Large commercial trucks have significant blind spots that often contribute to collisions. In Kentucky, these incidents can lead to serious legal consequences. If you’re injured in such a crash, you may have the right to seek compensation under state law.
Understanding blind spots in commercial truck accidents
Blind spots on commercial vehicles extend much farther than those on passenger cars. Key danger zones include the area directly behind the trailer, the length of both sides, and the space immediately in front of the cab. These zones can easily obscure entire vehicles from the truck driver’s view. When drivers fail to thoroughly check these areas before making maneuvers like lane changes or turns, collisions often occur.
If you’re struck while in a truck’s blind spot, liability will depend on the specific circumstances. In Kentucky, commercial drivers are expected to check all mirrors, use turn signals, and ensure their path is clear. A failure to perform these duties may constitute negligence on the driver’s part.
Determining liability in Kentucky blind spot cases
In blind spot accident cases, responsibility may lie with the truck driver, the trucking company, or both. A driver who changes lanes without proper caution or skips necessary safety checks may be considered negligent. If the company failed to provide adequate training or encouraged unsafe practices to meet deadlines, they could also bear legal responsibility.
Faulty equipment may play a role as well. Inadequate mirrors or malfunctioning camera systems can hinder visibility. If maintenance issues contributed to the crash, liability might extend to the truck’s owner or service provider.
Establishing evidence for your claim
To build a strong claim, you’ll need compelling evidence. Useful materials include dash cam footage, eyewitness accounts, and expert accident reconstructions. Your objective is to demonstrate that the truck driver did not follow proper safety procedures.
Photos showing vehicle positions and damage help illustrate the events. Trucking logs, maintenance documentation, and training records can provide further context and support.
Prompt action is important after a truck accident. Physical evidence can be lost over time, and Kentucky enforces strict legal deadlines for filing claims. Understanding how state law applies to blind spot accidents helps you build a stronger case.