Blind spot car accidents happen when one driver fails to detect another vehicle positioned just outside their field of vision. These collisions can happen during lane changes, merging, or turning. Questions of fault can be difficult to address, as both drivers may believe they had the right of way.
What Is a Blind Spot and Why Does It Matter in a Collision?
A “blind spot” is an area around a vehicle that the driver cannot see through mirrors alone. Every vehicle has blind spots, regardless of its size; larger vehicles, like trucks and SUVs, tend to have wider ones. When a driver does not properly check these areas before making a maneuver, another vehicle may be struck unexpectedly.
These accidents are common on highways, where vehicles travel at high speeds and often shift between lanes. Drivers are responsible for checking blind spots by physically turning their heads before moving laterally. Failure to do so may be considered negligent behavior.
Who May Be Held Liable in a Blind Spot Accident?
Liability depends on the specific actions taken before the collision. Often, the driver who initiates the lane change or turn bears responsibility, particularly if they failed to confirm that the adjacent lane was clear. However, if the other driver was speeding, passing on the right, or lingering in a blind spot, they may share fault.
In some cases, liability may be shared under the legal principle of comparative negligence. For instance, one driver may be assigned a greater percentage of fault, while the other is still partially responsible. This division may impact the compensation available depending on state law.
What Evidence Is Used to Determine Fault?
Determining fault typically in blind spot crashes (and all kinds of motor vehicle accidents) requires gathering and reviewing different forms of evidence. Police reports often contain initial assessments based on witness interviews and physical damage. Dashcam videos, traffic camera footage, and photographs of the scene can provide important visual confirmation of how the vehicles were positioned before the crash. Vehicle damage patterns may also reveal which vehicle was attempting a maneuver and which was traveling in a straight line. Additionally, statements from drivers, passengers, and third-party witnesses may influence the outcome of the liability investigation.
What Role Do Insurance Companies Play in Assigning Fault?
Insurance companies conduct their own investigations based on the evidence available. They evaluate driver statements, photographs, repair estimates, and any relevant reports. Adjusters may assign fault based on standard practices and traffic rules. In some cases, insurance companies may share liability between drivers, particularly if both contributed to the circumstances.
If there is disagreement with the insurance company’s determination, it may be necessary to seek legal guidance to challenge the findings or pursue compensation through a civil claim.
How Can Drivers Reduce the Risk of Blind Spot Accidents?
Although it is not possible to eliminate blind spots entirely, there are steps drivers can take to reduce the chance of an accident. Using mirrors properly, turning the head to check adjacent lanes, and avoiding distractions are all basic measures that support safer driving. Drivers should also maintain a safe distance and avoid lingering in areas where they cannot be easily seen by others.
Many newer vehicles are equipped with blind spot detection systems, but these tools should not replace visual confirmation. Drivers remain responsible for maintaining awareness of their surroundings.
West Chester Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Skillfully Represent Clients Injured in Blind Spot Crashes
If you were injured in a blind spot accident, get help from the experienced West Chester car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. today. For an initial consultation, call us at 610-565-3701 or submit our online form. With office locations in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.