Car Accidents Caused By Blind Spots
When you drive, are you actively looking before making moves, or are you relying solely on your mirrors? If you’re not using your eyes before changing lanes, you run the risk of getting into a blind spot accident.
Blind spot accidents are quite common, accounting for 800,000 crashes each year in the United States. While large semi trucks are more likely to have blind spots, the fact is that all vehicles have them.
Blind spots are the areas around your vehicle that you cannot see in your mirrors. You have to physically turn your head and use your eyes to look for vehicles in your blind spot, which is typically next to you. Otherwise, you could hit another vehicle and cause a rollover, sideswipe, or rear-end accident.
Types of Blind Spot Accidents
The bigger the vehicle, the larger the blind spots. They can vary based on the vehicle and driver. There are several main types of blind spot accidents you should be aware of:
- Lane changes. This is the most common type of blind spot accident. While using your mirrors can help, you need to turn your head and look before changing lanes to avoid hitting vehicles next to you. Make sure to use your turn signal as well.
- Getting onto a freeway from a side street involves merging. Ideally, you should be merging at the speed of traffic, which may be 55 or 65 miles per hour. Successfully merging at these speeds can be a challenge if there are a lot of cars on the road. Therefore, you need to be mindful of your blind spots, especially if you’re driving a larger vehicle.
- When going in reverse, don’t just rely on your mirrors or backup camera. Be sure to look around before backing up, especially when in a parking lot or other heavily trafficked area. Look for pedestrians and bicyclists before putting the car in reverse.
How to Avoid Blind Spot Accidents
Avoid blind spot crashes with these tips:
- Adjust your mirrors. Find the proper angles for your mirrors so you can see as much space around your vehicle as possible. You might even want to upgrade to convex mirrors, which offer a wider range of view.
- Use your eyes. Don’t rely on your mirrors. Use your eyes safely before changing lanes or backing up.
- Stay alert. Focus on the road. Don’t be texting or making phone calls. Be aware of the vehicles around you.
- Follow traffic laws. Obey traffic signs and signals. Don’t speed. Keep a safe distance between other vehicles.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Not many drivers pay attention to blind spots and they end up in serious accidents. Stay safe by staying alert while driving and relying on your eyes, not your mirrors.
Whether your car accident was caused by blind spots or another issue, seek legal help. The Houston auto accident attorneys at the West Law Office, PLLC can determine liability. Schedule a free consultation and get the compensation you deserve. Call 281-347-3247 or fill out the online form.
Resource:
natlawreview.com/article/what-if-my-car-accident-was-caused-blind-spot
