Bulldozers are common sights at construction zones, and we rarely get to see just how useful this type of machinery is. However, in the hands of a negligent operator this machine can be exceptionally dangerous, causing significant injuries. These injuries are often times amplified because of the size and nature of the equipment. If you have been injured as a result of a bulldozer read the following article. Our attorneys are standing by to assist you in your case. Construction accident cases are some of the most difficult to litigate and we are here to help you through the process.

Unattended Bulldozer at Construction Site

In certain cases bulldozers are left unattended or unlocked, which can be an invitation to serious injuries. These cases all generally have the same set of facts, the bulldozer was left unlocked, it was later started by a trespasser who ultimately ended up causing injury. In these types of cases the owners of the bulldozer would be considered responsible for injuries caused. Courts have reasoned that leaving such dangerous equipment unlocked is dangerous. There is always a highly foreseeable risk that this type of equipment will be tampered with. Bulldozers are considered uncommon types of machinery.

Courts understand that there is a high likelihood of tampering or theft with regards to this type of machinery. When a defendant/property owner leaves this type of equipment unlocked they are inviting danger. This is particularly true when a defendant leaves the equipment in a heavily pedestrian trafficked area. It takes investigation of the facts to determine whether a defendant was in fact negligence. In order to make this determination we will generally send our investigators to the scene of the accident in order to determine who is at fault. These investigators will look for witness statements, surveillance footage and other factors, which could assist our case.

Learn more about your legal options: Call (855) 339-8879 to speak with a representative now.

Bulldozer Rear End Accidents

In certain cases, bulldozers are negligently operated on surface streets. As a result, they can rear end other motorist causing devastating injuries. Mechanical arms on the bulldozer have powerful moving capabilities and the structure is made of pure steel. As a result, any impact to other vehicles will cause instantaneous injury. Even at low speeds this can be devastating to a passenger causing them serious harm. Bulldozers are generally not permitted to be operated on surface streets. However, construction crews can negligently operate them on such streets if the construction sites are close by. In other cases, they transport heavy loads between construction sites, which can cause an accident. These bulldozers weigh up-to 26tons which can leave the rear-ended vehicle at a total loss. Additionally, these types of accidents can happen when the bulldozer or dozer operator is not being properly guided. Particularly when they are transporting equipment or materials their line of sight or vision can be seriously impaired. This can leave other drivers in the surrounding areas as serious risk to injuries.

Common Injuries from Bulldozer Accidents

Common injuries after a bulldozer accident include the following, while this is not a complete list it does include some of the more common types of injuries which can occur.

• Traumatic brain injury
• Loss of limb or amputation
• Hip fracture
• Facial lacerations
• Neck injuries
• Back injuries
• Knee injuries
• Neurological issues or nerve damage
• Orbital or eye socket injuries
• Traumatic hand injuries
• Loss of consciousness
• Dental damage or issues
• Significant hearing loss after the accident

These are not a complete list of injuries after the accident. If you were injured seek medical attention for your injuries. Never attempt to self-diagnose yourself. It is always important to get proper treatment for injuries.

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Liability in Bulldozer Accidents

Liability for bulldozer accidents is not always clear. In such cases you will have conflicting accounts by the operators and construction crew, which will likely be different from your official story. As a result, you need to have a proper investigation done to determine who is at fault. Bulldozer operators carry commercial insurance policies which will likely pay for your injuries and damages. In such cases it is important to submit the claim for your injuries ASAP. Never wait or delay submitting your claim for damages, as this can harm your case. Insurance companies will look at gaps in treatment and submitting your case as red flags, which will be used against you in your case.

Filing a Lawsuit – Compensation for Your Injuries

Speak with an attorney immediately after your accident. Make sure you understand your rights and get the best possible medical treatment for your injuries. Do not delay getting treatment for your care. If you are not covered by your health insurance speak with your attorney about medical liens. We often work with our clients who are uninsured to make sure they get the best medical treatment with no upfront costs. This will give them access to some of the best doctors in the world who will be able to treat the injuries and help recover for their injuries. Bulldozer Defect Accidents In some cases the injuries are caused not by the negligence of the operator, but by a defective condition which existed in the product. This can occur if the hydraulic mechanisms of the bulldozer are defective, or the brakes fail. All of these are elements of the claim which our team will help evaluate. If you were injured, it is likely that the insurance company will try and reach out to you. Do not make any statements to them until speaking with a lawyer. Often times these statements will be used against you to deny liability. These statements are recorded and used to hurt your case, even if you were not at fault. Make sure to speak with a bulldozer accident attorney at Downtown LA Law Group for a free consultation.

Free Legal Consultation

Our attorneys are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. We have helped clients such as yourself seek recovery for your injuries and believe we are the best personal injury law firm in California. Call us today to see if you have a case.