Blind-Spot Truck Accidents in Philadelphia

Commercial trucks, such as tractor-trailers, have much larger blind spots, or no-zones, than other passenger vehicles. Truckers undergo extensive training and testing to receive a Commercial Driver’s License or CDL, and part of that involves learning to check their blind spots regularly and before maneuvers.

You could be eligible for compensation when in a collision with a trucker who failed to check their no-zones before switching lanes, merging, or making another maneuver. Speak to a diligent semi-truck attorney seasoned in cases resulting from blind-spot truck accidents in Philadelphia to learn more.

Where are Semi-Truck No-Zones?

Semi-trucks have four significant blind spots:

• The Right Side No-Zone is located on the right side of the vehicle and runs the length of the trailer, reaching out for approximately three lanes
• The Left Side No-Zone begins behind the cab and extends back at an angle, reaching over for about two lanes
• The Front No-Zone starts at the front bumper and may extend as much as 20 feet in front of the truck
• The Back No-Zone is a huge blind spot directly behind the trailer, and vehicles should avoid tailgating them at all times

An attorney knowledgeable about blind-spot truck crashes in Philadelphia could answer specific questions after reviewing a case’s specifics.

Safety Tips for Passenger Vehicle Drivers

Commercial truck drivers receive extensive training and must check each blind spot before maneuvering. However, other motorists can also take steps to keep themselves safer on roadways.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, drivers can follow the below safety measures to help avoid blind-spot crashes with semi-trucks:

Avoid Lingering in Trucker Blind Spots

Avoid staying in the truck driver’s four no-zones whenever possible. When motorists cannot see the trucker in the semi’s side mirror, the trucker cannot see them either.

Anticipate Wide Turns for 18-Wheelers

Large tractor-trailers need more room than other vehicles for turns. A truck swings out and to the side while turning with a radius of 55 feet. Other drivers should never try to speed around a semi to avoid waiting for them to complete the turn.

Prepare for Long Stopping Distances for Semi-Trucks

While passenger vehicles require approximately 65 feet to stop when traveling 60 miles per hour, semi-trucks require much more. Generally, an 18-wheeler driving 60 miles per hour requires 525 feet to come to a complete stop.

Merge and Pass Commercial Trucks Cautiously

Motorists need to remain vigilant and safe when merging and passing semi trucks. This can be done through the following:

• Check to ensure the trucker can see them in their side mirror before merging
• When tractor-trailers are merging, give them space to move over safely
• Avoid passing semi-trucks on the right whenever possible
• Be aware that massive commercial trucks pick up speed when traveling down hills or mountains

The agency also advises that drivers fasten their seat belts and remain patient while traveling in order to prevent wrecks. A lawyer experienced with cases resulting from Philadelphia blind-spot truck crashes could investigate the evidence needed to prove fault.

Call an Attorney Seasoned in Philadelphia Blind-Spot Truck Accidents

Truck drivers are ultimately responsible for checking no-zones thoroughly before changing lanes or performing other maneuvers. Even so, motorists can help keep themselves safe by using caution and vigilance while traveling around semis.

Drivers who cut off large tractor-trailers or travel within the vehicle’s no-zones increase the risk of severe collisions with devastating consequences. For more information, speak to a hard-working personal injury lawyer who has experience with cases resulting from blind-spot truck accidents in Philadelphia.