"Not Responsible for Broken Windshields"

[C91]

Wanna bet?

It's the height of construction season here in the Evergreen State and I've noticed a lot more dump trucks out on the roads.  Many of them are emblazoned with stickers warning motorists to "Stay back 200 feet" and how they are "Not Responsible for Broken Windshields".

Nice try, but don't fall for it.  It's a good warning for other drivers, but ultimately, the driver or owner of a truck carrying an unsecured load is ultimately responsible for any damage that load causes if it leaves the truck.  It doesn't matter if it's as big as the wing for a Dreamliner or as small as pebble for a fish tank.  If it leaves the truck and damages your car, the truck driver is responsible.

If your vehicle is damaged by debris coming from a truck, get the license number of the truck in case you need to make a claim with your insurance company.  Secondly, if you see truck driving with an unsecured load, call the authorities.  Items leaving a truck (especially at 60 mph) can be deadly.  These laws aren't made to inconvenience truck drivers, they're made for the safety of other motorists.

[kimmi]

Good to know!  I'd like to know who to contact when I run over the millionth screw and need a new tire!  I hate construction season here! It seems to be year round!

[Palehorse]

I've got a chip in my truck windshield from one of those jerks. . .