Flatbed Tow Trucks and the Devastating Injuries They Cause
Flatbed tow trucks are very large and powerful vehicles. They are designed to transport other vehicles when they break down or become damaged in an accident and are rendered inoperable. Flatbed tow trucks are designed for a car or other vehicle to sit on the flatbed in the back of the truck. This is unlike other tow trucks, where the vehicle sits at an angle. While flatbed tow trucks are a necessary part of our roadways, they do pose danger to other drivers. Below, our San Antonio company vehicle accident lawyer explains more.
Why are Flatbed Tow Trucks Dangerous?
Flatbed tow trucks pose many risks to other drivers. The back of these vehicles is open-air, meaning they do not have a back or sides. If there are loose parts of the vehicle being transported, the open-air structure means they can become dislodged and crash into nearby vehicles. This debris can also fall onto the road, which may also cause a crash.
There is also a significant amount of work required to elevate and move an inoperable vehicle onto the back of a flatbed truck. This creates the risk of chains becoming loose or snapping, which could also cause damage to other vehicles.
In some instances, flatbed tow trucks are used to carry other types of cargo, such as construction equipment or logs. These oversized items can extend beyond the edge of the flatbed, creating an obstruction for other motorists. When a load does not properly fit onto a flatbed, it is also at greater risk of becoming loose and falling off.
Injuries from Flatbed Trucks are Very Serious
Just like other large and heavy vehicles, flatbed tow trucks can cause some of the most severe injuries. The most common of these include:
- Head trauma, which can result in neurological damage
- Shattered or broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
- Damage to the spine, including slipped discs (herniated discs or bulging discs)
- Deep lacerations and tissue damage
- Amputations
- Burns
- Chronic pain
The above injuries are not only very painful, but they are also extremely costly to treat. If you have been hurt in a crash involving a flatbed tow truck, you can file a claim against the negligent party. The compensation you receive can help cover your medical bills, lost wages if you cannot return to work right away, and your pain and suffering. Obtaining a fair settlement is not always easy, particularly when you have to go up against the trucking company. Our experienced attorney can handle the legal details of your claim so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
Call Our Company Vehicle Accident Lawyer in San Antonio for a Free Consultation
Accidents involving flatbed tow trucks are very serious. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio company vehicle accident lawyer can determine who caused your crash and hold them responsible for paying the maximum damages you are entitled to. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or chat with us online to request a free review of your case and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
law.cornell.edu/wex/negligence
