Blind-spot truck accidents happen when a truck driver fails to see a vehicle in one of their many blind spots, leading to a potentially devastating collision. Due to their size and length, commercial trucks have large blind spots on all four sides, especially along the sides and rear, making it dangerously easy for nearby vehicles to go unnoticed if the driver is not fully aware and cautious.
If you have been injured in a blind-spot truck accident in Tulsa, our attorneys are ready to help. We can investigate the crash, gather critical evidence, and advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process. Our seasoned truck accident lawyers are skilled in determining liability, negotiating with insurance companies, and, when needed, litigating in court to pursue full compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other related losses.
Commercial tractor-trailers have large blind spots due to their size, height, and the position of the driver’s seat. These blind spots are most pronounced at the front, sides, and rear. The height of the tractor-trailer limits the driver’s ability to see directly in front, especially near the ground. Also, the truck’s length creates significant blind spots on both sides, with the right side often experiencing the greatest visibility restrictions.
Unlike passenger vehicles, tractor-trailers generally do not have a rearview mirror. This means drivers must rely heavily on side mirrors, which can still leave blind spots behind the trailer. The large blind spots around tractor-trailers are often referred to as “No-Zones,” as they are areas where a truck driver cannot see other vehicles.
Blind-spot truck incidents in Tulsa often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of the trucks, which generate powerful impacts that can cause significant harm. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal organ damage, and fatalities. These accidents can also cause whiplash, neck and back injuries, and long-term disabilities.
In blind-spot truck accidents in Tulsa, liability often falls on negligent truck drivers, but responsibility can also extend to trucking companies, maintenance providers, and even vehicle manufacturers. Truck drivers are legally responsible for ensuring their surroundings are clear before merging or changing lanes. This includes properly using mirrors and making visual checks to avoid striking vehicles hidden in blind spots.
Several factors can contribute to these collisions. Driver distractions, such as using a phone, eating, or driving while fatigued, can significantly impair awareness and reaction time. Substance use, whether alcohol or drugs, further diminishes judgment and increases the risk of a blind-spot crash. Inadequate mirror adjustment, poor maintenance, or dirty mirrors can also reduce visibility and make it difficult to detect nearby vehicles.
Trucking companies play a critical role in preventing these accidents. They are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, providing thorough training on blind-spot awareness and safe lane changes, and ensuring vehicles are equipped with and maintain essential safety equipment like mirrors, cameras, and sensors. When companies pressure drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines or ignore hours-of-service regulations, they may be held liable for accidents caused by driver fatigue.
Victims of blind-spot truck crashes may be entitled to compensation when negligence is a factor, whether on the part of the driver, their employer, or another responsible party. Recoverable damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and, in tragic cases, wrongful death compensation.
After blind-spot truck accidents in Tulsa, our attorneys could investigate all available sources of coverage. These sources may include the truck driver’s insurance, the trucking company’s insurance, and any applicable uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
Our attorneys could handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf, protecting you from being misled or manipulated. We could negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance companies to compensate you for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn about your best legal options.
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