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Broad Turn Trucking Accidents: Who Can be Accountable?

On behalf of greg

Large commercial trucks can present incredible dangers for those riding in traditional passenger vehicles. One type of accident that commonly occurs is a “broad turn accident.” These accidents are also known as “wide turn accidents.” The Philadelphia truck accident attorneys at Soloff & Zervanos, P.C. want to discuss these incidents as well as what victims can do to recover compensation.

How do these accidents happen?

Unfortunately, broad turn (wide turn) truck accidents are common. Why is that the case? When a large commercial truck needs to make a right-hand turn, they need to create extra space for them to do so. Tractor-trailers are much larger than traditional passenger vehicles, and when they turn, they often swing into other lanes of traffic to do so. When a trucker is turning right, they will first swing the truck to the left in order to get enough clearance to make the right turn.

When a trucker does not navigate these turns properly or operates the truck in a reckless manner, they can strike vehicles in the adjacent lane, sometimes crushing the vehicle between the truck and the curb. This is commonly called a “squeeze play.”

Another danger of wide turn truck crashes in an override or underride crash in which a smaller vehicle is caught underneath the truck. Some of the most common reasons these accidents occur include:

  • Truckers not checking their blind spots before turning
  • Truckers failing to use their turn signals
  • Inadequate driver training
  • Distracted driving on the part of the trucker
  • Truck driver fatigue
  • Truck driver alcohol or drug impairment
  • Unfamiliarity with the roadway

Injuries from broad or wide turn truck accidents can be severe. It is not uncommon for our truck accident lawyers in Philadelphia to help clients who have sustained the following:

  • Broken and crushed bones
  • Internal organ damage
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Amputations
  • Neck and back injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries (possible paralysis)
  • Death

Can you avoid a wide turn truck accident?

As a passenger vehicle driver, you can take steps to avoid these collisions. Do your best to anticipate that a truck may turn. Watch out for a truck’s turn signals, and if you see them light up, be ready to stay clear of their pathway. Always stay out of a trucker’s blind spots. If you cannot see the trucker in their mirrors, the trucker cannot see you.

We will help secure the compensation you need

If you or somebody you know has been injured in a broad turn accident with a large truck, you may need to seek legal assistance. At Soloff & Zervanos, P.C., our knowledgeable and experienced team is going to investigate your claim and work to ensure that you are fully compensated. This can include coverage for:

  • Your medical expenses related to the truck crash
  • Lost wages and benefits if you cannot work while recovering
  • Pain and suffering damages
  • Loss of personal enjoyment damages
  • Possible punitive damages against the truck driver and trucking company

When you need a truck accident attorney in Philadelphia, you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling us at 866-597-8572.