Every vehicle has blind spots that could be dangerous and require drivers to demonstrate extra vigilance. The same is true of larger commercial vehicles like trucks. The main difference is that these blind spots are considerably larger than the average motor vehicle.
When a truck driver fails to adequately check their blind spots and causes an accident, they could be liable if one or more people are injured as a result of their negligence. If you were involved in one of the recent blind-spot truck accidents in Inverness, you should speak with a proactive 18-wheeler collision attorney who could offer advice specific to your case and help you understand your best legal options.
The Role of Negligence in Blind-Spot Truck Wrecks
Commercial trucks like tractor-trailers have multiple blind spots. Truck drivers who are not sufficiently trained to manage or fail to observe these zones could place fellow motorists at grave risk. One of these major blind spots is the back of the trailer, which is a no-go area that extends up to 30 feet.
Another significant blind spot that extends a similar distance is the area directly in front of the vehicle’s cab. There are also large blind spots on either side of the cab. The sheer height and length of tractor-trailers mean they have considerably wider blind spots than a traditional motor vehicle. This heightens the likelihood of a truck collision in Inverness if the driver is not exerting reasonable care on the roadway with regard to their blind spots.
Some of the most common negligent driving behaviors that could lead to a blind spot truck accident include:
- Distracted driving
- Improper lane changes
- Following a car too closely
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Alcohol or drug-impaired driving
- Failing to check the truck’s side mirrors
In some cases, outside factors beyond the truck driver’s control could contribute to the collision, such as improper truck maintenance or poor repair procedures. A crash that occurs in or around a truck’s blind spot could be catastrophic, leading to serious injuries, such as broken bones as well as head, back, neck, and crushing injuries.
Recovering Damages After a Blind-Spot Truck Crash
Those injured in blind-spot truck wrecks in Inverness may be able to claim multiple forms of financial recovery. Florida law requires individuals who are involved in a motor vehicle crash to first look to their own personal injury protection (PIP) policy to pay for specific losses from the accident, such as medical bills and lost income.
However, individuals who sustain serious bodily harm in a blind-spot truck crash may be entitled to go outside of this system and file a lawsuit directly against the truck driver and any other negligent parties involved. Depending on the facts of the accident, not only the truck driver, but their employer, the truck maintenance company, and even the truck manufacturer could bear liability in a successful legal claim.
Although PIP could cover specific dollar-amount costs from the accident, these policy limits may not sufficiently cover the losses associated with a serious personal injury. By filing a civil claim for damages, the injured individual could recover the full value of their medical bills and lost wages on top of other losses, like pain and suffering.
Seek Legal Help After an Inverness Blind-Spot Truck Accident
Even if liability in blind-spot truck accidents in Inverness seems clear, insurance companies often do everything to avoid paying out claims. A credible attorney could make sure that every piece of evidence and documentation, as well as of proof of injuries, liability, and losses are included in your claim for damages.
A committed lawyer could work tirelessly to hold the truck driver, company, or other responsible party liable for the injuries you have sustained and all compensation you may be owed. Contact our office to schedule your consultation with a skilled legal professional today.
