Truck accidents are among the most catastrophic and life-altering collisions, particularly when blind spots are involved. At Bernard Law Group, we understand how devastating these accidents can be physically and emotionally.
Our team of experienced Seattle blind spot truck accident lawyers is dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Whether you’ve been injured in a blind spot truck accident or a semi-truck crash, we’re here to help.
Understanding Blind Spot Truck Accidents
Blind spot accidents occur when truck drivers fail to see other vehicles in areas surrounding their trucks where visibility is reduced or blocked altogether. Trucks, especially large commercial vehicles such as 18-wheelers, have significantly larger blind spots than passenger vehicles. These blind spots exist on all four sides of the truck, but the most dangerous areas are typically to the right and rear of the truck.
Unfortunately, many drivers are unaware of the extent of these blind spots, or truck drivers fail to account for them when changing lanes or making turns. This often leads to severe collisions that could otherwise have been avoided.
The Four Blind Spots
Truck blind spots are commonly referred to as “No Zones.” These zones include:
- Front blind spot: Directly in front of the truck, where the driver may not see shorter vehicles.
- Right side blind spot: Extends the length of the trailer and is especially wide on the passenger side.
- Left side blind spot: Although smaller than the right side, it’s still significant and dangerous.
- Rear blind spot: Due to their size, trucks cannot see directly behind them, making tailgating particularly hazardous.
As a Seattle blind spot truck accident attorney, we recognize the complexities of these accidents and are prepared to hold negligent truck drivers accountable for their actions.
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Statistics on Blind Spot Truck Accidents
Blind spot truck accidents are unfortunately common, and the statistics are sobering:
- In 2020, there were over 4,842 fatalities in crashes involving large trucks, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Many of these fatalities were the result of blind spot accidents.
- Approximately 25% of truck accidents can be attributed to blind spot incidents, particularly when drivers change lanes without properly checking their surroundings.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that around 840,000 blind spot accidents happen annually in the U.S., with a significant number involving large trucks.
Given these alarming figures, our Seattle accident lawyers are committed to advocating for victims of blind spot accidents, helping them navigate the legal system and recover damages.
Washington State Trucking Laws and Blind Spot Accidents
In Washington State, truck drivers are held to a higher standard of care than typical drivers due to the size and danger of their vehicles. Several laws and regulations apply to truck drivers, particularly regarding blind spot awareness and lane changes.
- Washington’s Duty of Care: Under Washington state law, commercial truck drivers must exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. This includes checking blind spots and using signals before making lane changes.
- Federal Hours of Service Regulations: Truck drivers must adhere to strict hours-of-service rules set by the FMCSA, which limit the number of hours they can drive consecutively. Fatigued driving can impair a truck driver’s ability to check blind spots effectively, leading to accidents.
- FMCSA Blind Spot Regulations: Federal regulations require that truck drivers receive training on blind spot management and use mirrors and camera systems to minimize the risk of accidents caused by poor visibility.
If a truck driver fails to follow these regulations and you are injured in a blind spot accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our semi-accident attorneys in Seattle are well-versed in Washington state and federal trucking laws, and we use this knowledge to build strong cases for our clients.
Common Causes of Blind Spot Truck Accidents
Blind spot accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common include:
- Improper lane changes: Truck drivers often misjudge the space around their vehicles or fail to check blind spots adequately before switching lanes.
- Distracted driving: Inattention or distraction can prevent truck drivers from properly scanning their mirrors and checking for vehicles in their blind spots.
- Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue, reducing a driver’s ability to remain vigilant and check blind spots before maneuvering.
- Failure to use mirrors or cameras: Modern trucks are often equipped with advanced camera systems and mirrors designed to reduce blind spots. However, accidents can occur if a driver fails to use these tools properly.
Our truck accident attorneys in Seattle have extensive experience investigating the causes of blind spot truck accidents. We work with accident reconstruction experts and gather evidence, such as camera footage, driver logs, and witness statements, to build a compelling case for our clients.
How We Can Help You
At Bernard Law Group, we have a track record of securing significant settlements and verdicts for our clients in truck accident cases.
When you work with us, you can expect:
- Comprehensive Investigation: We thoroughly investigate every aspect of the accident, from reviewing truck driver logs and maintenance records to interviewing witnesses and consulting experts.
- Aggressive Negotiation: Our team of experienced accident attorneys in Seattle is skilled at negotiating with insurance companies and trucking companies to ensure you receive maximum compensation.
- Trial-Ready Representation: While many cases are settled outside of court, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial if necessary, ensuring that your rights are protected at every step.
Types of Compensation Available
If you’ve been injured in a blind spot truck accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any future medical care related to your injuries.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover compensation for your lost income.
- Pain and suffering: Truck accidents can cause not only physical pain but also emotional distress and trauma. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for these intangible losses.
- Property damage: You may be entitled to compensation for damage to your vehicle or other personal property involved in the accident.
Why Choose Bernard Law Group?
We know how challenging it can be to deal with the aftermath of a truck accident. As a blind spot truck accident attorney in Seattle, we offer compassionate, results-driven legal representation for victims and their families.
With decades of experience, we understand the trucking industry’s regulations, insurance tactics, and the unique challenges of these cases.
Proven Success
Our firm has successfully handled numerous truck accident cases, recovering millions of dollars for our clients.
We are dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve after a blind spot truck accident. You don’t have to go through this alone—let our Seattle blind spot truck accident lawyers handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.
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Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a blind spot truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Bernard Law Group today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced semi-accident attorney in Seattle. We’re ready to listen to your story, evaluate your case, and help you take the next steps toward justice.
