What Truckers See While Driving – Stay out of Truck “No Zones”
When truck accidents occur involving other motorists, the damages to these drivers can be severe. With little to protect them against the large size and bulk of semi-tractor trailers and 18 wheelers, injuries can be life-threatening and potentially fatal. Unfortunately, many drivers unaware of what truckers see while driving. Trucking blind spots, commonly referred to as ‘no zones’, are often a contributing factor in these accidents and are something all drivers need to be aware of.
Truck Blind Spots or ‘No Zones’
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) advises that trucks have numerous limitations due to their size and weight that can impact other drivers when traveling on roads, highways, and interstates. In addition to requiring extra space when making turns and additional time to respond to changes in traffic conditions, trucks and tractor trailers have large blind spots on all sides of their rig that severely limit what truckers see while driving.
The FMCSA states that these ‘no zones’ are a leading contributing factor in car accidents, and can make sharing the road with heavy trucks particularly dangerous for drivers. These blind spots are located in the following areas:
- In front of the truck, extending out 20 feet
- In the back, extending 30 feet or more
- On the left side, taking up the whole next lane from the front of the truck to midway alongside
- On the right side, extending the length of the cab in the lane closest to the truck
- Two lanes over on the right, truck blind spots extend along the entire length of the truck
As a general rule of thumb, if you cannot see the truck driver in their rearview mirrors, it is likely that they cannot see you
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
Truck Accident Injuries
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), there are close to 4,500 truck accidents which occur each year in our state, causing injuries to roughly 1,500 and claiming nearly 100 lives. The majority of these do not occur on major interstates, but on secondary and primary roads in our area, and the majority of those injured or killed
are drivers in other vehicles. Common types of truck accident injuries include:
- Multiple broken bones and severe fractures
- Crushing injuries, causing internal bleeding and damage to organs
- Burns, due to chemical spills and contact with oil, fuel, or flames
- Back and neck injuries, including those impacting the spinal cord
- Severe head injuries, including skull fractures, concussions, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
After a truck accident, make sure you get the proper medical attention. Even if first responders did not take to a hospital, see a doctor as soon as possible because hidden injuries can take a huge toll later. Next, contact a truck accident lawyer Florence to discuss your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation and fair settlement with the truck company or the truck driver as an independent contractor. If you go against truck companies, the settlement negotiations will be tough, most likely, as they want to protect themselves. Your attorney will fight fiercely for a just recovery and even prepare a case for the court if necessary.
Been In An Accident? Call A Truck Accident Attorney
If you or someone you care about is involved in an accident resulting from what truckers see while driving, call or contact Anastopoulo Law Firm online and request a free consultation today. Our South Carolina truck accident attorney provides the compassionate, professional legal representation you need when serious and potentially fatal injuries occur. We can act as strong legal advocates to ensure your rights are protected and to assist you in getting the compensation you deserve.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
