Large commercial trucks have major blind spots on all four sides. The size, height and length of an 18-wheeler mean that the truck driver has significant gaps when it comes to the visibility of the surrounding road. Truck drivers are responsible for accommodating these blind spots by navigating the roads as safely and carefully as possible. If a truck driver fails in this regard, he or she can be held responsible for a related traffic accident in San Antonio. It’s important to speak with a truck accident lawyer in San Antonio for legal guidance and support after an accident.
Where Are a Truck’s Blind Spots?
While every motor vehicle has blind spots, commercial trucks have much larger blind spots than passenger cars. A truck’s blind spots are also referred to as “no zones,” as they are areas where other motor vehicle drivers are warned not to go. These no zones extend to all four sides of a truck in relatively the following areas:
- Directly in front of the truck, extending to about 20 feet in front of the bumper. A truck’s long hood means that a car can move in and out of this zone without being seen by the truck driver.
- Directly behind the truck, where the truck driver cannot see for about 30 feet due to the length of the trailer. Vehicles that are following too closely are at risk if the truck suddenly applies the brakes.
- About two lanes to the right side of the truck, which the driver cannot see from his or her position on the opposite side of the cab. Drivers should never pass large trucks to the right.
- About one lane to the left side of the truck, especially from the truck driver’s door to the middle of the trailer. Drivers should not linger in this area when passing a tractor-trailer.
These blind spots can pose significant risks to motor vehicle drivers. They can result in truck accidents such as lane-change or merge collisions, sideswipes, wide-turn accidents, rear-end collisions, underride and override accidents, and accidents while the truck is reversing. Truck accidents almost always result in more severe injuries to passenger car occupants than truck drivers.
How to Avoid a Blind Spot Truck Accident
A simple rule for motor vehicle drivers to remember is that if they cannot see the truck driver’s face in the truck’s mirrors, the driver cannot see them. San Antonio car accident lawyers emphasize that motor vehicle drivers are encouraged to pass large trucks as swiftly and safely as possible, always by driving to the left of the big rig, and only returning to the lane after reaching a safe distance in front of the truck.
Who Is Responsible for a Blind Spot Truck Accident in San Antonio?
It is essential for truck operators to remain aware of their surroundings and be constantly vigilant for accident risks, including blind spots. If a truck driver breaks the rules of the road, drives carelessly or dangerously, or fails to account for the known risks associated with a truck’s blind spots, he or she could be held liable (financially responsible) for a victim’s injuries and property damage.
Under federal common carrier laws, trucking companies are liable for most accidents involving their trucks and drivers, even if the drivers are independent contractors and not employees. This means that whether your blind spot accident was the fault of the truck driver or trucking company, you can likely bring a claim against the company. Working with a specialized personal injury attorney in San Antonio is important, as trucking companies generally have more insurance available than individual truck drivers.
When to Contact a San Antonio Truck Accident Lawyer
It can be difficult to move forward after a blind spot truck accident in San Antonio without the financial compensation you need to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, vehicle repairs or replacement, and various other losses. With assistance from an experienced truck accident attorney in San Antonio, your family can seek a fair settlement or jury verdict that helps you recover, restore and rebuild your life as much as possible.
If you’ve recently been injured in a blind spot truck accident, contact the reputable lawyers at Hill Law Firm Accident and Injury Attorneys to review your case and legal options during a free, no-obligation consultation.