Blind-spot truck accidents in Memphis can have catastrophic results. While all vehicles have blind-spots that have to be taken into account by the driver, tractor-trailers have enormous blind-spots on both sides, the back of the trailer, and directly in front of the engine. Vehicles in one of these blind spots are difficult to observe and can easily pass the driver unnoticed.
Truck drivers must check their blind-spots judiciously and take extra precautions before turning from one street to another, merging lanes, or crossing intersections. If a truck driver is negligent and fails to check their mirrors or surroundings, an accident can quickly occur.
The size and mass differences between a commercial truck and a standard passenger vehicle typically create a disproportionate risk for damage and injury to the standard vehicle and its driver, requiring emergency medical treatment and, in some cases, physical rehabilitation. If you or a loved one were harmed by a careless commercial vehicle operator, a seasoned truck accident attorney at the Reaves Law Firm could help you seek financial compensation.
Determining liability in a collision caused by a commuter being in a big rig driver’s blind-spot can be complicated. Common traffic accidents that involve two standard vehicles typically only weigh liability between the motorists. However, accidents involving commercial vehicles may also be against the company that owns the truck and employs the truck driver.
Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, an employer can be held vicariously liable for the wrongdoing of their employees in the line of work. In other words, if a commercial truck driver in Memphis fails to check their blind spots before turning while transporting goods, their employer may bear some liability for that misconduct should it result in a collision.
Holding the trucking company responsible is advantageous for an injured party primarily due to the policy differences between drivers and trucking companies. The trucking company has a significantly higher ceiling which means that an injured party can recover much more compensation. However, recovery can still be challenging due to the additional resources at the trucking company’s disposal.
If a person in Memphis suffers an injury due to a negligent truck driver failing to check their blind-spots, they may be entitled to damages. Damages are financial compensation for the personal and monetary losses a person suffered as a result of another person’s reckless or careless conduct.
An injured party can seek damages for their medical bills (including long-term and future medical care), rehabilitation costs, and compensation for their suffering due to pain and anguish. The law also accounts for an injured party’s lost wages and future lost wages due to lingering injury.
Furthermore, parties injured in blind-spot trucking accidents may also seek compensation for their pain, suffering, scarring, and reduced quality of life. Each case can vary, but an experienced attorney at the Reaves Law Firm could provide an exhaustive list tailored to an individual’s case.
Blind spot truck accidents in Memphis can be devastating for injured parties and their families. You may be facing a long fight to heal and resume your everyday life, or may even be permanently impacted.
Fortunately, you do not have to face these challenges alone. The Reaves Law Firm may be able to help you recover financial compensation for your injuries. Call us today to discuss your case.
