Lane Changes

Blind Spots and Lane Changes

Drivers of semi trucks know that blind spots prevent them from seeing all the way around a truck. This means that truckers need to pay special attention when they undertake maneuvers that involve moving into a space that they cannot see. When they fail to do this while undertaking a lane change and consequently cause accidents and injuries, they and their companies can be liable for the injuries and deaths they cause.

A former trucking company executive putting his knowledge to work for you.

At the Carmel, Indiana, law firm of Wagner Reese & Crossen, our truck accident team includes a former trucking company executive, Chuck Stratis. Chuck helps our experienced attorneys effectively represent people injured in all types of tractor-trailer accidents. We help our clients obtain compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed, Chuck and the rest of our team have the experience and knowledge to uncover the details of your trucking accident. Contact us at 800-792-0332 to schedule a free initial consultation.

Drivers know they need to check blind spots carefully before a lane change

Newer trucks have devices built into the trailers to help drivers avoid accidents caused by blind spots. Unfortunately, like other truck equipment, the sensors can fail and need to be checked frequently. When they are blocked by an accumulation of ice and snow or they malfunction for other reasons, the alarm will not sound. The trucker needs to keep a proper lookout even if his or her truck is equipped with sensors or cameras.

Other causes of lane change accidents

Truck drivers changing lanes can cause accidents for other reasons, including:

• Failure to signal
• Moving into the right lane too quickly after passing
• Broken side mirrors

Wide turns are often a factor

In addition to lane change wrecks caused by blind spots and failure to keep a proper lookout, trucks need to make wide right-hand turns. This can be a cause of accidents when a trucker fails to see an oncoming vehicle in the left lane. These accidents can be particularly serious, as the truck may actually run over a smaller vehicle.

Shoulder accidents

Another related type of accident is that which occurs when a truck hits vehicles and people on the shoulder of the highway. Driver fatigue can result in a truck drifting to the side of the road, leaving the driving lane and causing an accident. Such accidents are often catastrophic because of the speed at which the truck is traveling.

If you have been injured in a collision with a semi truck, be assured that our law firm has the resources and the knowledge to help you. Our accident reconstruction specialists will be able to determine if the crash was the result of a negligent lane change. Contact our Carmel, Indiana, office today to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case.

An Indiana law firm with a national trucking accident practice