Every motor vehicle has blind spots, but large trucks and 18-wheelers have much bigger blind spots than the average car. Truck drivers have blind spots on all four sides of the truck, referred to as the “No Zone.” If truck drivers aren’t careful and do not properly monitor their blind spots or switch lanes, they can contribute to severe No Zone accidents in Texas. Make sure to speak with an experienced truck accident attorney in San Antonio for legal guidance.
What Is a No Zone Truck Accident?
A “No Zone accident” describes a commercial trucking accident that involves a vehicle in one of the truck’s large blind spots. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration named it the “No Zone” because motor vehicle drivers should avoid it, or treat these areas as places for no driving as much as possible (especially hovering).
Where Is a Truck’s No Zone?
A typical passenger car will have blind spots to the left and right, meaning areas of the surrounding roadway that are not visible to the driver in his or her mirrors. Unlike a car, a tractor-trailer has blind spots on all four sides of the vehicle.
A big rig’s No Zone extends to the following places:
- About 20 feet directly in front of the truck.
- About 30 feet to the rear of the truck.
- Up to three lanes of traffic on the right side of the truck.
- Up to two lanes of traffic on the left side of the truck.
The elevated height of the cab of a large truck creates blind spots in front of it, making it important for drivers not to cut big rigs off and slam on the brakes. As much as possible, drivers should avoid hovering at the same speed as a truck in an adjacent lane, as the truck driver likely cannot see the car to its right or left. Finally, motorists should keep a safe distance behind a truck, as trucks do not have rearview mirrors.
Who Pays for a No Zone Truck Accident in Texas?
No Zone accidents can be prevented if truck drivers do their part to drive safely and prudently around smaller cars. A truck driver should be trained regarding the truck’s large blind spots and how to safely adapt to them. Truck drivers should make slow and safe lane changes, and should never drive while distracted, impaired or fatigued.
If a trucker in Texas behaves carelessly or recklessly behind the wheel, he or she can be held liable (financially responsible) for a No Zone accident. Under the legal doctrine of vicarious liability, the truck company that employed the driver can often be held liable. It is also possible for the case to involve third parties, such as the manufacturer of a defective blind spot sensor.
How a Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
While knowledge of a truck’s No Zone and safe driving practices – such as passing a big rig as early as possible – can help prevent blind spot accidents, truck drivers are often at fault for failing to properly handle their No Zones.
If a truck driver is at fault for your crash in Texas, you may be entitled to financial compensation from the driver’s or trucking company’s insurance policy. Getting the case outcome that you deserve may take help from a qualified personal injury lawyer in San Antonio.
A blind spot accident lawyer in San Antonio can investigate your No Zone crash to determine fault and collect evidence against one or more parties. Then, your lawyer can deal with confusing paperwork and processes on your behalf to file your claim and seek maximum compensation.