Blind spot accidents are a common yet dangerous occurrence on Michigan roads. The key to addressing the aftermath of a blind spot accident lies in determining who is at fault, which is necessary for securing rightful compensation. In this blog post, we explore the complexities of blind spot accidents, how fault for a blind spot accident is determined in Michigan, and how an auto accident attorney in Michigan can be your trusted ally in protecting your rights and recovering compensation for your damages.
Blind Spots and Their Dangers
A blind spot is an area around a vehicle not visible to the driver through standard mirrors. When a driver fails to notice a vehicle in their blind spot and makes a lane change, an auto accident can occur. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that blind spot accidents contribute to more than 800,000 accidents annually. The statistics underscore the dire need for awareness and precaution while navigating around blind spots.
Common Causes of Blind Spot Accidents
Understanding the possible causes of a blind spot accident can be instrumental in determining fault and advocating for your rights. Here are some of the most frequent causes of blind spot accidents:
- Inadequate Mirror Adjustment: Drivers often fail to adjust their mirrors properly, which enlarges blind spots and obscures other vehicles on the road.
- Failure to Check Blind Spots: Neglecting to physically check blind spots before changing lanes is a common oversight that can lead to collisions.
- High-Speed Driving: At high speeds, both the driver’s reaction time and the time to check blind spots diminish, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
- Large Vehicle Blind Spots: Larger vehicles like trucks and buses have significantly larger blind spots, making it crucial for both the drivers of these vehicles and others on the road to exercise extra caution.
- Distracted Driving: Distractions, whether due to mobile phones, other passengers, or any other reason, can prevent drivers from adequately checking their blind spots.
Who is Most Likely to be Injured in a Blind Spot Accident?
Blind spot accidents pose a risk to all road users, yet some are more vulnerable than others. Here is a look at who stands at higher risk:
- Motorcyclists and Bicyclists: Due to their smaller size, motorcyclists and bicyclists are often harder to spot and can easily be hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot.
- Pedestrians: Similarly, a pedestrian could be easily hidden in a driver’s blind spot, especially near intersections or crosswalks where drivers are making turns.
- Passengers: In some cases, the passengers of the vehicles involved in the accident may bear the brunt of the impact, especially if the collision occurs on the passenger side.
- Drivers of Smaller Vehicles: In accidents involving large trucks or buses, drivers of smaller vehicles are more likely to sustain injuries due to the size and weight disparity.
Understanding who is most at risk in a blind spot accident further underscores the importance of vigilance on the road, and the crucial role legal representation plays if you have been injured in a blind spot accident in Michigan.
The Law and Blind Spot Accidents in Michigan
Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that regardless of who is at fault, individuals can claim Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits from their own insurance. However, determining fault is crucial when seeking compensation beyond PIP benefits, especially in blind spot accidents. The following factors often play a pivotal role in determining fault for a blind spot accident:
- Failure to Signal: Not signaling before changing lanes is a common indicator of negligence.
- Reckless Driving: Speeding or erratic driving behaviors can significantly contribute to the occurrence of blind spot accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Engaging in distracting activities like texting or talking on the phone while driving can lead to a failure in checking blind spots.
- Improper Mirror Adjustment: Incorrectly adjusted mirrors can create larger blind spots, making it difficult to see other road users.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs drastically reduces the driver’s ability to perceive and react to vehicles in blind spots.
Determining fault for a blind spot accident can be complex, but with the help of a skilled auto accident attorney, Michigan blind spot accident victims can navigate the path to securing the justice and compensation they deserve.
Steps to Protecting Your Rights After a Blind Spot Accident
What you do immediately after being involved in a blind spot accident can significantly impact the outcome of your car accident case. Here are some important steps you should take after a blind spot accident to protect your right to compensation for your injuries and losses:
- Document the accident scene: Take photos, gather witness contacts, and retain any other pertinent evidence.
- Seek medical attention: Ensure you get a thorough medical check-up following the accident.
- Report the accident to the police: The official accident report can be fundamental in building a strong case.
- Consult with a Michigan auto accident attorney: Engage a lawyer early to guide you through the legal maze.
Role of an Auto Accident Attorney in Blind Spot Accident Cases
Engaging a seasoned auto accident attorney can be instrumental in recovering compensation after a blind spot accident. Your attorney can advise you on the legal framework surrounding your case, collect necessary evidence, and represent your interests vigorously. Additionally, an experienced personal injury lawyer can handle negotiations with the liable party’s insurance company to secure a fair settlement on your behalf.
Why Choose Fieger Law
Fieger Law stands out with a rich history of championing the rights of auto accident victims in Michigan. Our no-obligation free consultation and contingency fee agreement, which means you don’t pay any attorney fees unless we win your case or end it with a successful settlement or verdict, underscore our commitment to your case. With expertise in handling a wide range of auto accident cases, we have the experience, knowledge, and resources to provide the right legal support you need.
Contact Fieger Law Today
Have you or a loved one been involved in a blind spot accident in Michigan? Do not navigate the complex legal process alone. Schedule your free consultation with a skilled Michigan auto accident attorney at Fieger Law to explore how we can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us TODAY via our contact form.
