Truck accidents are among the most dangerous and deadly types of accidents. Generally, a passenger vehicle is no match for a collision with a semi-truck. As a result, almost 70% of people who die in truck accidents drive cars and other passenger vehicles.
Many semi-truck accidents can be attributed to truck driver error or negligence. However, countless other collisions happen because passenger vehicle drivers are unaware of truck driver blind spots. For that reason, understanding where a semi truck’s blind spots are located can help to keep you and your family safer while traveling.
If you’ve been involved in a semi-truck accident, don’t wait until it’s too late to pursue damages. Contact an experienced Florida truck accident lawyer at Schrier Law Group today to discuss your case.
In this article, we discuss the blind spots you should be aware of and how to avoid them.
What’s Considered a Semi Truck Blindspot?
Just like cars, trucks have blind spots that limit the driver’s vision of certain areas on the road. However, truck blind spots are much larger, and a lack of awareness of a truck driver’s blind spots can lead to devastating consequences. Continue reading to learn the top truck blind spots you should be aware of while driving.
Semi-Truck Blindspots to be Aware of
Generally, you should be aware of the four major blind spots on a truck. They include the No-zone areas in the front, rear, and on the left and right sides. Driving too closely in any of these no-zones is not only dangerous for you but could also lead to deadly consequences for other drivers on the road. Learn more about each no-zone blind spot below.
No-Zone At The Front
Drivers of large trucks sit much higher than typical passenger vehicle drivers. As a result, it’s almost impossible for them to see cars or other objects directly in front of them. If you notice a truck is too close to your rear, it’s in your best interest to immediately create distance between yourself and the truck driver. Otherwise, it could result in a dangerous and potentially deadly rear-end collision.
No-Zone on The Left
The blind spot on a truck’s left side includes the area directly behind the cabin on the left side. Generally, the left side blind spot is much smaller than the right. However, it’s still best to leave one to two car length spaces between your vehicle and the truck when on the left side of a semi.
No-Zone on The Right
The right side no-zone is almost double the length of the blind spot on the left. The right side no-zone includes the area directly behind the truck’s cabin on the right. Generally, it’s recommended to leave several car lengths of space between your vehicle and the truck’s right-side blind spot. Otherwise, you are more susceptible to collisions.
No-Zone At The Rear
You’ve likely noticed the “keep at least 300 feet distance” sign on the back of most trucks. Since most trucks don’t have rear cameras or rearview mirrors, it’s incredibly difficult for a truck driver to see behind them. With that in mind, it’s in your best interest to stay as far behind a truck as possible. If you’re in bumper-to-bumper traffic, it may be best to switch lanes.
Who’s Responsible For Semi-Truck Blind Spot Accidents?
Generally, most vehicles (large and small) have blind spots. Eliminating blind spots isn’t always possible, especially for truck drivers. However, it’s essential to note that drivers are typically responsible for blind spot accidents when backing up, switching lanes, or turning. Truck drivers are expected to account for blind spots when maneuvering their vehicles.
That means that blind spots are not a viable defense in most truck accident cases. If you’ve suffered injuries resulting from a truck collision, it’s recommended that you immediately consult with a top-rated Florida truck accident lawyer. Learn more below.
Contact The Best Florida Truck Accident Lawyer Today
Our attorneys at Schrier Law Group have successfully obtained more than $500 million for our personal injury clients. That includes a recent $2 million truck accident settlement. We’re confident that we can obtain the best possible outcome in your truck accident case as well.
If you’ve been injured as a result of a blind spot accident with a semi-truck, you may be eligible for maximum compensation. Hiring a skilled truck accident lawyer is key to the success of your case.
