With the holiday season now in full swing, many Arizona families are finding themselves taking to the road more frequently. Whether to go shopping or visit family and friends, many are sure to rack up the miles this season. It is, of course, critically important to ensure that one drives as safely as possible, but not everyone heeds this advice. Many motorists are distracted or intoxicated, which significantly increases the risk that they will cause an injurious or deadly accident.
One of these wrecks occurred recently in Phoenix, leaving three children injured. According to reports, the crash happened when a garbage truck rear-ended a vehicle in front of it as that vehicle was waiting to turn left. The garbage truck then crossed into oncoming traffic and hit a SUV before slamming into two parked vehicles. The children in that SUV, an eight-year-old, a seven-year-old, and an 11-month-old, were taken to the hospital for medical treatment. So, too, was the 30-year-old driver of that SUV. Thankfully, none of the injuries are considered life-threatening.
Local police quickly arrived on the scene and observed the garbage truck driver. The authorities state that there was no indication that the driver suffered from any type of impairment. The accident’s exact cause, therefore, remains under investigation. However, given the facts of this wreck there are essentially two possible explanation. The first is that the garbage truck driver was distracted when the wreck occurred. The second explanation is that there was a mechanical issue with the truck that disallowed the driver from safely bringing it to a stop.
Either way, the driver and possibly his or her employer may be to blame for the accident. This means that these parties may be held accountable for any losses suffered by the victims. These damages may include medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. Hopefully, the vast majority of Phoenix residents will avoid this type of situation this holiday season, but those who do find themselves injured by the negligence of another may want to discuss the matter with a personal injury attorney.
