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Truck crashes linked to blind spots

Blind spots

Most semi-trucks are around 72 feet long, 8.5 feet wide, and 13.5 feet tall. They can also weigh as much as 80,000 lbs. when loaded with cargo. The size and length of a semi-truck and trailer can create blind spots on multi-lane roads. Blind spots are areas where the driver of a semi-truck can't see other road users in neighboring lanes.

Truck drivers should always be trained on how to watch out for car drivers in blind spots. Semi-trucks should also be equipped with signage warning car drivers of blind spots. Operating a large semi-truck requires a great deal of skill, experience and good judgment. Drivers of smaller cars can easily be knocked off the road or crushed underneath a trailer when a truck driver negligently changes lanes.

Where are truck blind spots located?

Truck blind spots are often located:

  • In front of the cab — truck drivers often don't see others on the road in front of them due to the height of a truck.
  • Left or right side of the cab and trailer — Both the left and right side of a semi-truck can create large blind spots that can extend along more than one lane.
  • Back of the truck — Another blind spot exists on the back of a semi-truck, which can extend several feet.

How blind spots lead to crashes and injuries

The most common types of truck crashes linked to blind spots include:

  • Rear-end collisions — a truck slams into the back of a car.
  • Lane departure accidents — a truck driver changes lanes and runs a motorist off the road or into another lane.
  • Underride crashes — a car driver gets crushed and trapped under the side or back of a trailer of a semi-truck.

Accidents caused by commercial truck drivers often result in severe injuries. Those who survive truck crashes often sustain:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Injuries to the neck, back and spine
  • Crushed limbs
  • Amputations
  • Damage to internal organs
  • Paralysis
  • Nerve damage

Get an attorney if you were hurt in a truck accident

Serious injuries such as these can mean months or years of recovery. You may also be facing high medical bills and may have a difficult time making ends meet while out of work.

Truck accident claims involving tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers, delivery trucks and other trucks can also be very tough legal cases. That’s because there may be more than one company at-fault for your accident. Our attorneys know what to do. We know what evidence matters and how to find the facts. Our legal team goes after trucking companies that try to withhold evidence. We know how to deal with them, insurance companies and anyone who stands in your way for justice.

You can also expect personal attention from the very beginning. We work directly with each client we represent. We address each case with compassion, sincerity and integrity. You’ll find our personal injury attorneys are always focused on what’s best for you. If you ever have a question or concern about your case, contact us and we will return your call. Your best interests come first at Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC.

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Charleston, WV

Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC
10 Hale St Suite 501
Charleston, WV 25301
Phone: (304) 720-1000

Columbus, OH

Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC
20 E Broad St Suite 1000
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: (614) 587-8423