Blind Spot Truck Accidents in Indianapolis

Truckers must consistently operate their vehicles in a defensive and safe manner. The sheer size of these automobiles can put others on the road at serious risk of harm.

Several types of crashes can be catastrophic. However, drivers in blind spot truck accidents in Indianapolis are especially prone to severe injuries. Call a truck crash attorney with McCready Law for legal assistance in the aftermath of a collision.

How Do Blind Spot Truck Crashes Happen?

Trucks are larger than other vehicles on the roadway, and there are often areas where the driver cannot see using their mirrors, commonly referred to as blind spots.

When a car travels in these areas, a trucker may not realize they are there. This can lead to dangerous maneuvers that cause both vehicles to collide. Given the size difference between a car and an 18-wheeler, the driver and passengers of the smaller vehicle could suffer severe or fatal injuries.

Accidents occur when one of the parties attempts to switch lanes after being in a truck’s blind spot. For example, if a trucker decides to change lanes and does not see the vehicle in its blind spot, a crash could happen. These wrecks are also common when a truck backs up or parks.

Typical Blind Spots on a Truck

Several areas are considered blind spots on a truck, including the following:

  • Directly in front of the grill
  • Directly behind the truck
  • Along the sides of the truck

As much as mirrors may help with visibility, truckers cannot see every inch around them. An Indianapolis attorney could help their client pursue compensation after a blind spot truck collision.

How to Prove Negligence in a Truck Accident

If a reasonably safe person would or would not have taken specific actions, this is the test for negligence. An individual can be negligent simply by not paying attention. If a reasonable party in the same circumstances would have acted differently, this might point to negligence, but it is ultimately determined on a case-by-case basis.

How Much Negligence Can Be Attributed to a Car Driver?

Several parties may cause a wreck. However, the negligence of all responsible individuals must add up to 100%, meaning a driver could be anywhere between 1% and 99% at fault.

The amount of fault attributed to the motorist will impact the ability to make a full recovery. If a person injured by a blind spot truck crash in Indianapolis is found to be 25% responsible for their own injuries, then any recovery for damages will be reduced by 25%. This is called contributory negligence.

Damages for Blind Spot Truck Accidents

A person in a blind spot truck crash in Indianapolis could suffer several losses, including both economic and non-economic damages. The first, economic damages, refer to losses that can be calculated, such as:

  • Property damage
  • Lost wages and working capacity
  • Medical bills
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Funeral expenses

However, non-economic damages are more subjective and can involve the following:

  • Physical pain and suffering
  • Loss of consortium
  • Emotional trauma
  • Mental anguish

A dedicated Indianapolis lawyer could investigate a client’s blind spot truck accident case and help calculate damages for their case.

Technology Available to Truckers to Help Navigate Blind Spots

Technology has been helpful in preventing blind spot injuries. Trucks can have sensors in their blind spot, alerting the driver to a vehicle that may not have been visible in the mirrors.

Similarly, newer passenger vehicles have a feature to warn the driver that another vehicle is in close enough proximity to make changing lanes a hazard. Even with these safety warning devices, motorists must always pay attention to the traffic conditions and the vehicles surrounding them while driving.

Partner With an Indianapolis Attorney Today to Pursue Compensation for a Blind Spot Truck Accident

When you or your loved one has been severely injured in a blind spot truck accident in Indianapolis, you deserve to be made whole again. These cases can be complex to navigate, and pursuing damages is no easy task.

A hardworking personal injury attorney with McCready Law could guide you throughout the legal process. Schedule an initial consultation with our reliable team today to learn more.