Fighting For Victims Of Serious Commercial Truck Accidents
Highway fatalities and serious collisions along Tennessee interstates frequently involve trucks. Even the safest passenger vehicles on the road cannot stand up to a collision with a loaded commercial truck that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds — a 40:1 weight difference. Because of the size and power of these vehicles, the injuries can be catastrophic.
Common Causes Of Trucking Accidents
Certain truck driver behaviors and the policies of trucking companies can increase the likelihood of serious tractor-trailer accidents. This conduct is often motivated by a desire to save time or cut costs:
- Driver fatigue due to excessive operating hours
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Poor driver training or screening
- Overloaded trucks
- Driving in unsafe weather conditions
- Excessive speed
- Driving under the influence
Unfortunately, 18-wheeler accidents are particularly capable of producing serious catastrophic injuries such as:
Where Are Blind Spots On Large Commercial Trucks?
Large commercial trucks have many blind spots that make it difficult for drivers to see nearby vehicles. Knowing where these blind spots are, how truck drivers are trained to manage them and what safe driving etiquette looks like can help regular drivers reduce accident risk and avoid situations that could lead to liability.
Blind spots on large commercial trucks exist on all sides of the vehicle, not just directly behind it. These areas are commonly referred to as no-zones because they are places where passenger vehicles can disappear from a truck driver’s view, even when mirrors are properly adjusted.
The primary blind spots include:
- Front blind spot: Trucks have a large area directly in front of the cab where smaller vehicles cannot be seen, especially when stopped at intersections or in traffic.
- Rear blind spot: Because trucks do not have rearview mirrors like passenger cars, vehicles following too closely may be completely invisible to the driver.
- Driver-side blind spot: While smaller than the passenger-side blind spot, the left blind spot still limits visibility, particularly during lane changes.
- Passenger-side blind spot: This is the largest and most dangerous blind spot, extending multiple lanes outward and along the length of the trailer.
Staying out of these areas whenever possible allows truck drivers more time and space to react, which reduces the likelihood of a collision and questions of fault.
Truck drivers are trained to manage blind spots using mirrors, careful lane positioning and defensive driving techniques. However, even with training, blind spots cannot be eliminated.
Drivers of passenger vehicles should understand that truck drivers may not see them and may make wide turns or gradual lane changes that require extra space. Key etiquette rules drivers should follow include:
- Passing trucks promptly and on the left when possible.
- Avoiding lingering alongside a trailer.
- Allowing extra following distance behind trucks.
- Never cutting in closely after passing.
These practices help demonstrate responsible behavior if an accident occurs and liability is later evaluated.
When accidents happen, questions will arise about visibility, reaction time and reasonable driving behavior. Our attorney understands commercial vehicle dynamics, trucking regulations and liability standards. With this knowledge, we can protect your rights and accurately address faults in these complex cases.
Our Approach To Your Case
Knowing how to conduct a thorough investigation is essential for building a strong case. We can secure and review driving records, criminal histories, logbooks and the black box-type data collection devices that some drivers and trucking companies use. By gathering all necessary evidence and working with professionals such as accident reconstruction experts, we can build a solid foundation for your case.
Decades Of Experience Make A Difference
At The Kennedy Law Firm, PLLC, whether you are from Tennessee or are an out-of-state resident who has been involved in a truck accident, our attorneys have the experience you need to recover compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, property loss, loss of income, and pain and suffering successfully. We bring together more than 75 years of combined experience along with a commitment to doing the right thing for each and every one of our clients.
Truck Accident Lawyers Serving Clarksville And Throughout Tennessee
For representation that knows how to fight for you after a trucking accident, turn to The Kennedy Law Firm, PLLC. Accident victims generally have up to one year from the date of the accident to file a claim; however, they should not delay, as filing promptly can improve their chances of achieving a favorable outcome. To schedule a free initial consultation, call 931-444-5620 or contact us online.
We take personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis. We collect no attorney fees unless we secure compensation for you.