Yes, a lack of visibility does cause more truck accidents. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FWHA), reduced visibility can be caused by various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog. It can also occur at night in poorly lit areas. The organization notes that a lack of visibility results in over 38,000 motor vehicle accidents each year.
Yet, while poor visibility can certainly increase the number of truck accidents, it does not excuse a truck driver from driving safely. All motorists have a civic obligation to operate their vehicles with reasonable care. If you or a loved one was injured in a Texas truck accident, consider the value of working with a lawyer.
Factors that Make It Difficult to See While Driving
When you work with a lawyer, one of their goals will involve determining why your accident happened.
Truck drivers may suffer from a lack of visibility for many reasons, including:
Vehicular Design
Semi-trailer trucks come with many blind spots that can impede safe driving practices. These vehicles are higher up than other vehicles, which makes it more difficult to spot other motorists. Additionally, there is no rear window, so the driver cannot see directly behind them. The driver’s blind spots usually run from the length of the trailer, so truck drivers may not be able to see other motorists because of these conditions. Nonetheless, they are expected to keep a proper lookout for other motorists and drive safely to avoid accidents.
Nighttime Driving
Many truckers must drive at night to meet their delivery quotas. However, it can be more difficult to see at night. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), truck accidents are three times more likely to occur at night than during the day. Some of the reasons for this include difficulty seeing, impaired drivers, and drowsy drivers.
Poor Lighting
The NHTSA reports that semi-trailer trucks must have functioning lights on multiple parts of the vehicle, including headlights, taillights, and brake lights. When trucking companies do not promptly fix broken lights or ensure that their vehicles meet safety standards, they open themselves up to liability in the event of a crash.
Poor Lighting
Some truck drivers suffer from chronic health conditions due to the sedentary nature of the job. Some of these medical conditions can cause a general deterioration of the body, affecting eyesight. Truck drivers who cannot see clearly or do not wear prescribed eyewear can cause serious accidents.
Lack of Reflectors
Roadway reflectors that are missing may make it more difficult for truck drivers to see, especially at night. If this played a role in your collision, then you may be able to hold the government department responsible for the roadway’s maintenance liable for your injuries.
Inclement Weather Conditions
We mentioned earlier that inclement weather conditions, such as fog, rain, or snow, can adversely affect a trucker’s driving capabilities. Yet, while the weather may cause poor visibility, it is the driver’s responsibility to reduce speeds or pull over when driving conditions are unsafe.
Legal Issues Surrounding Your Poor Visibility Truck Accident Case
When you work with a truck accident lawyer, they will build a case that seeks to recover compensation for your various out-of-pocket expenses.
They will also investigate the circumstances of your collision to provide answers to the following questions:
- Who is liable for the accident?
- What duty did the truck driver and trucking company have to prevent an accident?
- Which insurance company is responsible for the victim’s damages?
- What type of damages can the victim pursue compensation for?
- Is there a claim against a government entity due to poor roadway conditions?
- What evidence can establish liability in a poor visibility truck accident claim?
A personal injury attorney can investigate your claim, gather evidence, and work to answer these and other questions.
Contact Our Team Today for Help
So, yes, a lack of visibility does cause more truck accidents. Now that you know the answer to this question, you can start taking steps to promote the success of your case. The personal injury team at Loncar Lyon Jenkins is here to assist you with all aspects of your accident claim. Our firm represents more than 7,000 clients each year, and we stand ready to help you, too.
Our attorneys also work on a contingency-fee-basis, so you are not responsible for any attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf. Call us today at (877) 239-4878 to speak to a member of our team about your case.
