When sharing the road with commercial vehicles, drivers must be acutely aware of their large blind spots. Accidents in these blind spots, commonly known as “no-zones,” can have catastrophic results. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a truck where poor visibility may have played a role, speaking with a skilled Las Vegas truck accident lawyer is essential.
How Blind Spot Truck Accidents Occur
Blind spot truck accidents are unfortunately common and can be particularly severe due to the size disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. Understanding how these collisions occur requires exploring several factors.
Size and Visibility Constraints: The sheer length and height of a truck create significant blind spots on all four sides, making it much harder for truck drivers to see smaller vehicles that may disappear into these no-zones.
Lane Changing or Merging Accidents: Many blind spot incidents happen during lane changes or merges when a vehicle is tucked in the side no-zone of the truck just as the larger vehicle attempts to shift lanes, resulting in potential sideswiping.
Turning Incidents: Trucks often need wide arcs when turning. Drivers who don’t anticipate this may end up in a blind spot at an intersection leading to what’s called ‘squeeze play’ accidents. This is where they get caught between the turning truck and another obstacle, like the side of the road.
Poor Maneuvering or Overtaking: Sometimes, drivers underestimate the speed of a truck and attempt to overtake it without ensuring they have passed out of its blind spot. This can result in the truck inadvertently swaying into an adjacent lane and causing an accident.
Rear Blind Zone Collisions: A rear blind zone exists directly behind commercial trucks where mirror visibility is limited. Vehicles that follow too closely find themselves hidden from truck drivers’ line of sight, leading to collisions when trucks stop abruptly or begin backing up without noticing trailing vehicles.
Navigating around large trucks requires heightened awareness and caution to avoid blind spot incidents.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help After a Truck Accident
If you’re involved in this type of accident despite your precautions and believe it was a result of the truck driver’s (or someone else’s) negligence, experienced personal injury lawyers can help with the aftermath. Here’s how they can help:
Case Assessment: From the outset, a personal injury lawyer will evaluate your case to determine liability and identify potential sources of compensation. They’ll analyze accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and applicable trucking laws and regulations.
Negotiations With Insurance Companies: Personal injury lawyers are skilled at handling insurance companies, which can be particularly challenging because these entities often engage in tactics to minimize payouts. Your lawyer will negotiate to ensure you get a fair settlement that covers your needs and losses, from medical expenses and lost wages to pain and suffering.
Litigation Strategy: If negotiations don’t lead to an acceptable outcome, your attorney may advise filing a lawsuit. They will develop a strong litigation strategy and represent you in court.
Expert Witness Coordination: In truck accident cases, expert testimony is often necessary – like accident reconstruction specialists who can explain why the incident occurred or medical experts who can attest to the severity of your injuries. Your lawyer will arrange for these qualified professionals to provide reports and testify at trial if needed.
Involvement in a truck accident can be devastating, but with a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer by your side, the journey toward fair compensation and justice is easier. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
