Liability for a blind spot accident depends on who had the duty to check their surroundings before making a maneuver. In most cases, the driver who failed to properly check their blind spot before changing lanes, merging, or turning is at fault. However, liability can sometimes be shared if another driver, a commercial trucking company, or even a vehicle manufacturer contributed to the crash.
Blind spot accidents are complex, and insurance companies often dispute fault. If you were involved in a blind spot collision, determining liability is critical to securing compensation for damages. A Long Island car accident lawyer can help investigate the case, collect evidence, and ensure that the responsible party is held accountable.
How Blind Spots Contribute to Accidents
A blind spot is an area around a vehicle that the driver cannot see using their rearview or side mirrors. These areas can create serious risks, especially when drivers fail to check their surroundings before making a move.
Some of the most common causes of blind spot accidents include:
- Failing to check mirrors or perform a head check before switching lanes
- Driving in another vehicle’s blind spot for an extended period
- Unsafe lane changes without signaling or allowing enough clearance
- Large truck blind spots, which extend along the sides, rear, and front of commercial vehicles
- Motorcycle and bicycle blind spots, making it difficult for larger vehicles to see smaller road users
- Defective or improperly adjusted mirrors, which can limit a driver’s visibility
Because every vehicle has blind spots, drivers have a legal duty to check their surroundings before making a maneuver. Failure to do so can result in serious liability issues if an accident occurs.
Determining Liability in a Blind Spot Accident
Liability in blind spot accidents is not always straightforward, as multiple parties may be at fault. The responsible party is typically the one who failed to take proper precautions, but each case is different. Potentially liable parties include:
- The driver who changed lanes or merged unsafely: If a driver failed to check their blind spot before making a maneuver, they are usually at fault.
- The driver in the blind spot: If a vehicle was lingering in another car’s blind spot for an extended period, they may share liability.
- Truck drivers or commercial carriers: Truck drivers must follow federal blind spot safety regulations, and their employers may be responsible if they were not properly trained on safe driving practices.
- Vehicle manufacturers: If a vehicle had defective mirrors, sensors, or cameras, the manufacturer could be liable for failing to provide adequate visibility features.
Since fault can be disputed, working with a Long Island car accident lawyer can help ensure the correct party is held responsible.
How New York’s No-Fault Insurance Laws Impact Blind Spot Accidents
New York follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that injured drivers must file a claim with their own insurance provider first, regardless of who caused the accident. However, if the crash resulted in serious injuries, victims can file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Under New York law, a serious injury may include:
- Bone fractures
- Permanent loss of use of a body part
- Significant disfigurement
- Injuries requiring long-term medical care
If your injuries meet this legal threshold, you may be eligible to file a claim against the driver or company responsible for the accident.
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What Evidence Can Help Prove Fault in a Blind Spot Accident?
Proving liability in a blind spot accident often requires substantial evidence. Some of the most useful types of evidence include:
- Traffic camera footage showing how the accident occurred
- Dashcam recordings from the victim’s or another driver’s vehicle
- Witness statements from other motorists, cyclists, or pedestrians
- Police reports that document accident details and officer observations
- Accident reconstruction analysis to determine the cause of the crash
- Vehicle black box data, which may contain speed, braking, and steering information
Because insurance companies often dispute liability, collecting clear and convincing evidence is key to proving who is at fault.
How Levine And Wiss Can Help If You Were Injured in a Blind Spot Accident
Blind spot accidents can result in severe injuries and costly damages, especially when they involve commercial trucks or high-speed collisions. If you were injured due to another driver’s failure to check their blind spot, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Levine And Wiss has been helping Long Island car accident victims for over 15 years. Our legal team can:
- Investigate the accident to determine fault and identify all liable parties
- Handle insurance negotiations to prevent you from accepting an unfair settlement
- Gather crucial evidence such as surveillance footage, police reports, and witness testimony
- Advocate for your rights in court if necessary to maximize your financial recovery
We understand that insurance companies will do everything possible to minimize your claim. Our team will ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Speak With a Long Island Car Accident Attorney Today
If you were injured in a blind spot accident, do not try to fight the insurance companies alone. Liability disputes, insurance complications, and legal requirements can make it difficult to recover fair compensation without legal support.
Levine And Wiss is ready to help. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us fight for your rights.
