Tractor-trailers have several blind-spots that can make it difficult for operators to see the other vehicles around them. If a truck driver fails to check these blind-spots, it could cause a serious accident. When a large commercial vehicle collides with a car, the occupants of the smaller automobile are more likely to suffer severe injuries.
If you were in a collision with a tractor-trailer driver who did not see you, get in touch with a Sugar Land blind-spot truck accident lawyer. You may be able to file a personal injury claim. Call a skilled Sugar Land truck wreck attorney who could help you pursue compensation for your injuries.
Understanding a Tractor-Trailer’s Blind-Spots
Almost every vehicle on the road has blind-spots. However, large commercial trucks and tractor-trailers have much larger blind-spots than other cars. These spots are located on all four sides of the vehicle. Due to the size and shape of most trucks, operators typically cannot see in the following areas:
- Within 20 feet of the front of the cab
- Within 30 feet of the rear of the trailer
- Up to two lanes from the right side of the vehicle
- To the left and slightly behind the cab
If there are poor weather conditions on the road, it may be even more difficult to see smaller cars. To prevent accidents, truckers must also use appropriate turning signals and take caution while turning, changing lanes, or merging on the highway. A local attorney can assist injured parties in identifying the cause of their blind-spot truck accidents.
Establishing Liability in a Blind-spot Truck Wreck
A careless truck driver in an accident case may be held legally responsible for the wreck if the injured party can establish fault. To prove liability, one must show the defendant owed a duty of care to the injured party. Further, the plaintiff must prove the negligent party breached that duty, directly causing the accident and the resulting damages. If truck drivers fail to check their blind-spots or use proper signals, that may constitute a breach of their duty of care.
Other entities, such as the company employing the driver may able also be liable for a crash. Trucking companies are responsible for screening their applicants and ensuring their employees are competent and well-trained.
If the trucking company hires reckless drivers, they may be partially responsible for any accidents caused by their employees. A lawyer skilled at handling blind-spot truck accident cases could help injured motorists gather evidence to establish negligence.
Time Limit for Pursuing a Claim in Sugar Land
Anyone considering filing a lawsuit for a blind-spot tractor-trailer wreck should as quickly. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, potential plaintiffs must file their case within two years of the date of the accident.
Those who do not meet this deadline could be barred from recovering compensation. It is crucial to hire a lawyer to keep track of these types of legal deadlines in a blind-spot truck accident case.
A Sugar Land Blind-Spot Truck Accident Attorney Can Help
Navigating a personal injury claim can be difficult, especially for those recovering from catastrophic injuries. A Sugar Land blind-spot truck accident lawyer could support you through the case process. Call our office today to speak with an attorney and schedule a free case consultation.