May 16, 2013
A new Wisconsin law is aimed at better protecting sanitation workers from the dangers of a collision. Reports indicate the law was approved in a 32 to 1 vote on Tuesday.
According to an article published in the Appleton Post-Crescent, the bill would make it illegal for a vehicle to pass a stopped garbage truck without first having slowed down. The fines for those caught recklessly passing sanitation vehicles are also doubled under the new piece of legislation.
Rep. John Jagler introduced the bill after he learned of a sanitation worker from his district that was injured in a motor vehicle collision while working. In January, the worker was dumping trash when a speeding vehicle suddenly attempted to pass the stopped garbage truck and hit the worker. The victim was left with serious injuries that required extended medical attention.
Accidents like this aren’t uncommon. According to the National Solid Wastes Management Association, up to eight workers are killed annually as a result of collisions with passing motor vehicles.
The law is aimed at offering sanitation workers similar legal protection that is offered to emergency responders.
The Appleton personal injury lawyers at Sigman Janssen Injury & Disability Lawyers recognize the dangers sanitation workers face each day. The firm is hopeful the new regulations will better protect these workers from the on-the-job risks they endure daily.
