Driver Injured On George Washington Bridge After Manhattan Accident Involving Falling Debris From Truck
MANHATTAN, NEW YORK (March 2, 2020) – A driver was seriously injured in an accident on the George Washington Bridge after being struck by debris that fell from a truck.
New York Police Department officials are saying that the accident took place around 10:45 a.m. For reasons that remain under investigation an object from the undercarriage of a truck came loose and went through the windshield of a car.
The object hit the driver in the head causing serious injuries. Paramedics were called to the George Washington Bridge in order to help the victim. He was taken to the hospital in order to receive treatment.
An investigation into the freak accident on the George Washington Bridge remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In Accidents On The George Washington Bridge
Accidents involving objects that fall off vehicles may seem like a freak occurrence, but they are actually very common. According to Science Daily, “More than 200,000 crashes involved debris on US roadways over the past four years, a new report announces. About two-thirds of debris-related crashes are the result of items falling from a vehicle due to improper maintenance and unsecured loads.” Many accidents are caused by drivers that swerve to avoid debris. About another two thirds are caused by vehicles directly hit from loose objects. Drivers can help prevent these types of accidents by:
- Properly maintaining their vehicles
- Tying down objects with rope, netting and steps
- Covering loads with a tarp
- Not overloading their vehicle
- Checking to make sure that loads are secure
According to Jennifer Ryan, director of state relations for AAA, “Drivers have a much bigger responsibility when it comes to preventing debris on the roads than most realize. It’s important for drivers to know that many states have hefty fines and penalties for drivers who drop items from their vehicle onto the roadway, and in some cases states impose jail time.” Truck drivers, in particular, are held to a high standard in terms of safety.
If a truck driver fails to properly maintain their vehicles the company that they work for could be held at fault. Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior companies are generally liable for the negligent conduct of their employees. This is true insofar as the employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. Courts will generally use the Benefits Test or the Characteristics Test to determine whether respondeat superior will apply. Victims of car accidents tend to suffer very serious injuries including:
-
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Head injuries
- Organ damage
- PTSD
The medical costs associated with treating injuries sustained in an accident can often be astronomical. According to Northwestern, the costs associated with treating a serious head injury can be as high as three million. Any person that is injured in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A New York Car Accident
We at Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson extend our thoughts and prayers to the victim of this accident on the George Washington Bridge. Any person that may have seen what happened should reach out to police as they continue their investigation. This was a preventable accident that should not have happened. Drivers must properly maintain their vehicles so that accidents like this can be avoided. There needs to be some accountability for this accident.
