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How blind spots can play a role in Virginia truck accidents

On Behalf of | Apr 10, 2015 | Truck Accidents

For people on the road in Roanoke City, it is wise to keep a close eye on large trucks and be cautious when maneuvering one’s vehicle in their vicinity. This is in part due to the sheer size of these vehicles and that their drivers are often on the road for extended periods. In addition, some drivers might flout the laws as to how long they are allowed to be out on the road without a sufficient break. Another issue, that is often overlooked when there is a truck accident, is the possibility that it occurred due to a blind spot.

The “blind spot” is a term that is well-known, but many do not truly understand the dangers that are inherent when a truck driver cannot see other vehicles on the road. In some instances, it is due to the harsh realities of driving such a large vehicle. In others, it is because an unqualified truck driver does not know how to operate the vehicle safely in spite of the blind spots.

When there are signs on the truck saying, “If you can’t see my mirrors, I can’t see you,” it is due to the blind spots. When a driver is encountering a truck, it is important to know when it is likely the truck driver’s blind spot might be a problem. The blind spot is on either side of the truck where other vehicles try to pass. There is a significant amount of space that the trucker — no matter how experienced and conscientious — will simply not be able to see. Trucks are not as mobile as smaller vehicles, and an 18-wheeler accident can be much more dangerous if it is with a passenger car because of the size and weight disparity.

Experienced truckers might be able to mitigate the risk of blind spots, but if there is a truck driver who does not have that experience, or worse is an inattentive truck driver, the consequences can be terrible. If there is an accident with injuries, and it is believed to have been due to the trucker’s blind spot, it is important that the case be fully investigated by a legal advocate with the interests of the injured party in mind.

Source: Truckers Report, “Truck Blind Spots: Know the Danger Zones,” accessed on April 7, 2015

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