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February 27th, 2025
Big truck accidents can happen anywhere. But, statistically, they are more likely to occur at intersections. Significant hazards exist whenever two or more roads come together, which increases the chances of a crash.
If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a trucking accident, the big truck accident attorneys at Muth Law, P.C., can help.
With over 40 years of experience representing injured people and their families, Muth Law has earned a reputation for the superior results we obtain for our clients in even the most complex truck accident cases. To put our expertise to work for you, contact our big truck accident lawyers today.
Types of Big Truck Accidents at Intersections
When a big truck collides with a smaller vehicle or a pedestrian, the results are often catastrophic. Common types of big truck accidents at intersections include:
- Side-Impact and “T-Bone” Crashes. Side-impact collisions happen when one driver fails to yield the right of way and drives into the side of another vehicle. They are sometimes called a “T-bone” crash because the vehicles come to rest in the shape of a “T.”
- Left Turn Collisions. A left-turn collision can occur when a truck turns left at an intersection and collides with another vehicle that is turning right or proceeding straight through the intersection.
- Rear-end Collisions. Rear-end collisions are common at intersections when traffic is backed up or stops unexpectedly. They can happen when a driver misjudges the time and space needed to stop their vehicle or fails to allow an assured clear distance ahead.
- Head-on Collisions. Head-on collisions can happen when a driver misunderstands the timing of traffic signals or misjudges the speed of another vehicle. They are commonly caused by distracted driving.
Causes of Big Truck Accidents at Intersections
A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Maneuvering a vehicle of this size requires skills and training, and the results of a mistake or a split-second lapse in judgment can be catastrophic.
The risk of accidents increases at intersections where semi-trucks meet other vehicles. Here, we identify some of the additional risks and hazards present at intersections.
Blind Spots
Semi-trucks are long and tall, and truck drivers rely on their mirrors to see around them. Every semi-truck has “blind spots,” sometimes called “No-Zones,” that are not visible to the driver, even with properly adjusted mirrors. When other vehicles approach a semi-truck, these blind spots can be particularly hazardous. The risk of a big truck accident increases when passenger vehicles, motorcycles, or pedestrians are in a truck’s blind spots.
Turning Challenges
Big trucks require significantly more room to turn than cars, especially when turning right. Truck drivers often need to swing wide, taking up multiple lanes of traffic. This can confuse other drivers who might be unfamiliar with how to maneuver a big truck and think the truck is turning left or going straight. These conditions can result in a “side-swipe” collision or under-ride accident, where a smaller passenger car is trapped under the trailer of a semi-truck.
Traffic Congestion
Intersections are natural points of congestion where roads come together and traffic moves in different directions. They can be especially during peak hours. Maneuvering a big truck through a congested intersection requires constant vigilance. Rushed decision-making or aggressive driving behaviors can increase the risk of accidents at an intersection.
In addition, due to their size, weight, and increased stopping distance, it can be difficult to maneuver a big truck in stop-and-go traffic. Traffic congestion can lead to a rear-end collision if drivers do not maintain proper following distance.
Adverse Weather and Poor Road Conditions
Hazardous road conditions caused by rain, snow, ice, or road debris can make intersections particularly hazardous for big trucks. Slippery surfaces, reduced visibility, and unpredictable stopping distances increase the risk of big truck accidents at intersections.
What Do I Do If I Was Injured in a Big Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one were injured in a big truck accident, you should contact the experienced big truck accident lawyers at Muth Law, P.C., immediately. From our offices in Ann Arbor, we handle trucking accident claims throughout Michigan and nationwide.
Muth Law has proudly served the people of Michigan for over 40 years. We have a demonstrated record of success and have earned the respect of our colleagues and our clients.
Our attorneys handle big truck accident claims on a contingency fee, which means you don’t owe us a fee unless we recover money for you.
Your initial consultation is free and comes with no obligation to hire our law firm. We invite you to contact Muth Law today to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation and how we can help.
Contact Muth Law Today
Muth Law proudly represents people in Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, and throughout Michigan. Please call us at 734-481-8800 or fill out our form to schedule a free, confidential consultation. We look forward to serving your family.
