If you are injured in a truck accident, don’t assume the accident is your fault. Trucks have large mirrors for a reason — they have huge blind spots. Driving in these “no zones” can increase your risk of being involved in a commercial truck accident. According to the graphic provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation, a large truck has a 20-foot blind spot in front of the cab and a 30-foot blind spot behind the trailer.
There are also large blind spots to the left and the right of the cab. On the driver’s side, the blind spot extends out one lane and about one-half way down the trailer.
However, on the passenger side, the blind spot extends two lanes and runs the length of the trailer. Furthermore, when a large truck is turning right, the blind spot runs the entire length of the truck on the passenger side.
Avoiding A Blind Spot Truck Accident
Truck drivers must make every effort to watch blind spots to avoid a collision. However, there are also steps you can take to avoid a blind spot truck accident. Tips for avoiding a Michigan truck blind spot accident include:
Allow Additional Space – Stay far back from the rear of the truck and allow extra space in between you and the truck when changing lanes in front of the truck.
Don’t Tailgate – Following a truck too closely can result in a substantial amount of wind resistance in addition to limiting your visibility of the surrounding traffic and area. Colliding with the back of a semi-trailer at interstate speeds (i.e. 60 or more miles per hour) results in catastrophic consequences.
Stay in Their Mirrors – If you can see yourself in the mirror, it is more likely the truck driver can see you too. Being visible to the driver can avoid a collision.
Pass on the Left – The blind spot on the right side of a big rig extends the length of the trailer. If possible, pass on the left side of the truck to avoid driving in the blind spot any longer than necessary.
Don’t Drive on the Right When Truck is Turning – When a truck is making a right turn, the driver cannot see any vehicles on the right side of the truck. A large truck may require two lanes when making a right turn. You may believe you have enough room; however, you could be pinned between the truck and another object, or the truck could run over your vehicle.
It is always in your best interest to consult with an experienced Okemos truck accident attorney to determine if you are entitled to compensation from the trucking company. To schedule a free consultation with a Michigan truck accident lawyer, call The Clark Law Office at 517-347-6900.
Whose Fault Is It?
If you are injured in a truck accident, it is crucial that you prove the collision was caused by the driver or another party. To recover compensation for your injuries and damages, you must prove that someone else caused the crash. You can give a truck all the space required to remain safe yet still be injured in a large truck accident. Most truck accidents, including blind spot accidents, are the result of driver error. Common reasons for a Michigan truck accident include:
Driver fatigue and drowsy driving
Speeding and reckless driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Failing to maintain the truck or perform inspections
Distracted driving
Inexperienced or improperly trained drivers
If an accident is not your fault, you deserve to be compensated for your injuries, losses, and damages.
Injuries and Damages in A Truck Blind Spot Accident
No zone blind spot accidents can cause traumatic injuries that result in life-altering conditions. Victims often suffer spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, nerve damage, amputations, broken bones, and internal injuries. In addition to great physical pain and emotional stress, truck accident victims suffer substantial financial loss. Property damage, loss of income, medical expenses, personal care, prescription medications, and home modifications are some examples of the out-of-pocket losses caused by a truck accident. Damages and losses can quickly add into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. An experienced Lansing truck accident attorney can fight for your right to recover full compensation for your financial losses, physical pain, and emotional stress.
Contact an Experienced Michigan Truck Accident Attorney
If you are injured in a truck accident, the insurance company for the trucking company ma pressure you to accept a quick settlement. Settling a claim too fast may not be in your best interest. The insurance adjuster does NOT work for you! Don’t be pressured to accept a settlement until you consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer. The Michigan truck accident lawyers of The Clark Law Office have experience handling all types of large truck accidents, including truck blind spot accidents. Call our office at 517-347-6900 to schedule a free legal consultation. We have offices in Okemos and Lansing for your convenience. You are under no obligation to hire our Lansing personal injury law firm after receiving your free case evaluation. Therefore, you have nothing to lose by seeking sound legal advice before you settle your truck accident claim.
