Houston Blind Spot Accident Lawyer
All drivers are expected to check their blind spots regularly. For drivers of small vehicles, this typically requires only turning their head for a second. For drivers of commercial trucks, it is much more difficult. The blind spots on a truck, known as ‘no-zones,’ are extremely large and when passenger vehicles are in them, they can easily be involved in a serious accident. Still, truck drivers are expected to know how to properly check these blind spots so no one becomes hurt. When they fail to do this and you are injured, a Houston blind spot accidents lawyer can explain your legal options.
Blind Spots on Commercial Trucks
Commercial trucks have a blind spot on each side, and they are all extremely large. Other drivers should try to avoid these areas at all times, which is why they have earned the name no-zones. The four no-zones on commercial trucks are as follows:
- The passenger side: The blind spot on the passenger side of a truck is the largest of all four. This area is the furthest away from the driver, who sits on the left, and so it is much more difficult for them to see. This blind spot starts at the front of the trailer and extends beyond the rear of the trailer. It also extends over the nearest two lanes of traffic and grows wider the further back it goes.
- The driver’s side: The blind spot on the driver’s side of the truck is the second-largest no-zone. It begins just behind the truck driver’s seat and extends for the first half of the trailer. This blind spot only extends over one lane of traffic.
- The rear of the truck: It is nearly impossible for truck drivers to see what is directly behind their vehicle. The blind spot in the rear extends for 30 feet.
- The front of the truck: Truck drivers sit very high above the ground, making it extremely difficult to see what is directly in front of the vehicle. The front blind spot extends 20 feet.
Even though it is very difficult for truck drivers to see in their blind spots, they are required to know how to do so in order to keep everyone safe. When they fail to do so, it is considered negligence and they can be held liable for any damages they cause.
Common Types of Blind Spot Accidents
The most common cause of blind spot accidents is improper lane changes made by truck drivers. When drivers fail to check their blind spots, they may change lanes and crash into another vehicle. This can cause many different types of accidents, which include:
- Underride accidents
- Rollover accidents
- Rear-end accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
These types of blind spot accidents are more likely to occur on multi-lane roads, as well as in roundabouts and intersections.
Our Blind Spot Accidents Lawyers in Houston Can Help You Claim Damages
Blind spot accidents are always serious, and they are worse when they involve a commercial truck. At Gilde Law Firm, our Houston blind spot accidents lawyers can help you claim the financial compensation you need during this difficult time while you focus on your recovery. Call us today at 800-973-3106 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
