Large semi-trucks and tractor-trailers have blind spots, often called no-zones, where the driver is unable to see other vehicles driving nearby. While every vehicle has blind spots, those on these large trucks driving through Atlanta are much larger. This also makes them incredibly dangerous for all drivers on the road. Injuries caused by a negligent truck drivers’ failure to account for these blind spots can help compensate you and your family for what you have suffered.
If you were injured in a blind spot truck accident in Atlanta, an experienced attorney can fight for the compensation you deserve.
Blind Spots on Large Tractor-Trailers
Semi-trucks have large blind spots that truck drivers are supposed to be aware of. While these can change depending on the truck, four primary spots are the most common:
- About twenty feet in front of the truck cab
- Immediately below and behind the driver’s side window
- Extending diagonally backward of the right side of the truck cab
- Directly behind the truck’s trailer for about thirty feet
These are commonly called “blind spots” because truck drivers are unable to see what is happening in these areas. A responsible truck driver is expected to know and understand these limitations, and take them into account when operating their trucks.
Common Causes of Blind Spot Truck Accidents
Many variables may cause a truck accident, but when the blind spot is involved, a number of scenarios are more common. These include, but are not limited to:
- Vehicles following too closely (tailgating)
- Aggressive driving by truck driver or aggressive braking
- Failure to check blind spots before changing lanes
- Failure to signal before changing lanes to warn other drivers
- Sudden and unexpected lane changes made by the truck driver
While there are true “blind spots” these trucks have, failure to account for this reality of driving a tractor-trailer may be considered negligence. When a driver is negligent, they can be held responsible for the plaintiff’s injuries.
Sources of Compensation in Truck Accidents
Knowing whom to sue is a crucial part of the personal injury process, and essential for a successful lawsuit. While the truck driver who caused the accident can be named in the lawsuit, other parties may also be responsible for the driver’s negligence.
Employers
If the truck driver is the employee of a company, the company can also be named in the lawsuit. Employers are responsible for the negligent acts of their employees in most cases. This creates a larger source of potential recovery for injured plaintiffs.
Insurance Companies
Commercial truck drivers are required to carry insurance in order to drive. Independent drivers will likely carry their own insurance, while employed drivers will utilize their company’s insurance. In either case, insurance companies are very often involved and named in these truck accident lawsuits.
Insurance companies often try to avoid paying claims in order to save money. They often attempt to shift blame on to the plaintiff to avoid paying. Many insurance companies also offer a lower than appropriate settlement offer to save money. An experienced truck accident attorney in Atlanta understands how to fight back against these large insurance companies to fight for the compensation the plaintiff deserves.
A Blind Spot Truck Accident Attorney Could Help Your Case
Truck accidents caused by a driver’s failure to account for blind spots can lead to catastrophic injuries, or even death. When this is the case, you and your family deserve to have your rights protected.
With the help of an experienced attorney, your blind spot truck accident in Atlanta may be the source of significant financial compensation. Contact us today for a consultation of your case.