Joseph Roth Died In Rockford Garbage Truck Accident
Truck Accident - October 4, 2024
Joseph Roth, 48, of Byron, Died In Rockford Motorcycle Accident With Garbage Truck By Harrison Avenue and Bucknell Drive
ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS (October 4, 2024) – A motorcyclist identified as Joseph Roth has tragically died in a Rockford garbage truck accident by Harrison Avenue and Bucknell Drive.
Winnebago County officials are saying that the incident took place around 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday. An orange garbage truck collided with Joseph Roth as he was traveling down the road.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain unknown. However, a photo of the crash site suggests that the garbage truck may have been making a left turn at the time of the collision.
Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim. Despite life-saving measures, Joseph Roth died due to his injuries.
Police closed the intersection for three hours as they conducted an investigation.
Liability For Rockford Garbage Truck Accidents
Motorcyclists are uniquely vulnerable to the hazards posed by larger vehicles and commercial trucks. According to the IIHS, “A total of 6,222 motorcyclists died in crashes in 2022. That is the highest number ever recorded and a 23% increase since 2019. Motorcycle deaths accounted for 15% of all motor vehicle crash deaths in 2022 and were nearly triple the number of motorcyclist deaths in 1997.” There are a number of common causes of truck accidents.
- Truck drivers may be fatigued. In fact, nearly 1 – 10 truck drivers involved in a fatal collision reported feeling under pressure from their employer.
- Truck drivers may be speeding. In many circumstances, truck drivers may travel faster than what would be safe and prudent given the prevailing conditions.
- Trucks have large blind spots that can obscure the presence of smaller vehicles and pedestrians.
Garbage truck drivers must acquire a commercial license and are held to a high standard in terms of safety. Many truck accidents are due to truck drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/11-902), any person intending to turn left must first yield the right of way to any vehicle traveling from the opposite direction that is close enough so as to pose a hazard. If a driver makes a dangerous turn, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. It is important that evidence is properly preserved after any garbage truck accident.
- Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Accident reconstruction may need to be performed.
- The work records of the truck driver involved should be reviewed.
The vast majority of garbage truck accidents are preventable. They tend to involve garbage truck companies that are prioritizing efficiency at the cost of safety. According to one investigation by ProPublica, garbage trucks owned by private companies tend to have a worse safety record than their public counterparts. In particular, it is common for private garbage truck operators to work 10 – 14 hour days and become dangerously fatigued.
Investigating Rockford Garbage Truck Accidents
We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of Joseph Roth. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to the Rockford Police Department. It is our sincere hope that city officials will consider measures to make this intersection safer.
Do you need more information about a Rockford garbage truck accident? Our team of roadway safety advocates is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held accountable for their wrongful actions. Whether you just have questions or need a free, independent investigation into any incident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.
