One of the four blind spots on an 18-wheeler causes many truck accidents. Commercial truck drivers are responsible for being aware of their blind spots. However, they often fail to accommodate blind spots on the roads. Failures of this magnitude lead to significant damage. If you were part of such an accident, you could collect financial compensation.
Locating the Four Blind Apots on an 18-Wheeler
The four blind spots on an 18-wheeler are as follows:
- The left side of the vehicle
- The right side of the vehicle
- Directly behind the vehicle
- Directly in front of the vehicle
It is always the responsibility of the 18-wheeler operator to account for their blind spots. It is helpful to also be aware of a truck’s blind spots when sharing the road with these vehicles. Accounting for blind spots and adjusting your driving behaviors accordingly can help to prevent accidents and injuries.
How to Account for an 18-Wheeler’s Blind Spots
Blind spots on 18-wheelers pose a more significant problem than those on smaller vehicles. However, you can still do your part to factor them into your driving decisions. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) offers some keen advice. They state that if you cannot see the driver in their side mirror, then it is safe to assume that they also cannot see you.
The larger a vehicle is, the larger its blind spots are. Other drivers need to employ extra caution when passing or being passed by these vehicles. You can dramatically reduce your chances of a dangerous encounter with an 18-wheeler. You can accomplish this by taking a careful, measured approach to sharing the road.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
When a driver neglects their blind spots, it could be because they are engaged in some other form of reckless or negligent driving.
Common forms of driver error that cause 18-wheeler accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Drug impairment
- Alcohol intoxication
- Texting while driving
- Speeding
- Drowsy driving
Steps You Can Take to Avoid 18-Wheeler Accidents
18-wheeler operators are responsible for maintaining control of their vehicles. However, caution when driving near large vehicles is wise. As a driver, you should engage in safe, defensive driving behaviors. This can reduce your risk of accidents and injuries.
Always be sure that you give an 18-wheeler plenty of following distance. You should also be certain that you are signaling when changing lanes or passing. Failing to do so can not only put you at risk of collision. It may also leave you with partial liability in the event of an accident.
Handling Common Injuries Associated with 18-Wheeler Accidents
Unfortunately, the four blind spots on an 18-wheeler are known to produce accidents that cause severe personal injuries for those involved. Due to these vehicles’ large size and weight, collisions often lead to substantial forms of damage. The following are especially vulnerable:
- Motorists driving passenger vehicles
- Bicyclists
- Motorcyclists
- Pedestrians
Some common injuries in 18-wheeler accidents include:
Traumatic brain injuries are among the most severe forms of personal injuries that result from 18-wheeler accidents. When truck drivers cannot account for their blind spots, they may swerve into other vehicles. This can cause substantial damages to vehicles and drivers.
As Mayo Clinic points out, traumatic brain injuries can lead to lifelong complications. 18-wheeler accident victims can suffer from cognitive impairment, so seeking immediate medical help is advised.
Other injuries you might have sustained include:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injury
- Burns
- Fractures
- Disfigurement
- Whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Lacerations
How Our Lawyers Can Help You in an 18-Wheeler Accident Case
After being involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, you could pursue monetary compensation as part of a settlement. Reckless or negligent actions could make you eligible for damages. Your truck accident lawyer will help you collect evidence, establish a liable party, and stand up for your rights as we build your case.
When our lawyers take on your case, we will communicate with parties involved in the case for you. These could include:
- Drivers
- Insurance representatives
- Commercial vehicle carriers
As part of this process, we will also examine relevant state and local laws. This is because some of them may highlight important aspects of your situation. We will then keep in touch with you as we pursue any possibly recoverable forms of compensation.
Contact Loncar Associates for Assistance
If you were part of an accident that involved the four blind spots on an 18-wheeler you could secure financial compensation. Our team of lawyers is here to answer your questions, construct your case, and seek any potential monetary compensation.
For more information about our services, call Loncar Lyon Jenkins today at (877) 239-4878.
