Truck accidents are likely to have catastrophic outcomes due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. One of the most dangerous truck-related collisions is lane change accidents.
When a massive commercial vehicle unexpectedly moves into an occupied lane, the results can be disastrous—leaving victims and their families devastated. If you were involved in a lane change accident in Kansas City, you have the right to seek justice through an insurance claim or lawsuit with the help of a truck accident lawyer in Kansas City.
What Are Lane Change Truck Accidents and How Do They Happen?
Lane change truck accidents occur when a truck moves from one lane to another, colliding with or forcing other vehicles off the road. These accidents often result from truck drivers’ failure to properly check their blind spots, misjudging the speed and position of nearby vehicles, or making abrupt lane changes without adequate signaling.
Several factors can contribute to lane change collisions:
- Truck drivers face pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, sometimes leading to rushed or aggressive driving behaviors.
- Fatigue from long hours on the road can impair a driver’s judgment and reaction time. A driver who falls asleep at the wheel could also drift into adjacent lanes.
- The size of commercial trucks creates significant blind spots, particularly on the right side and directly behind the trailer, making it challenging to see smaller vehicles.
- Mechanical failures, such as faulty turn signals or mirrors, can contribute to unsafe lane changes and lead to a collision.
Legal Responsibilities of Truck Drivers and Companies
Truck drivers and the companies that employ them have an obligation to safely operate their vehicles and keep other people safe on the road. Drivers are required to strict regulations regarding hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and safe driving practices. Their employer must provide proper training on how to execute safe lane changes, check blind spots, and react to unexpected situations on the road.
Trucking companies are also responsible for hiring qualified drivers and keeping their fleet of vehicles in safe operating condition. They must comply with federal and state regulations, including those set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). In the event of a lane change accident, both the driver and the company may be held liable if negligence or regulatory violations are found to have contributed to the crash.
Steps to Take After a Lane Change Truck Accident in Kansas City
After a lane change truck accident in Kansas City, taking the right steps after the incident can impact your ability to seek compensation and protect your rights. Here’s what you should do:
- Report the accident to law enforcement by calling 911.
- Even if you feel fine, get a thorough medical examination to identify potential injuries.
- Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries if possible.
- Collect contact and insurance details from the truck driver and any witnesses.
- Contact a truck accident lawyer to discuss your legal options and protect your rights.
Speak to an Attorney at Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe Today
Lane change accidents involving large trucks can result in serious injuries and complex legal issues. The Kansas City personal injury attorneys at Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe have the knowledge and resources that you need to tackle these challenging cases.
If you’ve been injured in a lane change truck accident, contact our Kansas City truck accident lawyers at (816) 876-2600. We offer free case evaluations and will fight tirelessly to protect your interests and secure the compensation you deserve.