Can I tell from the outside if a garbage truck is government-operated or private?

Can I tell from the outside if a garbage truck is government-operated or private?

Not always reliably. A truck with city markings may be operated by a private contractor. Look for the USDOT number on the cab door — if it is registered to a private company rather than a governmental body, it is a private carrier claim. Your attorney can verify this within 24–48 hours of the accident.