Commercial trucks carrying small or oversized loads may have to make wide right turns due to little or no visibility on the driver’s side and off-tracking of the trailer.
When an 18-wheeler makes a wide right turn, there may be an obstruction in the convex mirror due to the huge size of the trucks. The situation does not arise when trucks make left turns because the driver is on the left side, and can look out the window.
When the trailer makes a right turn, it happens that the back part does not follow the front part directly. When taking a wide right turn, the truck driver must be careful not to hit another vehicle, pedestrian, or object.
An experienced San Antonio truck accident lawyer can help you understand a potential claim if truck drivers collide with you while making a wide right turn.
Types Of Wide Right Turn Accidents
There may be several situations where wide turning leads to a crash. These include:
- Right turn on a two-lane road: When a commercial driver turns right on a two-lane road, he may turn into a lane with oncoming traffic. Such a turn threatens the lives of truck drivers and other vehicles if not carefully executed. The truck must straddle both lanes to make wide turns and leave plenty of room for oncoming traffic.
- Right turn on a multi-lane road: A truck driver may swerve into an adjacent lane to complete the wide right turn. If the drivers fail to check the blind spots, a collision may occur.
- Rollovers: As trucks have a higher center of gravity, they can roll over when making a right turn if they are speeding, causing a truck rollover accident.
- Drivers trying to squeeze close to the turning truck: Some drivers may try to squeeze into the lane where the truck is making a wide right turn. It may cause a truck accident if either the truck driver or the car driver fails to anticipate the other vehicle.
Common Injuries In Wide-Right-Turn Accidents
Commercial trucks can cause deadly accidents resulting in debilitating injuries when they collide with other vehicles while making improper right turns. Some of them are as follows:
- Broken or crushed bones;
- Amputated limbs;
- Neck and back injuries;
- Concussion;
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Internal bleeding;
- Internal organ damage;
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Paralysis.
In extreme cases, wrongful death may also be a consequence of accidents involving large commercial trucks.
Who Is At Fault In A Truck Wide Right Turn Accident?
A truck driver may be at fault in those truck accident cases when they lose focus, are distracted while driving, or violate time in service rules. The fault will lie on the parties acting negligently, thereby leading to the collision. Some examples of negligent actions where the truck driver could be held liable are:
- Speeding;
- Failing to check blind spots;
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol;
- Violation of traffic rules;
- Failing to use turn signals;
- Not complying with federal or state regulations.
Sometimes, a trucking company can also be held responsible for accidents. Liability may arise when trucks are not properly maintained, or inexperienced drivers are allowed to drive without proper training. Other drivers, and not the truck driver may be liable when trying to squeeze next to the truck taking a wide right-hand turn, leading to an accident.
What Compensation Can You Claim In A Wide Right Turn Accident?
A truck accident is a traumatic event for those involved, with the potential for serious physical injuries and economic losses. A victim may experience damage to health, relationship, finances, personal well-being, or work. Some of the damages for which you can pursue compensation in a personal injury claim are:
- Medical expenses: These comprise bills for surgeries, ongoing therapy, medication prescriptions, procedures, and emergency room visits.
- Property damage expenses: If any valuable property, such as your car, has been damaged, it is included in property damage. Other small items, like phones or possessions, can also fall in this category.
- Loss of income: Claims for loss of income will include both the days you missed at work and loss of earning potential in the future.
- Non-economic damages: Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of life enjoyment, and loss of consortium.
Need Legal Support? Contact Our Law Firm
Khattar Law, P.C. has more than 30 years of experience in handling truck accident cases and helping victims pursue compensation.
If you were injured by a truck making a wide right turn, schedule a free case evaluation to discuss your concerns or find answers to your questions by calling 210-972-3834.