Truck Blind Spots: Who Is Liable For an Accident?

Commercial trucks have large blind spots that can considerably limit a truck driver’s visibility. Motorists must exercise caution when passing trucks in traffic, but commercial drivers must also drive in a predictable manner and use turn signals well before making any maneuvers. As a result, determining fault in blind spot-related accidents can be challenging.

Who Could Be Liable for a Blind Spot Truck Accident? 

Multiple parties are often responsible for blind spot-related truck accidents. A passenger vehicle may argue that the truck driver was responsible, for instance, if they didn’t check their mirrors or use a blinker to change lanes. In contrast, the truck driver may blame the passenger vehicle driver for remaining in the truck’s blind spot. In some cases, the trucking company can be vicariously liable as well. For example, if their employee was negligent and performing a job duty at the time of the crash or failed to properly hire, train, supervise, and fire its employees. 

How to Prove Liability

As a victim of a blind spot truck accident, you will have the burden of proving the truck driver and/or their company is liable. That will involve a thorough investigation and evidence of negligence. To demonstrate another party is responsible, you must establish the following elements. 

Duty of Care

The defendant (at-fault party) owed you a duty of care. (e.g., a truck driver must follow the rules of the road to keep others safe)

Breach of Duty

The defendant breached that duty. (e.g., failed to check blind spot or changed lanes abruptly)

Causation

The defendant’s violation of care caused your injury. (e.g., the truck driver crashed into your vehicle, medical records of your injuries after the accident)

Damages

You suffered damages. (e.g., medical expenses, lost wages, etc.)

It will be in your best interests to hire an experienced truck accident lawyer in San Diego who knows what type of evidence is needed for a successful claim. 

Common Causes of Blind Spot Truck Accidents

Some of the more common reasons for blind spot truck accidents include:

• Motorists “hanging out” in a large truck’s blind spots by passing too slowly or following the truck too closely.
• A motorist’s lack of knowledge about blind spots.
• The truck driver tailgated another vehicle.
• The truck driver failed to check their mirrors before changing lanes.
• The trucker drove aggressively, such as cutting off another driver.

In some accidents, the passenger vehicle is not really in a blind spot, but the truck driver was distracted, often because of illegal cell phone use or impairment by drugs or alcohol. 

Where Are the Blind Spots on a Large Truck?

Semi-trucks have four primary blind spots:

• Immediately in front of the truck’s cab, extending forward for about 20 feet.
• Just below and behind the driver’s window.
• The right side of the truck’s cab, extending backward diagonally.
• Directly behind the truck’s trailer, extending for about 30 feet.

These areas are referred to as blind spots because it’s nearly impossible for truck drivers to see anything in these areas.

Contact Us Today

Unfortunately, blind spot truck collisions can lead to catastrophic injuries and damage. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident, reach out to an accomplished San Diego Truck Accident Lawyer who can help you recover the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations; call (619) 238-1811 today.