Blind Spot & No Zone Accidents

Blind Spot & No Zone Accidents

Both automobiles and semi-trucks have blind spots, however blind spots with semi-trucks can be extremely dangerous and are among the leading causes of accidents involving trucks. “No zones” are blind spots, just on a much larger scale. Failure to check blind spots or no zones may be considered negligent, leaving the truck driver or company responsible for an accident.

Understanding Truck No Zones and Blind Spots

Truck no zones refer to larger blind spots present for semi-truck drivers which obstruct the view more than a typical blind spot would. There are several types of no zones you should be aware of when driving around or near a large truck:

• Front no zones: these no zones refer to the front cab of the truck obstructing the view of the road directly in front of the vehicle.
• Rear no zones: semi-trucks have large blind spots behind their trailer. If you are tailgating a semi-truck, they likely cannot see you and the risk of an accident is high if the truck driver should need to stop quickly.
• Right and left no zones: a truck driver’s visibility is impaired on both sides of the truck. If you cannot see the driver’s face in the side mirrors, or the side mirrors in general, you may be following too closely and in the truck’s no zone blind spot.

It is also extremely important to know that semi-trucks require much more space to make turns than smaller automobiles. If you are sitting to the right or left of the truck while they are angling to swing a turn, you may be in their blind spot.

Steps to Take Following an Accident

Auto and truck accidents are scary, especially if there are injuries or damages involved. If you have been in an accident, take the following steps:

1. Stay calm and get to safety

Don’t panic. First, get to a safe location and ensure you and all passengers are safe and uninjured. Your safety is always the top priority.

2. Check for injuries

Check yourself and passengers for injuries if you are able. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.

3. Call the police

Contact law enforcement to file an official accident report. Be sure to stay at the scene of the crash.

4. Document the accident

Documenting the accident is an important part of building your case. Take photos of the scene if you are able and record all details.

5. Collect information

Collect names and information from other drivers and passengers involved in the accident, including license plate numbers, insurance information, names and contact information of any witnesses.

6. Seek medical attention

Even if you don’t have visible injuries, it is important to get checked by a doctor. Injuries from an accident can take days or months to appear.

7. Inform your insurance company

Make an accident report to your automobile or truck insurance company. Don’t sign any documents or give any statements until you have spoken with an attorney.

8. Call an attorney

The experienced Indiana auto accident attorneys at WKW specialize in assisting people who have been involved in accidents. Our team can help you navigate the legal process of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Use Caution When Driving Near Semi-Trucks

Driving around semi-trucks requires greater care than with any other vehicle. Trucks are significantly heavier and larger than cars and SUVs, and the chance of an accident occurring are greater.

Determining Liability in Blind Spot and No Zone Accidents

Truck drivers receive special training and are responsible for keeping themselves and other drivers on the road safe. If an accident occurs due to a truck driver failing to check their blind spots and no zones, you may be eligible for the following compensation:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical care if permanent disability occurs
• Loss of wages and future earning potential
• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damages

Factors that may put an automobile driver at risk for fault of the accident include speeding, tailgating, passing incorrectly, or other unsafe, negligent behavior.

Contact WKW Today

The attorneys at Wilson Kehoe Winingham have extensive experience in auto accidents and semi-truck accidents. We serve clients throughout Indianapolis who have experienced the traumatic event of a crash to receive the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one have been involved in a blind spot or no zone auto accident, contact the legal team at WKW today. Call 317.920.6400 or fill out an online contact form for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

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