Operating snowplows is no easy feat. Their size and weight make them difficult to handle, and their plows are often wider than a traffic lane, adding to the complexity of navigating the roads. Unfortunately, these disadvantages can lead to a crash with other, smaller vehicles.
You have the right to pursue compensation when you or your loved one is injured in a snowplow accident in Bangor. Speak with an experienced truck collision attorney to explore your options.
How to Drive Safely Around Snowplows
Failing to follow basic safety guidelines when driving near snowplows in Bangor dramatically increases the risk of a wreck. Some fundamental rules can help drivers avoid collisions.
Avoid passing snowplows or driving in front of them. Passing on the right is especially risky—snowplow operators typically push snow to that side. If a vehicle ends up in a snowplow’s blind spot, it could lead to an accident where the car is forced into a snowbank.
Operators frequently work in groups of two or more to clear an area. Avoiding driving between two plows is crucial. The drivers are not anticipating other vehicles, and they have limited visibility. The chance of getting caught between two plows is significant. Given the sheer size of the vehicles involved, these accidents almost always lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
Common Injuries From Snowplow Crashes
An individual can be injured in numerous ways in a snowplow wreck in Bangor. Some of the most common injuries include the following:
- Bruising and superficial wounds
- Deep cuts and lacerations
- Broken bones and fractures
- Whiplash
- Moderate to severe burns
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Paralysis
- Death
A seasoned personal injury attorney can help build a solid case for compensation in the aftermath of an accident. Call Gideon Asen LLC today to schedule an initial consultation.
When a Snowplow Collision Leads to a Fatality
When a person is killed in a snowplow accident, their surviving family can pursue a wrongful death claim on their behalf. A Bangor lawyer who handles snowplow crash cases can explain this process in more detail.
Do Snowplow Operators Have Limited Liability Under The Maine Tort Claims Act?
Maine Revised Statutes Annotated Title 14 § 741, known as the Maine Tort Claims Act, restricts the tort liability of state and local governments. The law has an exception for heavy machinery, allowing people to recover from injuries but capping damages at $400,000.
While this may seem like a considerable amount, in a severe accident, it will not fully cover a person’s economic losses. Many municipalities waive this cap by obtaining insurance policies exceeding the $400,000 limit.
Understanding Modified Comparative Fault
Maine follows a modified comparative negligence system—allowing drivers to seek compensation for their injuries from other responsible parties, even if they are partially at fault. However, if a driver is 50 percent or more responsible for the collision, they cannot recover damages from the other parties involved.
Consult an Attorney About Snowplow Accidents in Bangor
Bangor residents depend on snowplow operators to keep roads clear during winter. However, these essential workers must operate carefully and be held accountable for any harm they cause.
When you are injured in snowplow accidents in Bangor, consult with a lawyer from Gideon Asen, LLC, to explore your options for compensation. Schedule a consultation with our dedicated legal team today.
