Blind Spot Truck Accident Lawyers

Blind spots, also known as areas of low visibility, are present around all motor vehicles to some extent. Even with the use of rear view and side-view mirrors, it can be challenging to have a complete view of surrounding vehicles. It is good practice to look over your shoulder and check for nearby traffic when changing lanes.

The location of a truck’s blind spots depends on its make and model. A semi-truck will have different points of obstructed view than a hazmat tanker, or garbage truck, for example. In general, though, large truck blind spots or “no zones” consist of:

• The two to three car-lengths directly in front of the truck cab.
• The two lanes immediately to the right of the cab and trailer.
• The left side of the truck from the cab to about halfway down the trailer.
• A car length or two directly behind the truck.

Truckers have a responsibility to ensure their blind spots are clear before attempting a maneuver. When they fail to check these spots properly or there is a system or equipment failure that causes this type of crash, the fault is typically on the trucker’s side.

Blind spot truck accidents can occur due to several factors, including:

• Trucks following too closely: The inability of truck drivers to see vehicles directly in front of them increases the risk of rear-end accidents if traffic slows or stops abruptly.
• Cars tailgating trucks: Vehicles that follow too closely in a truck's rear blind spot are at risk of causing rear-end truck accidents.
• Negligent driving: When truck drivers fail to exercise caution while merging, changing lanes, or making turns, accidents can occur with vehicles in their blind spots.
• Vehicles traveling through a truck's blind spots: Motorists should exercise caution when passing through a truck's No Zones. If a car quickly enters a truck's blind spot and the truck driver is unaware, a lane change or turn by the truck could result in a collision.
• Distracted driving: Truck drivers must always remain attentive to their vehicles and surroundings. Distractions such as phone use or texting can violate safety regulations and contribute to blind spot accidents.
• Intoxication: Commercial drivers are subject to stricter blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits. Impaired truck drivers with dulled reflexes, impaired judgment, and reduced inhibitions due to alcohol or drug use increase the likelihood of blind spot accidents.
• Fatigued driving: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue if truckers do not adhere to required rest periods. Fatigue impairs judgment and reaction times, significantly increasing the risk of blind spot accidents.
• Poor vehicle maintenance and/or mirror adjustment.
• Inadequate training.
• Vehicle malfunction, tire blowouts.

Common Types of Truck Blind Spot Accidents

Blind spot accidents involving trucks can manifest in various ways, including:

• Rear-end collisions
• Sideswipe accidents
• Underride accidents
• Override accidents

Blind Spot Accident Statistics

Blind spot truck accidents have the following statistics:

• Of the 4,862 fatal truck crashes reported nationwide, 59% involved the front of the truck as the initial point of impact.
• Nearly half of all truck accidents resulting in injuries also had the front of the truck as the initial point of impact.
• The rear of the truck was the second-most common initial point of impact in both fatal and injury crashes, with 920 fatal rear-end collisions and 26,000 injury-related rear-end collisions.

When a blind spot truck accident happens, there may be more parties than just the trucker liable for a victim’s injuries. Entities potentially at fault in a blind spot truck accident include:

• Truck driver.
• Trucking company or truck owner.
• Vehicle maintenance crews.
• Defective parts manufacturer. 

An experienced blind spot truck accident attorney can determine who is at fault in a wreck and fight to hold them accountable.

How do you get compensation for a blind spot truck accident?

To pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, injury rehabilitation, and car repairs, among other damages, an injured victim will usually file an insurance claim. Using evidence collected from the crash site and trucking company, medical records, work history, witness statements, and expert testimony, successful injury claims demonstrate negligence by the at-fault party. Many injured truck accident victims choose to have lawyers handle the claim process and negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation while they focus on healing.

In general, an injured truck accident victim has the right to file a lawsuit. However, there are deadlines for filing claims and lawsuits, known as statutes of limitations, which vary depending on the location and circumstances. In general, it's best to consult an attorney as soon as possible after a tractor-trailer truck accident to ensure there is enough time to pursue compensation.

What is the average settlement in a blind spot truck accident?

When it comes to blind spot truck accidents, there is no average settlement amount since each accident is unique. Several factors are taken into account, including the type and severity of the injury, lost wages, the long-term effects of the injury, fault, and the skills of the lawyer representing the victim. Due to the significant weight of large trucks, which can be up to 80,000 pounds, the injuries caused can be life-altering and severe. Therefore, the compensation awarded can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. 

To ensure that a victim's health and comfort are given top priority, it is crucial to work with an experienced blind spot truck accident attorney. Such a lawyer can assess the situation and calculate a compensation package that aligns with the victim's needs. They can also build a strong case to support the demand for compensation and negotiate assertively for favorable results.

Blind spot truck accidents often cause severe and life-threatening injuries. Some of the most common ones include:

• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI).
• Bone fractures.
• Internal organ damage. 
• Chronic back pain.

How a blind spot truck accident lawyer can help 

An experienced blind spot truck accident attorney can fight for the rights of injured victims and families of fatal accident victims. Lawyers conduct thorough crash investigations, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and determine liability. They can also work with accident reconstruction specialists to determine the cause of the accident and help build a strong case for compensation.

It's important to act quickly if you've been injured in a blind spot truck accident, as there are strict deadlines for filing a claim or lawsuit. If you've been injured in a blind spot truck accident, don't hesitate to contact an experienced truck accident attorney in your state for a free consultation. They can review your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the justice and money you deserve.