Many people take for granted how challenging snowplow operators’ jobs are. They travel on unsalted and unsanded roads in low visibility to help keep the streets clear.
Snowplows are heavy to maneuver, and their plows may be wider than a lane of traffic, making navigation complex. While collisions with these vehicles are uncommon, when they do happen, they often result in severe injuries to those involved.
When you are hurt in a snowplow accident in Auburn, an experienced legal professional can review the circumstances of your case and provide more information about pursuing compensation. Schedule an initial consultation with one of our knowledgeable car collision attorneys today to learn more.
Practicing Safe Driving Around Snowplows
Every motorist should follow certain practices near a snowplow on the road. Drivers should never pass snowplows or drive in front of them. Front and side visibility is always limited in big trucks, especially in snowy conditions. Passing to the right of a snowplow is particularly dangerous since operators usually push the snow off to that side.
Snowplow operators often travel in groups known as plow lines, and it is vital not to get between two plows. Both operators have limited visibility, which increases the odds of getting crushed between them. Unfortunately, snowplow wrecks in Lewiston-Auburn almost always result in severe injuries or fatalities.
Common Types of Injuries
Snowplow crashes in Auburn can result in several types of injuries to those involved, especially passenger vehicle drivers, including:
- Cuts and lacerations
- Broken bones and fractures
- Crushing injuries
- Whiplash
- Burns
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord damage
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Death
When a snowplow wreck results in a fatality, a lawyer can help loved ones of the deceased file a wrongful death lawsuit. This can cover damages associated with funeral costs, emotional trauma, and loss of consortium.
Determining Percentage of Fault
Maine is a modified comparative negligence state. Drivers can recover from other wrongdoers for their injuries, even if they share responsibility for the accident. However, if a driver has 50 percent or more of the liability for a wreck, they cannot recover from the other parties.
Limited Liability Under The Tort Claims Act
Maine Revised Statutes Annotated Title 14 § 741, the Maine Tort Claims Act (Act) limits tort liability for state and local government entities. The law provides a few exceptions, including the operation of motor vehicles like snowplows. While the government is not immune from suit for these injuries, damages are capped at $400,000, which may not be enough to cover someone’s economic damages.
Many municipal governments voluntarily waive that limit by obtaining insurance policies that exceed the $400,000 limit. The amount of potential damages available will depend not only on the circumstances of the case but also on whether the city has insurance and the policy limits. Legal counsel can review a client’s case details and help obtain compensation on their behalf.
Connect With a Compassionate Attorney About Snowplow Accidents in Auburn
The Lewiston-Auburn area relies on snowplows to keep the streets running in the winter. These operators perform a necessary function, but that does not mean they should be free from responsibility for the harm they cause.
If you are injured in a snowplow accident in Auburn, schedule a consultation with our diligent personal injury attorneys at Gideon Asen, LLC to learn about potential compensation for your claim.
