Blind spot car accidents happen when a driver fails to see another vehicle, cyclist, or pedestrian due to limited visibility areas. These accidents are common on busy roads and highways, where drivers often merge or change lanes without a clear view of other vehicles. Liability in blind spot accidents can be complex, depending on different factors.
What, Exactly, Is a Blind Spot?
A blind spot is an area around a vehicle that the driver cannot see directly using mirrors. Typically located along the sides and rear of the car or truck, blind spots vary in size depending on the vehicle’s design; in large trucks or SUVs, blind spots tend to be more extensive.
Drivers often rely on side mirrors and rearview mirrors, but blind spots require extra caution. Failing to check blind spots before making a maneuver can lead to collisions with vehicles or other road users that were not initially visible.
How Does Driver Negligence Contribute to Blind Spot Accidents?
Negligence plays a significant role in many blind spot accidents. Drivers are expected to perform visual checks and use turn signals to alert others of their intentions before lane changes or turns. Failing to do so can be considered negligent behavior. When drivers make lane changes without properly checking their blind spots, they put themselves and others at risk.
Liability is not always assigned to the driver changing lanes, though. If another driver was speeding, tailgating, or attempting to pass recklessly, they could share responsibility for a blind spot accident.
Does Vehicle Design Impact Liability in Blind Spot Accidents?
Modern vehicle designs often aim to reduce blind spots with advanced technology, like blind spot monitoring systems, sensors, and cameras. Failure of these systems could shift some liability to the vehicle manufacturer or maintenance provider if they were faulty.
Are Commercial Drivers Held to Different Standards in Blind Spot Accidents?
Commercial drivers, such as those operating trucks or buses, are often held to stricter safety standards. These vehicles typically have larger blind spots, making awareness of blind spots critical for safe operation. Commercial drivers must follow regulations that govern lane changes, use of mirrors, and blind spot checks; otherwise, they may face liability for causing crashes. Their employers may also be held liable if the driver’s negligence is proven, especially if inadequate training or fatigue plays a role.
What Role Does Comparative Fault Play in Blind Spot Accidents?
Comparative fault can impact liability determinations for blind spot accidents. Under comparative fault laws, liability may be shared between parties based on their degree of responsibility.
For instance, if one driver did not check their blind spot before merging, but the other driver was also speeding, both may share fault. In these situations, compensation may be adjusted according to each driver’s percentage of fault. This means that a driver who is partially responsible for a blind spot accident may still receive compensation, but it may be reduced based on their share of liability.
What Should I Do After a Blind Spot Accident?
After a blind spot accident, it is important to gather evidence to support your account of events. Document the accident scene with photos, exchange information with other drivers, and obtain contact details for any witnesses. Having an accurate account of what happened can help determine liability.
Seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor at first, as some injuries may not show immediate symptoms. Contacting local law enforcement to file an accident report can give you an objective account of the incident, which may be valuable if liability is disputed.
Contact the Skilled Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC for Blind Spot Crash Legal Advice
If you were injured in a blind spot accident and need to understand your legal options, the Philadelphia car accident lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC can help. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call our Philadelphia and Abington, Pennsylvania, and Wilmington, Delaware, offices at 215-569-8488. We serve clients in the surrounding areas.