Large trucks have big blind spots that are hazards on Roswell roads. When a smaller vehicle stays too long in a truck’s blind spot and a truck driver isn’t careful, it can lead to a serious accident. If you or a loved one were hurt in a blind spot-related accident, you might be entitled to compensation.
At John Foy & Associates, we’ve been helping our clients win settlements for over 20 years. We’re known as the “Strong Arm” for a reason: we’re not afraid to stand up to the insurance companies. Talk to our Roswell blind spot accident lawyers today about your legal rights.
To discuss your case during a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Truck Blind Spot Locations
All motorists should be aware of a truck driver’s blind spots. It might seem like truckers have a better view of the road because they’re higher up. However, truck drivers have pretty large blind spots because of large truck designs.
Large trucks have blind spots in the following locations:
- Right in front of the truck
- Along each side of the truck (and largest on the right side)
- Right behind the truck
It’s dangerous for a vehicle to stay too long in a truck blind spot, especially small cars. Many accidents happen because a truck driver didn’t know about a vehicle in a blind spot.
While other drivers must avoid blind spots, truck drivers must also be careful. A trucker should account for “hidden” vehicles before changing lanes, turning, or braking. Negligence from any driver can quickly lead to a serious accident.
Blind spots are common with large vehicles, especially:
- Semi-trucks
- Tractor-trailers
- Semi-trailers
- Big rigs
- Delivery trucks
- 18-wheelers
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), drivers should stay out of a truck’s blind spot when it’s turning, changing lanes, or backing up. Here’s another good rule of thumb: if a driver cannot see a truck driver in their side mirror, the truck driver cannot see them either.
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Large Trucks Have Bigger Blind Spots
Semi-trucks are very long vehicles. When a vehicle is extra-long, its blind spots are bigger. Motorists should treat blind spot areas as “no-zones.” No one can avoid these zones completely. But they should spend as little time as possible in those areas.
Many truck accidents happen because a trucker failed to account for road conditions. The driver might ignore nearby vehicles or make careless mistakes in heavy traffic. Truck drivers travel for large stretches of time, which can lead to fatigue. Driver fatigue can cause a trucker to make decisions that are dangerous to everyone on the road.
If an accident involves a blind spot, the legalities are complicated. It can be hard to know who was at fault, which is why it’s best to contact an experienced lawyer. After your accident, call John Foy & Associates to go over the details. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Types of Blind Spots Accidents
Blind spot accidents can happen in many different ways. When a collision happens in a driver’s blind spot, it can lead to accidents like:
- Side-swipe accidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Side-impact accidents
- Rollover accidents
- Unsafe lane change crashes
Blind spot accidents sometimes involve several vehicles. One collision can even create a chain reaction of injuries and damages. If more than one driver is partially at fault, you might have multiple injury claims.
Blind Spot Accident Injuries
The nature of blind spot accidents can lead to serious injuries or even death. Common injuries include:
- Brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Internal organ damage
Consult with a blind spot accident lawyer after this type of accident. If you were hurt in a no-zone collision, you’ll need to determine who was at fault. Liability is not always obvious, and it can be hard to show the other driver was responsible.
Knowing Who’s Liable for a Blind Spot Crash
Accident claims involving truck drivers are complicated. If the truck driver is an employee, they might not be liable for their actions. In Georgia, an employer is liable for injuries caused by an employee on the job. However, the trucker could be personally liable if they are an independent contractor.
A number of people or companies could be at fault for a blind spot accident.
Truck Drivers
Truckers have a higher duty of care, according to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §46-9-1. If a truck driver isn’t careful, they can cause a catastrophic accident. The trucker might be liable for the damages of an accident if they are self-employed.
Truck drivers should receive special training around blind spots. They should be able to navigate situations where other drivers are in or near these areas.
Trucking Companies
If the truck driver is an employee, the trucking company is probably liable. You’d need to file a claim with the trucking company’s insurance company for compensation. The trucking company might be at fault if they hired an unfit driver or illegally cut corners.
Unfortunately, driver fatigue is really common in the trucking industry. Truck drivers must follow strict work schedules, and they often have tight deadlines. A driver or trucking company might stretch the law in an effort to move cargo faster. If this leads to an accident, the company could be responsible.
Manufacturing Companies
Sometimes a truck accident happens because of vehicle defects. If a defect affects a driver’s blind spot and it causes an accident, the manufacturer could be at fault.
Our lawyers know how to thoroughly investigate a blind spot accident. We’ll determine who was at fault and what damages you have. Reach out today to learn how we can help.
Talk to a Roswell Blind Spot Accident Lawyer Today
Truck blind spots can quickly lead to accidents if drivers aren’t careful. If you were injured or lost a loved one in this type of accident, you have rights. John Foy & Associates is here to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Our team does not collect a fee unless we win you money. Our structure allows you to get legal help today without any fees or costs. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started with a FREE consultation.
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