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Truck Accidents Caused by Unsafe Lane Changes in Aventura

Changing lanes seems like a routine driving maneuver, but it becomes much more dangerous when a commercial truck is involved. Tractor-trailers have large blind spots, require more time to complete lane changes, and need significantly more space than passenger vehicles. Together, these factors can increase the likelihood of truck accidents caused by unsafe lane changes in Aventura.

If you suffered injuries because a truck driver made an unsafe lane change, you have the right to pursue compensation from the responsible parties. Our experienced truck accident attorneys will investigate the crash and help you build a case that can be successful at trial. At Kaire & Heffernan, we offer a free consultation to discuss your case.

What Makes a Lane Change Unsafe?

A lane change becomes unsafe when a driver moves into another lane without first ensuring that the area is clear. Commercial truck drivers have a duty to use their signals and check for traffic in their blind spots. Still, many truckers in Aventura make unsafe lane changes, which can compromise your safety or cause a crash. Some of these factors include the following:

Failing To Check Blind Spots

Commercial trucks have large blind spots along both sides of the trailer, directly behind the truck, and in front of the cab. A driver who changes lanes without checking these areas risks colliding with a vehicle that is not visible in the mirrors.

Failing To Signal

Turn signals give surrounding drivers advance notice that a truck intends to move into another lane. When a truck driver fails to signal, nearby motorists have little opportunity to slow down or create additional space.

Changing Lanes Too Quickly

Commercial trucks require more time and distance to change lanes safely. Abrupt lane changes leave surrounding drivers with little time to react.

Distracted Driving

A truck driver who is texting, using a GPS, adjusting vehicle controls, or focusing on something other than traffic will fail to notice nearby vehicles before changing lanes.

Why Are These Accidents So Devastating?

In Aventura, wrecks caused by unsafe lane shifts usually result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight differences between tractor-trailers and passenger vehicles. Moreover, many unsafe lane change accidents occur on highways where traffic moves at high speeds. A single improper lane change can trigger chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles. Some of the life-altering conditions that can result from these accidents include:

These injuries create substantial financial and personal consequences, and you have the right to seek compensation when another party is responsible for the crash.

Proving Fault for a Crash Caused by an Unsafe Lane Change

In Aventura, successfully recovering compensation requires proving that the truck driver or another responsible party caused the collision through negligent lane maneuvering. Building such a case begins with collecting and preserving evidence before it disappears.

Police reports provide an initial account of how the collision occurred and identify witnesses at the scene. Photographs of the vehicles, roadway, skid marks, debris, and property damage help reconstruct the accident. Some of the other useful pieces of evidence in these cases include:

  • Truck data recorders
  • Dash cam video
  • GPS records
  • Witness testimony
  • Expert testimony
  • Repair records

To obtain the compensation you deserve, you need a strong case that supports your claim. Our team will help you build that case.

Contact Our Aventura Attorneys About Your Crash Caused By a Truck’s Unsafe Lane Change

Many people are unsure of their options following truck accidents caused by unsafe lane changes in Aventura. If you are facing such a situation, speak with one of our lawyers at Kaire & Heffernan. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.