain damages that victims can pursue in a snowplow accident lawsuit. Some of the more common damages include:
- Past, ongoing, and future medical expenses. This also includes ambulance costs, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and more.
- Lost wages from being unable to work while recovering. If a victim is left with long-term or permanent disability and cannot return to work, they may be able to pursue damages for lost future income.
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Scarring
- Disfigurement
- Permanent disability
Contact a Virginia Personal Injury Attorney Today
Snowplow truck accidents can be complex, especially if the truck driver works for a government entity. The process for filing a personal injury claim against the government is much different than filing against a private company. Having a seasoned Virginia truck accident attorney advocating for you can greatly improve your chances of a successful and fair outcome to your case.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a snowplow truck accident or any type of truck accident, call Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to schedule a free case evaluation and find out what legal recourse you may have. Our Virginia personal injury law firm has more than three decades of experience fighting for injured clients and their families, negotiating personal injury insurance settlements, and obtaining jury awards, getting them the financial compensation they deserve.
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