Blind-Spot Truck Accidents in Columbus

Commercial trucks are specifically designed to haul cargo across long distances, so they are significantly larger than standard passenger cars. Their size creates bigger blind spots that truck drivers must constantly monitor to avoid colliding with other vehicles.

Blind-spot truck accidents in Columbus happen when drivers fail to exercise reasonable care when they are on the road, which could result in devastating injuries to anyone in smaller cars. If you have been hit by a truck, you may be able to recover financial compensation for your injuries. A truck crash lawyer from The Bence Law Firm can help you understand your options and provide representation throughout the legal process.

Understanding Blind-Spots

A blind spot is an area around a vehicle that the driver cannot see. These are located directly in front, behind, and to the sides. Every type of vehicle has blind spots, but they are bigger for semi-trucks because of their large cab and long trailer. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration describes a truck’s blind spots as 30 feet behind, 20 feet in front, about one lane on the driver’s side, and two lanes on the passenger side. Accidents happen when another vehicle enters one of these spots and the driver, being unaware that something is there, continues to move and hits the other vehicle.

While other cars, bikes, and pedestrians can protect themselves by avoiding these “no-go areas,” it is still the responsibility of the truck operator to avoid collisions in Columbus. They can do this by constantly being aware of their blind spots and checking their mirrors before making a turn or lane change. Unfortunately, accidents could still happen, and the significant size difference means that the smaller car will take the brunt of the impact, which could result in devastating injuries to anyone inside.

Legal Responsibility and Possible Compensation

Operating a commercial 18-wheeler requires significantly more skill than driving a regular car. That is why truckers generally have a higher level of responsibility to drive safely, which includes checking their blind spots to make sure there is nothing else in that space. If a truck driver fails to do so and causes a collision, they could be at fault.

The trucking company that employed the driver could also be at fault, as they are responsible for their employees during the course of their duties. Commercial transportation companies are responsible for making sure their drivers are properly trained and have the necessary skills to safely operate their vehicles.

Regardless of who was ultimately at fault, injured car drivers and passengers may be able to recover economic and non-economic damages from the trucker’s insurance or their company’s insurance policy. Economic damages are the quantifiable costs associated with the crash, which could include costs like hospital bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, and repairing or replacing the car. Non-economic damages are a little more complicated because these are intangible losses, such as emotional distress and pain and suffering.

Costs can add up quickly, particularly in truck crashes, as the massive vehicle is capable of causing significant destruction. The insurance company will likely offer a settlement that is substantially lower than the amount a victim deserves. They are more concerned with their bottom line than the health and well-being of people hurt in an accident.

Anyone hit in an 18-wheeler’s blind spot should have a Columbus attorney represent their interests against the big insurance company. Having a lawyer by your side can help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Get Help With Your Blind Spot Truck Crash Case from a Columbus Attorney

Blind-spot truck accidents in Columbus are avoidable by simply driving safely, but they can still happen and leave you with serious injuries. If you have been hurt, discuss your situation with a lawyer from the Bence Law Firm.

Whether negotiating with the insurance company or taking your case to court, a devoted attorney can be there to provide guidance and support. Call the Bence Law Firm, LLC to talk to a lawyer about your case.