Why Are Truck Accidents so Dangerous?

Crashes involving semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles are some of the most violent on the road. This is partly because of the truck’s size and partly because it takes such skill and training to drive a commercial truck. One rule that commercial drivers must be aware of is the “no zone.” This area around the truck is essentially a large blind spot, meaning the driver cannot see vehicles in this area.

If you are suffering from injuries received in an accident caused by a negligent truck driver or trucking company, you deserve relief from your expenses. Contact the experienced lawyers at Shariff Law Firm, PLLC by calling 713-244-8392 to find out how we can help you recover the full compensation you deserve.

What is the “No-Zone” on Commercial Trucks?

Most trucks have blind spots where they cannot see other vehicles. These zones are on the side, in front, and directly behind the truck. It is impossible for the driver to check these blind spots because of the trailer behind the truck, so other drivers must be aware of these zones and avoid them to prevent dangerous crashes.

The following spots are the most hazardous “no-zone” areas for commercial vehicles:

Front “No-Zone”

Most large trucks have oversized engines, meaning the drivers cannot see 20 to 30 feet in front of them. Merging too closely in front of a truck could put you in their blind spot.

Rear “No-Zone”

Commercial trucks don’t have rear-view mirrors, typically because the large trailer behind them blocks their view. Most truck drivers cannot see approximately 30 feet behind the truck at all times.

Right “No-Zone”

The right side “no-zone” is often called one of the most dangerous areas around a commercial truck. This “no-zone” extends from the right side of the cab all the way to two lanes over, going backward at a diagonal. Although truckers do have large side mirrors, since they drive on the left side of the cab, they often cannot see much of anything on the right side of the truck.

Left “No-Zone”

Drivers sit on the left side of the cab, so this “no-zone” is smaller than the right side. However, drivers typically cannot see from the front side of the cab all the way to one lane over, extending backward diagonally.

A good rule of thumb to remember is that if you cannot see the truck driver’s face in the truck’s side mirrors, then they cannot see you or your vehicle.

How Can I Avoid “No-Zones”?

Driving next to or near a large truck is unavoidable. However, there are some tips you can keep in mind to stay out of “no-zones” when driving.

Pass Large Trucks Quickly

Try not to linger in a truck’s blind spot for long periods of time. Instead, pass them quickly, and avoid passing on the right side whenever possible.

Stay 30 Feet Away From Large Trucks

Most large trucks have a blind spot of 20 to 30 feet around the entire vehicle. If you’re driving near a large truck, keep your distance to avoid driving in their blind spot.

Similarly, don’t merge in front of them or follow behind them too closely.

Look for the Driver’s Face

If you’re worried that you’re too close to a large truck, look for the driver’s face in the truck’s side mirrors. If you cannot see the driver’s face, they likely can’t see your vehicle, which means you need to get out of their blind spot as soon as possible.

Watch Out for Wide Turns

Big trucks tend to take large turns, especially right turns. If the truck ahead of you signals that they’re turning, give them a wide berth, especially on the right side, to avoid being hit.

Focus on the Road

Distracted driving is dangerous, especially when you’re driving around large trucks. Always keep your eyes on the road, and avoid distracting or dangerous activities, like texting.

Be Patient With Large Trucks

Although it can be frustrating to be stuck behind a slow semi-truck, remember that they have more restrictions and regulations they have to follow on the road than you do. When you’re driving near a large truck, be patient with them so you can drive calmly and with a level head.

What Damages Can I Collect for My Truck Crash Injuries?

If you have been injured in a truck crash that was not your fault, you could collect damages for the expenses incurred.

Some items that could be considered for compensation in a commercial vehicle accident are:

  • Past and future medical bills
  • Ambulance costs
  • Hospital stays
  • Specialist visits
  • Past and future lost income
  • Lost earning capacity
  • Disfigurement
  • Emotional trauma
  • Past and future pain and suffering
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

Should You Hire Our Truck Accident Attorneys?

Please seek immediate medical attention if you have been involved in a truck accident. Once you have been treated by a medical professional, you should speak with an attorney to determine if pursuing compensation is right in your case. They can help collect evidence of your innocence and provide documentation that shows you deserve the maximum compensation for your injuries.

At our law firm, we have helped countless clients seek justice by recovering damages for their truck accident injuries. These accidents are more likely to be catastrophic than other car crashes, leading to high medical costs and inability to work. You deserve better for yourself and your family. Contact us today to learn how we can get you the damages you are owed following your accident with a large truck. Call 713-244-8392 right away to speak with our talented legal team.