A woman recently died in the Spokane area after the utility vehicle she was driving around a curve rolled over. Law enforcement later pronounced the woman dead at the scene of the accident. A passenger in the vehicle also experienced minor injuries.

Utility trucks, or “bucket trucks” as they are sometimes called, refer to vehicles equipped with a boom with a bucket. These vehicles are frequently used by cable, electric, and telephone workers to repair wires. Sometimes, these trucks also used to reach buildings and signs that are located at high elevations. Despite their advantages, utility trucks can cause deadly accidents. If you have been injured in a utility truck accident, one of the best steps that you can take is to retain the assistance of an experienced accident lawyer.

How do Utility Truck Accidents Occur?

There are several common causes of utility truck accidents, which include:

• The size and weight of utility trucks. The increased size and weight of utility trucks make them more difficult to navigate.
• Inexperienced drivers. Inexperienced drivers commonly operate utility trucks because some companies rent these trucks out for single jobs. Without adequate training on how to safely navigate the vehicle, accidents are common. Utility trucks require specific training to use safely, and despite what many people think, are much more difficult to drive than pickup trucks.
• Not properly warning passing motorists. Utility trucks are often stopped at the side of the road. If passing motorists do not receive adequate warnings about the bucket truck's location, collisions are common.
• Poor maintenance. Utility trucks require routine inspection and maintenance to make sure that they are capable of being safely operated. Failure to make sure that a vehicle adheres to these standards can result in deadly accidents.
• Defective parts. Sometimes, utility vehicle accidents occur due to defective parts in vehicles. These defects can be the responsibility of a designer or manufacturer who failed to adhere to safety standards.

Liability in Utility Truck Accidents

Utility trucks are not required to meet the same state and federal standards that commercial vehicles are, but the drivers of these vehicles still must follow all of the posted signs on the road. Utility trucks also must be routinely inspected and adequately maintained to avoid accidents.

When accidents occur involving utility trucks, the resulting litigation is often complex. One reason for this is that there are often several parties involved including utility truck drivers, maintenance companies, utility truck companies, employers, and utility truck owners. If a lawsuit is initiated against a government agency, many complex laws that apply. Not to mention, establishing liability after a utility truck accident is often challenging. As a result, it is a wise idea following a utility truck accident to retain the assistance of an experienced truck accident lawyer. 

Speak with an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer

Following an accident, many victims find themselves facing many complications that make it difficult to return to how things were before the collision. Fortunately, the experienced legal counsel at West Law Office can help. 

During a free consultation, we will review the facts of your case and determine your best options to obtain compensation.