Blind spot truck accidents remain a significant challenge on U.S. roads. Tractor-trailers have extensive “no-zones” that can conceal entire vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians. When collisions occur in these areas, the resulting injuries are often catastrophic, raising complex legal and evidentiary questions.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 1 in 10 highway deaths involves a large truck (IIHS Fatality Statistics). This highlights how visibility limitations in commercial trucking contribute to severe outcomes.
The Scope of Truck Blind Spots
Commercial trucks have blind spots in four major areas: directly in front of the cab, as far as 200 feet behind the trailer, one lane to the left, and two lanes to the right. Passenger vehicles entering these zones may vanish entirely from a driver’s sightline.
These “no-zones” are a recognized cause of collisions, particularly during lane changes and merges. When serious injuries occur, working with personal injury attorneys may be appropriate to evaluate potential civil claims.
How Blind Spot Crashes Occur
Blind spot accidents often happen when trucks merge or change lanes without realizing another vehicle is present. Rear-end crashes may occur when a car follows too closely and disappears into the truck’s rear no-zone. Wide right turns can strike vehicles or pedestrians trapped along the curb.
Because outcomes are frequently severe, an injury lawyer can assess whether a personal injury claim is warranted and which parties may be responsible.
Injuries and Wrongful Death
The force of an 18-wheeler striking a passenger vehicle can cause traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, internal bleeding, or long-term disability. In fatal cases, surviving families may pursue claims with the guidance of a wrongful death attorney. These matters are complex, requiring careful documentation of both damages and liability.
Determining Legal Responsibility
Liability for blind spot collisions is rarely limited to the truck driver. Potentially responsible parties may include:
- Truck drivers who fail to clear blind spots before turning or changing lanes
- Trucking companies that provide inadequate training or fail to maintain safety equipment
- Manufacturers of defective mirrors, sensors, or cameras
- Cargo loaders whose shifting freight contributes to sudden maneuvers
In cases involving systemic issues, a truck accident lawyer can investigate company practices and industry compliance.
The Role of Evidence
Establishing liability requires detailed evidence. Event data recorders, dashcam footage, inspection logs, and expert reconstruction may all help explain what happened before impact. Because these records are often retained for limited periods, early consultation with personal injury lawyers is critical to protecting rights.
Legal Recovery and Broader Implications
Blind spot accidents illustrate the intersection of safety and accountability. Victims often face overwhelming medical expenses, lost income, and long-term recovery needs. A truck accident attorney can coordinate investigations, evaluate liability, and pursue claims through litigation when appropriate.
By addressing negligence at both the driver and company level, truck accident attorneys may also encourage adoption of safer practices, including the use of blind spot detection technology and improved training standards.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading this article. Laws may vary by jurisdiction. Please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your state for legal guidance specific to your situation.