All vehicles have blind spots which prevent the driver from seeing obstacles around them. However, tractor-trailers and other large commercial trucks have large blind spots that extend dozens of feet in front of and behind the truck, which can stretch across entire lanes of traffic.
To mitigate these dangers, trucks have extra-large side mirrors and extensive training for checking blind spots before switching lanes or turning. However, blind-spot truck accidents in Houston do happen and they can lead to severe injuries for motorists and passengers in smaller vehicles.
Unfortunately, fighting these cases in civil court can be challenging without substantial legal education. If you or a loved one has been injured in this type of situation, an experienced truck accident lawyer can help you gather evidence and hold liable parties responsible for your injuries.
Proving Liability After a Blind Spot Truck Accident
Commercial trucks have large side mirrors and many modern trucks have advanced collision detection systems to decrease the risk of accidents. However, truck drivers must use safety mechanisms correctly and practice known safety procedures to avoid collisions with other vehicles. These accidents are often the result of distracted or reckless driving or inexperience.
The cause of a blind spot wreck determines who is at fault and liable for injuries that occur. The truck driver may be entirely at fault if they are driving distracted, while intoxicated, or fail to follow traffic laws. The trucking company may also be responsible if the driver lacks adequate training, the truck hasn’t been properly maintained or repaired, or the company doesn’t observe trucking safety regulations.
Types of Compensation for Truck Accidents
Because of their sheer size, vehicle collisions involving large trucks are among the most catastrophic. The impact of a truck can cause substantial vehicle damage and serious injuries, including head and neck injuries, paralysis, broken limbs, etc. Such injuries require extensive and costly medical treatment and long recovery times. Permanent injuries are not uncommon, and some accidents result in loss of life.
Depending on the specific details of the accident, victims may be eligible for the following types of compensation.
- Past and future medical expenses: Costs of medical treatment, including surgeries, medical treatments, therapy, and assistive tools, including future treatment costs
- Lost income: Lost wages while recovering from injuries and diminished earning ability
- Property damage: Costs of vehicle repair or replacement
- Non-economic damages: Compensation for non-quantifiable damages including psychological trauma, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life
- Home renovations: Necessary renovations to accommodate physical disabilities caused by the accident
All drivers have a responsibility to practice safe driving. Motorists in Houston can avoid blind spot truck accidents by being aware of blind spots and avoiding them. Blind spots are directly in front of and behind the truck, extending at least 20 feet, and on each side of the truck, starting at the door and ending at the back of the truck. If you cannot see the driver in the truck’s side mirror, you should assume the driver cannot see you.
Contact a Houston Attorney About a Blind-Spot Truck Accident
Blind-spot truck accidents in Houston cause severe accidents leaving victims with severe injuries that can be life-threatening, permanent, or even fatal. If you or a loved one was injured due to poor visibility, a personal injury lawyer can help you get fair compensation for your injuries. Schechter Shaffer & Harris can help you gather evidence, investigate the accident, and support you through the claims process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to learn your legal options.
