Truckers are trained to exercise extreme caution before maneuvering their large vehicles, using their mirrors and signals diligently. These massive trucks have large blind spots on all four sides where the driver has limited or zero visibility. When an 18-wheeler merges, turns, or changes lanes without carefully checking these blind spots, nearby vehicles are at risk of a serious accident.
Where Are a Truck’s Blind Spots Located?
Commercial trucks have four main blind spots that motorists should be aware of. The front blind spot is located directly in front of the truck’s cab, where the hood can obstruct the driver’s view of smaller vehicles at close range. The rear blind spot is situated behind the trailer, making it dangerous for vehicles to follow too closely.
On the driver’s side of the trailer, there is a left blind spot running along its length. The right blind spot is located on the passenger side of the truck, extending out from the cab. When driving near a commercial truck, it is very important to avoid lingering in these areas—if the driver cannot see you, then you are at a higher risk of being involved in a collision.
How Do Blind Spot Accidents Happen?
Most blind spot truck accidents occur when the truck driver fails to thoroughly check their mirrors before changing lanes or turning. With limited visibility, they may not see smaller vehicles in the blind spots and sideswipe or rear-end them.
Other common causes of blind spot collisions include:
- Abrupt lane changes without signaling
- Merging too quickly
- Making wide right turns
- Drifting into other lanes
- Backing up without assistance
Additionally, a trucker’s working conditions can heighten the risk of blind spot accidents. Inadequate training may leave drivers ill-prepared to properly monitor and navigate their vehicle’s blind spots, while poorly maintained mirrors, cameras, and sensors can fail to alert them to the presence of nearby cars.
Financial Responsibility for Blind Spot Accidents in Nevada
Commercial truck drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly. This includes taking extra precautions to check blind spots before maneuvering the massive truck. When the trucker fails to uphold their responsibilities and a collision happens, they may be financially liable for the resulting damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
In many cases, the trucking company can be held accountable for their driver’s actions under the legal concept of vicarious liability. This means that if the trucker was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the crash, the company may bear responsibility for compensating the victims. The company may also be liable if its own policies and practices led to the accident, such as hiring inexperienced drivers.
Discuss Your Case with a Nevada Truck Accident Attorney
When a truck driver’s negligence leads to a blind spot accident, the consequences can be catastrophic. During your road to recovery, the Las Vegas injury attorneys at The Janda Law Firm will stand by your side and fight for the justice you deserve. We will work to secure the full and fair compensation you need to rebuild your life and move forward with confidence. Contact us today at (702) 758-8888 and plan your next steps with a Las Vegas truck accident attorney or Las Vegas car accident lawyer.