Large commercial trucks have four major blind spots, often referred to as “no-zones.” These are located directly in front of the cab, directly behind the trailer, and along each side of the truck. The blind spot on the right side is the largest and most dangerous because it can extend across multiple lanes of traffic.
If you were injured in a blind spot truck accident in Oklahoma, you may have the right to file a legal claim against the responsible party. Read on to learn more about how blind spots work on a large truck and how you can recover compensation after a crash.
Where Is Each Blind Spot on a Commercial Truck?
While most people know that trucks have blind spots, many don’t realize just how large these areas actually are. Each one presents a different kind of danger to nearby drivers.
The front no-zone extends roughly 20 feet ahead of the cab. Because truck drivers sit so high off the ground, they may not be able to see a smaller vehicle that pulls in too close after passing. The rear no-zone stretches about 30 feet behind the trailer. Unlike passenger cars, most commercial trucks have no rearview mirror, so the driver has virtually no visibility directly behind them.
The left-side blind spot covers about one lane of traffic and runs along the length of the cab. The right-side blind spot is significantly larger, often spanning two full lanes or more. This is why so many blind spot accidents happen when a truck changes lanes or makes a wide right turn.
A general rule for drivers is that if you cannot see the truck driver in their side mirror, they probably cannot see you either.
What Should I Do After a Blind Spot Truck Accident?
Being involved in a truck accident is a stressful experience, but the steps you take immediately afterward can have a real impact on your ability to recover compensation. Keep the following in mind:
- Report the accident to law enforcement so that a police report is generated. This document can become a key piece of evidence later on.
- Do not apologize or accept any fault at the scene. Even a casual statement could be used against you down the line.
- Gather evidence if you are physically able to do so. Take photos of the vehicles, the roadway, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
- Get medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries take hours or even days to produce symptoms, and your medical records will serve as important evidence if you file a claim.
From here, reach out to a truck accident lawyer as soon as you can. The sooner you have legal representation, the better positioned you will be to protect your rights.
Call Gorospe Law Group for Help With Your Blind Spot Truck Accident Case
If you were involved in a blind spot truck accident in Oklahoma, you may be entitled to significant compensation. However, these cases are difficult to win without legal help in your corner.
Call Gorospe Law Group for a free consultation at 918-393-5487 to learn all about your rights and options. We’ll do everything in our power to help you maximize the value of your claim.