Every enclosed vehicle has blind spots, but they are particularly large on big rigs. This is because truck drivers sit much higher than drivers of passenger vehicles as the vehicles are extra-long, with the trailer blocking the driver’s view. A truck’s blind spots are also known as “no zones.” These are areas on all four sides of a rig where other vehicles are not visible to the truck driver. To check blind spots in adjacent lanes along the vehicle, truck drivers must turn their bodies, as the truck mirrors do not cover these areas.
Truck Blind Spots
A large commercial truck’s blind spots are located:
In front of the truck: This “no zone” extends approximately 20 feet in front of the truck. A truck driver may rear-end a vehicle he or she fails to see in this blind spot. It is important to allow plenty of room when passing in front of a large truck.
On the driver’s side: The blind spot on the left side of the truck extends back to approximately half the length of the trailer. A collision can occur with a vehicle traveling in this area if the truck driver merges into the left lane.
On the passenger side: This is a truck’s largest no zone. It extends out diagonally to a width of three lanes from the front of the truck to the rear of the trailer. A truck driver who changes lanes to the right or makes a wide right turn can hit a vehicle passing on the right or traveling in this blind spot.
Behind the rig: Large commercial trucks do not have rearview mirrors in their cabs. Approximately 30 feet behind the truck or trailer is not visible to the driver. A truck underride accident can occur if the truck driver stops suddenly, causing a rear-end collision with the vehicle behind.
What Are Some Common Injuries in Truck Accidents Caused by Blind Spots?
Any collision with a semi-truck can cause serious or fatal injuries to passenger vehicle occupants due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. Common blind spot truck accident injuries include:
Head trauma and brain injuries
Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis
Bone fractures and dislocations
Severe burns
Crush injuries and amputations
Internal organ damage and bleeding
Back and neck injuries, including whiplash
Severe lacerations (from shattered glass, sharp metal, etc.)
What Forms of Compensation May Be Available for Truck Accident Injuries?
If you have been seriously injured in a truck accident that was not your fault, you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation against the responsible parties. Damages you may be entitled to claim will depend on the nature and severity of your injuries. Common damages in serious injury truck accident claims include:
Past and future medical expenses
Lost wages or earnings
Loss of future earning potential
Pain and suffering
Scarring and disfigurement
Permanent disability
Emotional distress
Mental anguish
Loss of consortium
Contacting an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible is essential. Your attorney must take action promptly to prevent critical evidence in the truck’s black box from being recorded over or otherwise destroyed.
Our experienced truck accident attorneys could investigate your accident to determine fault and liability, secure evidence to support your claim, and build a strong case based on the facts. In addition, we could assess the full extent of your damages, negotiate skillfully with insurance companies on your behalf, and fight for the compensation you deserve in court if necessary. Call The Husband & Wife Law Team at (623) 552-4216.