Compared to the average vehicle, an 18-wheeler is going to have a larger turn radius making it prone to accidents. Without appropriate care, the truck can start to slide to the right or left as the driver begins to turn. It’s important to make sure there’s enough space to complete the turn without endangering others on the road. In some cases, drivers end up getting into trouble due to these turns because cars try to squeeze past and cut in front as soon as they can. Due to this rash decision, the car ends up settling into the truck’s blind spot making it difficult for the truck driver to react in time.

Since the truck driver doesn’t know where the motorist is, they end up making a mistake and getting into an accident. This “squeeze play” is often noted as a root cause of accidents between the average car and truck. If you have been involved in a truck accident, it’s best to seek out a qualified personal injury attorney at Pinder Plotkin for comprehensive legal protection in Maryland.

Injuries Caused By Squeeze Play Accidents

Due to the amount of weight a truck carries, it can quickly become a source of danger for the driver. If a smaller vehicle ends up in the truck’s blind spot, it will get squeezed between the curb and truck. This is when accidents occur and the motorist gets injured. In many cases, the accident occurs at a low speed but still leads to significant injuries because of the truck’s weight.

Some of these injuries include:

• Severed Limbs
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• Broken Bones
• Damaged Organs
• Spinal Cord Damage/Paralysis

Injuries in a truck accident can lead to long-term health concerns and/or disability. If the truck driver is negligent, they will be held responsible for their actions along with the employer. In these cases, the plaintiff can take the time to reach out and seek compensation for all damages. These damages can include lost income, medical fees, property damage, and all other relevant expenses.

Defining Liability with Squeeze Play Truck Accidents

When a driver doesn’t take the time to determine whether or not their way is clear, this can lead to them being at-fault for the accident. A good example of this is when a truck driver begins to turn right and swings to the left at an intersection. Due to their momentum, the truck driver needs to make sure the lane to the right is clear before executing the turn. If not, this can put the motorist in the truck driver’s blind spot leading to the “squeeze play.” Truck drivers are required to keep an eye out for this and should use specialized techniques such as straddling both lanes to make sure this doesn’t occur.

Since driving an 18-wheeler requires a significant amount of responsibility, all truck drivers are expected to go through rigorous training and testing before being allowed on the road. This includes qualifying for their CDL or Commercial Driver’s License. During the training, truck drivers are taught to maintain a safe distance, understand how to make legal turns, and ensure they have complete control over the truck at all times. This includes making shoulder checks to see what’s happening to their right and left to avoid careless errors. This training is essential as it ensures the driver is equipped to handle a large truck that can cause quite a bit of damage if used improperly. Truck drivers are also expected to re-qualify for their licensing at set periods during their careers. This ensures they are up-to-date while keeping themselves and others safe on the road.

Call Our Maryland Truck Accident Attorneys

If a truck driver causes an accident and is “at-fault,” they are charged with negligence. This is often deemed to be at the heart of personal injury cases between motorists and truck drivers. If a squeeze play or wide turn lead to a truck accident and causes injuries on the road, the at-fault party will be responsible for what has transpired. This at-fault party is then charged with negligence in the court of law.

Pinder Plotkin is widely regarded as the best truck accident lawyer in all of Maryland and understands the nuances of dealing with this legal process. When it comes to finding a high-quality personal injury attorney with years of experience, this law firm sets a high standard and will ensure the claim is filed correctly. Take the time to choose a qualified attorney for you and your loved ones to ensure the process goes ahead smoothly. To get started, please take the time to reach out to our office and set up a free consultation.