Vincent Sardisco Died In San Pedro Pedestrian Accident With Garbage Truck Along Pacific Avenue
SAN PEDRO, CALIFORNIA (December 23, 2022) – A pedestrian identified as Vincent Sardisco was killed in a San Pedro garbage truck accident on Pacific Avenue.
Los Angeles County officials are saying that the accident took place around 5:00 a.m. on December 5th. An LA sanitation truck struck Vincent Sardisco as he was crossing in a crosswalk.
Paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim. Despite life-saving measures, Vincent Sardisco died as a result of his injuries.
On December 13, Theresa Sardisco, who is a family member of the victim, identified him on the San Pedro California Facebook page. He was also identified by the Los Angeles County coroner’s office.
A full investigation into the collision remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For San Pedro Garbage Truck Accidents
Garbage trucks can be uniquely hazardous to pedestrians. A fully loaded garbage truck can weigh as much as 64,000 lbs. This can make them much more difficult to stop than passenger vehicles. They also have large blind spots that make pedestrians and smaller vehicles much less visible. Garbage truck operators often operate in the very early morning hours when pedestrians are much more difficult to spot in the first place. There are a number of steps that garbage truck drivers should take in order to avoid collisions.
- Garbage truck companies should ensure that their drivers are well-trained.
- Garbage trucks should be regularly inspected and properly maintained.
- Garbage trucks should be equipped with audible backup alarm systems.
Garbage truck drivers will typically need a commercial driver’s license and are held to a high standard in terms of safety. They must abide by all traffic and safety regulations. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21950, the driver of any vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian that is crossing in a marked crosswalk. If a driver fails to slow down to avoid hitting a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim.
Liability for a garbage truck accident could extend beyond an at-fault garbage truck driver. The company that a garbage truck driver worked for could be liable for a crash. Generally speaking, companies are liable for the wrongful actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after any garbage truck accident.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough investigation should be conducted.
A city could also be liable for a garbage truck accident if it was caused by a dangerous condition on public property. The family of any person that died in a garbage truck accident may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A San Pedro Garbage Truck Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Vincent Sardisco. This was a tragic collision that should not have taken place. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. Far too often, garbage truck companies prioritize maximizing their own profits over the safety of everyone else of the road.
Do you need more information about a San Pedro garbage truck accident? Our team of pedestrian safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.