A no-zone accident is a type of truck accident. The term “no-zone” comes from a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) program. The organization created a No-Zone Campaign to warn drivers to avoid the areas around trucks where accidents are most likely.
When an accident happens because a driver was in a no-zone area, it’s a no-zone accident.
Where Are the No-Zones Around Trucks?
The most common no-zones of a truck include:
- Rear no-zone
- Left side no-zone
- Right side no-zone
- Front no-zone
Trucks and other large vehicles (like buses) have large blind spots, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Drivers cannot see certain areas around their vehicles. If another motorist drives in a no-zone, the truck driver might not see them. This can easily lead to a truck accident.
Truck drivers can be responsible for no-zone accidents, too. Truckers should take extra precautions to drive safely. For example, they should turn their bodies to see a blind spot around their truck.
If you suffered injuries in a no-zone accident, you might be entitled to compensation. It’s best to talk to a truck accident lawyer. An experienced lawyer can determine your legal options.
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How Can I Avoid a No-Zone Accident?
Be mindful of large truck blind spots. Keep in mind that all four sides of a truck have these blind areas. Drive with caution when passing or coming upon a commercial vehicle.
Here are some tips for avoiding a no-zone accident:
- Be extra careful when passing a large truck or bus.
- Give large trucks plenty of following distance.
- Keep in mind that if you cannot see the driver’s face in their side mirror, the driver cannot see you either.
- Stay out of truck blind spots, especially when the truck changes lanes, backs up, or turns.
Be Especially Careful During Right Turns
Before making a right turn, a large truck must first swing left. During this time, the truck driver cannot easily see vehicles on their right.
When a truck is turning right, avoid trying to pass. Never try to fit your vehicle between the truck and the curb. If you do, it can lead to a catastrophic accident.
Why Are Truck No-Zone Accidents So Serious?
Semi-trucks and 18-wheelers are enormous compared to other vehicles. When a vehicle that large gets into an accident, it’s hazardous.
Truck accident no-zone accidents are dangerous because:
- Trucks do not have the same visibility as other vehicles.
- Trucks need longer to stop or merge compared to smaller cars.
- Many trucks carry hazardous products that can cause more injuries during a crash.
- Truckers often work long shifts, spanning hundreds of miles. If they don’t get proper rest, drivers are on the road while fatigued. Driver fatigue is a common cause of truck accidents.
- Trucks are top-heavy, which makes them more prone to rollover accidents.
All of the above reasons can lead to accidents. If a truck driver doesn’t check their no-zone areas, it can cause a severe crash.
Do I Need a Lawyer After a No-Zone Accident?
Yes, it’s best to contact a truck accident lawyer after your accident. The truck driver or trucking company might try to:
- Blame you for the accident
- Doubt or downplay your injuries
- Call you and use anything you say against you
- Ask you to give a recorded statement
- Try to get you to accept a lowball settlement
Drivers need to know about truck no-zone areas. A driver can be at fault for a no-zone accident. However, truckers have a legal duty to avoid no-zone accidents, too.
You will need to file a claim with the trucking company’s insurance to seek compensation. However, this is not easy. The insurance company will look for a way to pay you less. They might take advantage of you before you realize what’s happening.
The truth is, trucker behavior is often to blame for a truck accident. Your truck accident lawyer can help by proving what happened.
Truck Drivers Owe You a Legal Duty
All drivers, including truck drivers, must exercise reasonable care on the road. When a driver does not use care, it’s known as negligence. If a truck driver was negligent in your accident, they are responsible for the damages.
As the victim of a truck accident, you can seek compensation for your damages (Georgia Code Section 51-12-4). Your costs might include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Vehicle damage
- Pain and suffering
Talk to a lawyer about the truck driver’s role in your accident and your damages.
How a Truck Accident Lawyer Helps Your Case
An experienced lawyer can help you by:
- Gathering evidence from the accident scene
- Compiling proof of your injuries
- Calculating the full value of your damages
- Negotiating with the insurance companies
- Protecting your rights through the whole process
Insurance companies are more likely to take you seriously if you have an attorney. The insurer will know that you plan to fight for what you deserve. They will be more likely to offer you a fair settlement.
Be sure to work with a lawyer who has experience with no-zone accidents. You’ll need someone familiar with truck accident laws and cases similar to yours.
Schedule a consultation with a trusted truck accident lawyer to get started today.
Get a Free Consultation with a Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At John Foy & Associates, we have 20-plus years of experience working on truck accident cases. Our lawyers will make the process as stress-free as possible. We also will not charge you a thing unless we win you money.
Get started with a FREE consultation today. We’ll answer any of your questions and discuss your options. To schedule your FREE, no-risk consultation, contact us online. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call.
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