As an experienced Boston truck accident lawyer, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of commercial truck accidents. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), large truck crashes resulted in 5,601 fatalities and 146,930 injuries in the latest reporting year, with blind spot accidents contributing significantly to these statistics.
The Danger of Commercial Truck Blind Spots in Boston
Boston's narrow streets and dense traffic create particularly hazardous conditions for truck-passenger vehicle interactions. Understanding these blind spots, or "no-zones," is crucial for preventing accidents. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation emphasizes that commercial trucks have four major blind spots that every driver should know:
Front Blind Spot
- Extends 20 feet in front of the cab
- Increases with truck height
- Particularly dangerous during merging situations on highways like I-93 and I-90
Side Blind Spots
- Right side spans two lanes and extends backward diagonally
- Left side covers one lane
- Most critical during lane changes on busy routes like Route 1 and Route 128
Rear Blind Spot
- Extends 200 feet behind the trailer
- Creates significant risks during sudden stops
- Especially dangerous in stop-and-go Boston traffic
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), nearly 35% of truck-related fatalities occur within these blind spots.
Advanced Safety Technologies and Legal Requirements
Modern commercial trucks are increasingly equipped with blind spot detection systems. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends several safety technologies:
- Side-view cameras
- Radar-based detection systems
- Motion sensors
- Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
Legal Rights and Compensation After a Blind Spot Accident
As your Boston truck accident lawyer, we at Peck Trial Attorneys understand the complexities of truck accident claims. Victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation costs
- Medical equipment and modifications
- Transportation expenses
- Home care services
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Diminished quality of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- PTSD and anxiety
The American Bar Association provides additional information about personal injury claims and victim rights.
Prevention and Safety Tips
To avoid blind spot accidents:
- Maintain at least 100 feet distance behind trucks
- Never linger in side blind spots
- Pass trucks quickly and decisively
- Watch for turn signals
- Allow extra space in adverse weather
- Be especially cautious during dawn and dusk
- Stay visible in truck mirrors
Why Choose a Specialized Boston Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accident cases involve complex federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and sophisticated insurance issues. Our team:
- Investigates accident scenes promptly
- Preserves critical evidence
- Works with accident reconstruction experts
- Handles insurance negotiations
- Understands federal trucking regulations
- Has experience with local courts and judges
- Maintains relationships with medical experts
Contact a Boston Truck Accident Lawyer
If you've been involved in a truck blind spot accident, time is critical. Contact Peck Trial Attorneys:
- Phone: 857-557-7325
- Address: 77 Franklin Street, Fourth Floor, Boston, MA 02110
- Free initial consultation
- No fees unless we win your case
- Evening and weekend appointments available
We have recovered millions in compensation for truck accident victims throughout Massachusetts. Our experienced legal team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families.
Schedule your free consultation today to discuss your legal options with a dedicated Boston truck accident lawyer who will fight for your rights and maximum compensation.
