Snowplow drivers provide our communities with a vital service. After a storm, they’re the ones tasked with allowing transportation to resume. However, there are times when snowplows are involved in accidents, and often, those accidents result in serious injuries. If you’ve been involved in a snow plow accident and sustained injuries, read on and contact a skilled Stamford, Connecticut auto accident lawyer from our firm to learn more about these accidents and how we can help you through the claims process.
What are some of the most common causes of snowplow accidents?
Snowplow accidents can occur for several reasons, though perhaps not surprisingly, they are most often caused by negligence. Snowplow drivers often work through the night and into the early hours of the morning, and as a result, are frequently operating their plows while significantly fatigued, which can lead to serious accidents occurring. Additional common causes of snowplow accidents and injuries are as follows:
- Snowplow companies hiring inexperienced or unlicensed drivers
- Failing to adequately maintain snowplows
- Dangerous road conditions (snowplows are equipped with snow treads and other special safety features, but weather hazards can still lead to crashes)
- Improper plowing technique
- Inattention or misjudgment
- Poor visibility
- Failing to account for large blind spots
- Brake failures
- Operating a plow while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Traveling at excessive speeds
If you were hurt by a snowplow driver who was doing any of the aforementioned at the time of your accident, or as a result of the condition created by the removal and/or placement of snow, there is a strong chance you will qualify for compensation. Our legal team is here to help you fight for that compensation, every step of the way.
What damages can I recover in a successful snowplow injury claim?
As long as you and your attorney can satisfy the burden of proof in your personal injury claim, you should receive compensation to help you deal with the economic and non-economic damages you’ve incurred. These can include the cost of medical bills and lost wages, pain and suffering, the loss of enjoyment of life, and more.
Who is liable for a snowplow accident in Connecticut?
This depends largely on who owned and operated the snowplow that injured you. For example, if the snowplow was owned by a privately-owned commercial company (such as a landscaping service), then you will likely sue the private company. In this case, you will have two years from the date of your accident to file your personal injury claim.
However, in Connecticut, if you were injured by a snowplow owned and operated by the state government or a municipality, you will likely file a notice of claim against the governmental agency within 90 days from the date of your accident. Failure to file your notice of claim will likely defeat your claim if the injury occurred on a road or sidewalk.
Casper & de Toledo is here to help you today. Give our firm a call or contact us online so we can get working on your case.
