People who drive on public roads must constantly survey their surroundings and take appropriate measures to protect themselves and fellow travelers, particularly in areas with high volumes of traffic. One critical safety measure all drivers must follow is checking their vehicle's blind spots before changing lanes. Failing to check these areas can result in catastrophic accidents, and people who recklessly fail to employ such tactics should be held responsible for any losses they cause. If you were injured in a blind spot car accident, it is crucial to consult with an attorney to explore your options for seeking compensation. The experienced Syracuse personal injury lawyers of DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Personal Injury Lawyers are committed to helping victims of blind spot car accidents obtain the justice they deserve, and if we represent you, we will diligently pursue the best outcome possible in your case. We frequently represent people in car accident cases in Syracuse, Rochester, and throughout Upstate New York.
Injuries Caused by Blind Spot Car AccidentsBlind spot accidents occur when a driver fails to properly check the areas around their vehicle that are not visible through their mirrors before making a lane change or turn. These blind spots are typically located on the sides of the vehicle, especially over the driver's shoulder, where another car or object may be present but not immediately visible. When a driver does not adequately check these areas, they can inadvertently collide with another vehicle, cyclist, or pedestrian, leading to serious accidents. The injuries resulting from blind spot accidents can be severe and range from whiplash, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries to spinal cord damage and, in the most tragic cases, fatalities. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation and may lead to long-term physical and emotional suffering.
Establishing Liability in Blind Spot Car AccidentsIn New York, drivers are required by law to ensure they have a clear view before making any lane changes or turns. This responsibility includes checking all mirrors and looking over the shoulder to confirm that there is no vehicle or obstacle in their blind spots. When a driver neglects this duty and causes an accident by failing to check their blind spot, they can be held legally accountable for any resulting injuries or damages.
To establish liability in a blind spot car accident case, the plaintiff generally must demonstrate that the defendant was negligent. Under New York law, negligence is established by proving that the defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care, that they breached this duty, and that this breach directly caused the accident and the injuries sustained. In cases involving blind spot car accidents, the breach is typically clear: the driver’s failure to adequately check their blind spot before changing lanes or merging.
Comparative Negligence in New York Blind Spot CasesNew York follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means that even if the injured party is found to be partially at fault for the accident, they may still recover damages. However, the compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to them. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault for the accident, your recovery will be reduced by 30%.
Recoverable Damages in Cases Arising Out of Blind Spot AccidentsVictims of blind spot car accidents in New York may be entitled to various forms of compensation. This can include reimbursement for medical expenses, costs for future medical care, and repairs or replacement of damaged property. Additionally, they may be able to recover lost wages if their injuries prevent them from working, as well as compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
Speak With a Skilled Car Accident Attorney in Syracuse, Rochester, or Upstate New York TodayBlind spot accidents frequently cause injuries that require extensive medical treatment, and people who cause such collisions should be held accountable. If you were involved in a blind spot accident, you should speak with an attorney regarding your rights. At DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Personal Injury Lawyers, our skilled Syracuse personal injury attorneys are proficient at helping victims of collisions caused by negligent drivers seek damages for their harm. If we represent you, we will fight to help you seek the results you deserve. We frequently assist people in the pursuit of compensation in car accident lawsuits in Syracuse, Rochester, and throughout Upstate New York. To arrange a confidential and free meeting, you can reach us through our online form or by calling us at 833-200-2000.