Florida Wide-Turn Truck Accident Attorneys
Wide right turns are a specific maneuver that large trucks, such as semis and tractor-trailers, must often perform to navigate intersections and tight corners. Due to their considerable length and limited turning radius, these vehicles need extra space to make a right turn safely. The movement to make this turn can be dangerous, leading to a wide right-turn truck accident. Unlike smaller vehicles that can turn directly within the typical lane width, trucks may swing left before turning right to avoid curbing or colliding with objects on the roadside. This movement can create significant hazards for other road users, who may not anticipate the truck’s need for additional space and may inadvertently place themselves in the truck’s blind spots or path. Understanding the intricacies and precautions associated with wide right turns is critical for both truck drivers and adjacent motorists to ensure road safety.
In the event you have been injured in a right-turn truck accident, the skilled truck accident attorneys at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers are here for you. Contact us for a free consultation to learn more about your options to seek compensation for your injuries.
What Is a Wide Right-Turn Truck Accident?
A wide right-turn truck accident occurs when a large truck, such as a semi or tractor-trailer, is executing a right turn and collides with another vehicle, cyclist, or pedestrian. This type of accident is primarily caused by the truck’s need to swing left before turning right, leading to unexpected and often dangerous situations for others sharing the road. The truck’s extended trailer and wide turning arc can obscure the view of other motorists, leaving them unaware of the truck’s intended path. Consequently, vehicles attempting to pass on the right side or pedestrians crossing the street may find themselves in the truck’s blind spots or inadvertently caught in its trajectory. These accidents can result in severe injuries, significant property damage, and, in extreme cases, fatalities. Understanding the dynamics of wide right turns is essential for preventing such incidents and promoting safer roadways.
Wide Left Turns
Wide left turns also present unique challenges for large trucks. Similar to wide right turns, these maneuvers require extra space due to the vehicle’s extended length and reduced turning capability. When making a wide left turn, truck drivers might need to swing wide, often into adjacent lanes or even partially into the oncoming traffic lane, to complete the turn without causing the trailer to track over curbs or collide with obstacles. This can create dangerous situations for other road users, particularly those who may attempt to pass the truck on the left side or who are unaware of the truck’s need for extended turning space.
Common Causes of Wide-Turn Truck Accidents
Several factors can contribute to a wide right-turn accident.
Truck Driver Fails to Signal Properly
Additionally, truck drivers may not always signal their intentions properly, failing to use their turn signal and not giving other road users insufficient warning of their impending maneuvers.
Inexperienced Truck Drivers
Inexperience or inadequate training of truck drivers can also lead to improper execution of wide turns, increasing the risk of accidents.
Environmental Conditions
Environmental conditions, such as poor visibility due to weather or obstructed views at intersections, can further complicate wide turns and escalate the possibility of collisions.
Truck Speed
Lastly, the speed at which the turn is executed plays a vital role; if a truck attempts to turn too quickly, the probability of losing control or causing a crash rises significantly.
Liability for Wide-Turn Truck Accidents
Determining liability in wide-turn truck accidents often involves multiple parties and a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the incident.
- Negligent Truck Driver: Typically, the truck driver is initially considered the at-fault party for a wide right-turn truck accident, especially if there is evidence of negligence such as the truck driver fails to signal, misjudgment of space, or inadequate execution of the turn.
- Trucking Company Liability: However, the trucking company may also be held liable, particularly if it is found that the truck driver lacked proper training or if the truck was not maintained adequately.
Thus, establishing accountability for truck accidents often requires a comprehensive evaluation of truck driver behavior, vehicle condition, road design, and possible contributing actions of other motorists. Legal expertise is crucial in navigating these complexities to ensure that all responsible parties are appropriately identified and held accountable.
What to Do If You Have Been in a Wide-Turn Truck Accident
Experiencing a wide-turn truck accident can be overwhelming and distressing, but taking the right steps immediately afterward is crucial to ensure your well-being and protect your legal rights. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in such a situation:
- Ensure Safety: First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further truck accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. Even if injuries appear minor, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly as some injuries, such as internal damage or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
- Call Emergency Services: Dial emergency services to report the truck accident. Police officers will document the scene and generate an accident report, which will be vital for any subsequent legal actions and insurance claims. Additionally, paramedics can provide immediate medical care to those injured.
- Document the Scene: If you are able, document the accident scene thoroughly. Take photographs of all vehicles involved, the surrounding area, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Make note of the truck’s license plate, company name, and contact information of the truck driver. Collect contact information from any witnesses as well.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and any other parties involved in the accident. Keep communication polite and avoid admitting fault or making definitive statements about the accident, as these can be used against you later.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you do not feel seriously injured, it is imperative to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Medical records will be crucial in documenting the extent of your injuries for insurance and legal purposes.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as you can. Avoid making a statement until you have consulted with an experienced truck accident lawyer.
- Consult with a Truck Accident Attorney at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers: To navigate the complexities of truck accident claims, it is advisable to consult with an experienced truck accident attorney. They can provide guidance on your legal rights, help gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
- Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of all medical treatments, expenses, communications with insurance companies, and any other relevant documentation. These records will be essential in pursuing a successful claim or legal action.
By following these steps, you can safeguard your health and strengthen your position as you seek justice and compensation for your losses.
Contingency Fee Arrangements
When pursuing a truck accident claim, one of the most significant concerns for victims is the cost of legal representation. Fortunately, many personal injury attorneys, including those at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, offer contingency fee arrangements. Under a contingency fee agreement, you do not have to pay any upfront legal fees. Instead, your attorney’s fees will be deducted as a percentage of the settlement or court award you receive. This means that if your attorney does not win your case or secure a settlement, you will not be obligated to pay for their services.
Contingency fee arrangements provide several key advantages. Firstly, they make legal representation accessible to individuals who might not have the financial resources to hire an attorney otherwise. Secondly, they align the interests of the attorney and the client, as both parties have a vested interest in achieving a successful outcome. Lastly, this arrangement allows clients to focus on recovery and healing without the added stress of legal fees, knowing their attorney is motivated and committed to securing the best possible result for their case.
Common Injuries in Wide Right-Turn Truck Accidents
Wide right-turn truck accidents can result in a range of severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles.
Traumatic Brain Injury
One common injury is traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can occur when a vehicle occupant’s head strikes an object within the car or the pavement.
Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries are also prevalent, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis that can dramatically affect the victim’s quality of life.
Broken Bones
Broken bones and fractures are frequent, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs, due to the immense force of impact.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash, torn ligaments, and muscle strains, are typical as well.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries, including damage to organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs, are serious injuries that can occur from a wide-turn accident and may require emergency medical attention.
Lacerations and Bruises
Severe lacerations and bruises are common, occurring from shattered glass and metal. The complexity and severity of these injuries often necessitate significant medical treatment and rehabilitation, underscoring the importance of caution and awareness in navigating areas with large trucks.
The Skilled Truck Accident Attorneys at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers Are Here for You
Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers are skilled truck accident attorneys who bring a wealth of experience and dedication to each case they handle. Specializing in truck accident claims, they understand the unique challenges and complexities involved in these incidents. Their expertise includes thorough investigation of the accident scene, meticulous documentation, and aggressive negotiation with insurance companies to secure fair compensation. By choosing Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, victims can be assured of receiving compassionate, knowledgeable representation aimed at achieving the best possible outcome for their case. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
