Blind-Spot Truck Accidents in Burbank

Heavy commercial vehicles such as tractor-trailers have significant blind spots, also called no-zones, in four locations. Truckers cannot motorists in those spots and may try to maneuver, leading to a crash.

Truck drivers are responsible for ensuring they operate the vehicles safely and within compliance, but motorists can help avoid crashes by avoiding those areas when possible. When you are hurt in an accident because a truck driver did not see you, speak to a knowledgeable truck accident attorney who has experience with cases resulting from blind-spot truck accidents in Burbank.

18-Wheeler No-Zones and Trucker Safety Rules

Remaining aware of their surroundings and other vehicles around their 18-wheeler is essential for truck operators. Using mirrors and following safety protocols helps reduce the number of no-zone crashes on roadways, even though large trucks have substantial blind spots.

Per the instructions provided by the California Commercial Driver Handbook, CDL drivers must adequately use the truck’s side mirrors and check them often. Adjusting and using mirrors properly allows operators to mitigate the risk of collisions occurring from striking motorists in blind spots. Drivers must check their mirrors regularly while moving and use special care when checking both mirrors before changing lanes, merging onto freeways, turning, and reversing.

Semi-Truck Blind Spot Locations

Semi-truck blind spots are large areas on the vehicle’s sides, rear, and front. The side no-zones stretching back and angle out into the lanes running beside them are particularly substantial. The right side can extend for up to three lanes.

The front no-zone starts at the cab and covers up to 20 feet in front of the 18-wheeler, and the back reaches for approximately 30 feet. An attorney knowledgeable about blind-spot truck crashes in Burbank could provide experienced legal advice and help collect damages from the liable party.

No-Zone Crashes

Several types of no-zone crashes are especially common.

Squeeze Play Collisions

Trucks turn slowly and require much more room than other vehicles on the roadways, so impatient motorists often attempt to overtake and pass a truck. However, a misjudgment of space can quickly become a severe collision when they are in one of the truck’s blind spots. Waiting for a truck to turn is always best, and when necessary, passing the semi-truck after turning can help avoid severe accidents and injuries.

Rear-End Crashes

Rear-end crashes are common and often result from motorists cutting off 18-wheelers. Drivers should avoid this action to reduce the chance of crashes because the substantial blind spot in the front of the truck can hinder the trucker’s visibility.

Side-Impact Accidents

When drivers travel in a truck’s right or left no-zone areas, the trucker may be unable to see them and switch lanes, causing a side-impact accident. While the responsibility ultimately falls on the trucker, avoiding those areas whenever possible helps keep motorists safe on roads and highways.

Unfortunately, blind-spot truck crashes are relatively common in Burbank. Motorists can help prevent crashes and keep themselves safe by knowing which areas around a truck to avoid.

Call a Qualified Attorney in Burbank for More Information About Blind-Spot Truck Accidents

While all automobiles have blind spots, they are more significant for heavy commercial vehicles like 18-wheelers. Operating semi-trucks is challenging, and smaller vehicles traveling in no-zones are often a reason for crashes. Truckers must complete classroom and behind-the-wheel training and understand how to use the mirrors and other safety equipment to watch for motorists traveling in zones where they cannot see them.

You could be eligible for a payment to cover the damages you sustained in a crash because the operator failed to check each zone adequately. Call a hard-working attorney experienced with blind-spot truck accidents in Burbank to review your case and options.