In Washington and throughout the Pacific Northwest, wide right-turn truck accidents can be devastating, often leading to serious injuries or even fatalities. Determining fault in these accidents can be complex, making it essential to understand Washington’s traffic laws and liability rules.
This blog will break down the different aspects of wide right-turn truck accidents, including the types of accidents, reasons why they happen, who is at fault, and what to do if you’re injured. We’ll also explain how the Gilbert Law Firm, based in Spokane, Washington, can assist you in navigating the aftermath of such an accident and answer some frequently asked questions.
Common Types of Right-Turn Truck Accidents in Washington
Right-turn truck accidents can occur in several ways, often resulting in significant damage or injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Here are some common types of right-turn truck accidents:
1. Wide Right-Turn Accidents
- What Happens? A truck swings left before turning right, unintentionally colliding with a vehicle, cyclist, or pedestrian in the adjacent lane.
- Common Scenario: A car attempting to pass on the right gets trapped as the truck completes its turn.
2. “Squeeze Play” Truck Accidents
- What Happens? The truck driver miscalculates the space needed for a turn trapping a smaller vehicle between the truck and the curb or another barrier.
- Common Scenario: A car gets squeezed at an intersection when the truck turns too sharply or unexpectedly.
3. Blind Spot Truck Accidents
- What Happens? Large trucks have significant blind spots, particularly on the right side. If a vehicle is in this blind spot, the truck driver may not see it before initiating a right turn, leading to a collision.
- Common Scenario: A vehicle traveling in the truck’s blind spot may be struck when the truck starts to turn right, often without the truck driver realizing there was a car beside them.
4. Pedestrian and Cyclist Truck Accidents
- What Happens? Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable during right-turn maneuvers. If they are in the truck’s path or crosswalk, they may be struck by the truck as it turns.
- Common Scenario: A pedestrian in a crosswalk is struck when a truck makes a right turn without yielding.
Why Do Right-Turn Truck Accidents Happen?
Several factors contribute to the occurrence of right-turn truck accidents. Understanding these causes helps determine liability and prevent future accidents.
1. Truck Size and Maneuverability Issues in Tight Turns
- Large trucks require extra space to turn. Drivers must swing left before turning right, creating potential hazards for nearby vehicles.
2. Dangerous Blind Spots in Large Trucks
- Trucks have large blind spots, especially on the right side, making it easy to miss smaller vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians.
3. Truck Driver Inexperience or Error
- Inexperienced truck drivers may misjudge turn space or fail to signal. Even experienced drivers can make mistakes in busy intersections.
4. Poor Road and Weather Conditions
- Narrow roads, sharp turns, and bad weather can make right turns more difficult, increasing the risk of accidents.
5. Inadequate Signaling Before a Wide Right-Turn
- If a truck driver fails to use turn signals properly, other drivers may not realize a turn is happening leading to collisions.
Who Is Liable in a Wide Right-Turn Truck Accident in Washington?
Determining fault in a wide right-turn truck accident depends on several factors, including driver actions, road conditions, and applicable state laws. Here are the key parties that could be responsible:
- The Truck Driver – Truck drivers can be at fault if they:
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- Fail to check blind spots before turning.
- Don’t signal properly.
- Make an unsafe or illegal turn
- Are distracted, fatigued, or driving recklessly.
- The Trucking Company – A trucking company may be held liable if:
- They fail to properly train their drivers.
- The truck involved was not properly maintained.
- They pressure drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, leading to unsafe driving.
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Other Driver or Road User Fault – Another driver may be partially or fully at fault if they:
- Try to overtake a turning truck on the right.
- Speed or drive aggressively near a truck.
- Ignore a truck’s signals and move into its turning path.
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Shared Fault (Comparative Negligence in Washington)
- Washington follows comparative negligence laws, meaning multiple parties can share fault. If both the truck driver and another driver were negligent, the fault may be divided, impacting how much compensation each party can recover.
Common Injuries from Right-Turn Truck Accidents in Washington
Victims of wide right-turn truck accidents may suffer:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Internal organ injuries
- Severe lacerations and amputations
These injuries can lead to long-term medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering, making legal representation crucial.
FAQs
- What should I do if I’m involved in a wide right-turn truck accident?
- Get medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured.
- Contact the police and file an accident report
- Gather truck driver and witness information.
- Contact an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible.
- How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
- At Gilbert Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
- How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
- Washington law generally allows three years from the accident date. However, it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.
- What compensation can I recover?
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
The compensation amount will depend on the specific circumstances of your case.
- How long will my case take?
- Case length depends on factors such as evidence collection, negotiations, and whether a trial is necessary. Our team will work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible.
Contact Our Washington Car Accident Lawyers at The Gilbert Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a wide right-turn truck accident in Washington State, the experienced attorneys at the Gilbert Law Firm are here to help. With over 70 years of combined experience, we are dedicated to listening to your concerns and fighting for the justice you deserve.
Why Choose Gilbert Law Firm?
Available 24/7: We understand that accidents can happen anytime. Our team is available around the clock to assist you.
Proven Track Record: With millions awarded and thousands of clients helped, we have a history of successful outcomes for our clients.
Client-Centered Approach: We take the time to get to know each client personally, ensuring that your unique needs are met with genuine care and dedication.
We work tirelessly to get you compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a truck accident alone. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, provide an honest evaluation, and discuss the best steps forward.
Call us at 509-321-0750 or visit our contact page to get started.
At the Gilbert Law Firm, we’re here for you. Let us help you through this challenging time.
