Operating a Truck in Reverse Can Be Deadly

Operating a tractor-trailer in reverse is one of the most challenging tasks for a truck driver. With blind spots, the weight of the truck, and often no backup cameras like smaller vehicles have, truck drivers need to be incredibly careful when reversing their rigs. Backup accidents involving tractor-trailers are dangerous, and can even be deadly.

Operating a truck in reverse is dangerous no matter how safe the driver is behind the wheel, including if there is a spotter for the driver. They’re even more dangerous if the trucker is attempting to reverse around a corner, or into a loading dock. Those dangers include:

• Jackknifing the truck
• Running over a pedestrian or the spotter
• Tipping the truck
• Causing the product being hauled to fall onto the street
• Occupying multiple lanes, causing traffic jams
• Colliding with other vehicles or buildings

What makes backing up a truck so challenging?

Blind spots are a real concern for big-rig drivers. Even with the little “bubble mirrors” attached to the side-view mirrors, it can be difficult to judge distance accurately, or to see all of the space behind the trailer. Most truck drivers will not operate their truck in reverse unless they have someone who can act as a spotter for them. A spotter acts as a second set of eyes for blind spots, pedestrians, other vehicles, buildings, and any other objects that could lead to an accident.

But blind spots are not the only concerns. Weather conditions can cause low visibility, and make it difficult to see where one is going. This is especially true for truckers who pick up/drop off their cargo late at night or early in the morning. Certain locations also make it harder to back-up because there is little room to maneuver.

Many backup accidents may be blamed on driver inexperience, too. It is one thing to drive a tractor-trailer down a highway; it is another to maneuver through crowded city streets. If a driver does not have enough experience to handle the rig, he or she may make mistakes that can cost people their limbs or their lives.

Common injuries suffered in backup truck accidents

Trucking accidents that involve the truck backing up into a vehicle, building, pedestrian, or another object can lead to serious injuries and even death. Some of the most common injuries caused by truck backup accidents include:

• Crushing injuries leading to limb loss
• Internal injuries such as bruised ribs, internal bleeding, and damage to your organs
• Broken bones and fractures
• Spinal cord damage
• Traumatic brain injury
• Wrongful death

Were you injured in a backup accident? Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers understands how costly it can be when injured in a trucking accident. Call our office at 312-600-9585 or complete a contact form on our website to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Chicago truck accident lawyer today.