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There is no doubt.. No one wants to be involved in an auto accident. While we all do our best to exercise caution when driving along the roadways, recent statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) demonstrate that nearly 840,000 “blind spot” accidents occur each year in the U.S., resulting in over 300 fatalities. “Blind Spot” refers to the an area of a vehicle that cannot be seen directly while the driver is well-positioned at the wheel. This is primarily caused by inaccurate positioned mirrors or cargo which reduces visibility, as well as simple position of the vehicles.

Injuries And Accidents Caused By Blind Spots

According to NHTSA studies, blind spot accidents are typically attributable to drivers who switch lanes without proper observation of surrounding vehicles. In other words, drivers are negligent and fail to pay attention to the other vehicles on the roadway and use their mirrors appropriately. Roadway conditions like round-abouts and multiple lane roads, particularly busy highways, can increase the incidence of blind spot accidents. While many newer vehicles are being manufactured with driver warning systems to warn of vehicles that may be in their blind spot, it is still absolutely imperative that drivers across Florida exercise caution and take precautionary measures to avoid such accidents.

List Of Common Blind Spot Accidents

Common Blind Spot Accidents include the following:
• Sideswipes;
• Rear-to-Side Collisions;
• Rear-to-Front Collisions;
• Rollovers; and
• Passenger Vehicle & Truck Accidents.
Blind Spot Accident Injuries
The extent of the damages that are caused from the above accidents obviously vary from case to case. Factors such as the speed of the vehicles, the nature of the vehicles involved and the forces that can occur (particularly in severe accidents like roll overs) can often dictate the types and extent of injuries sustained. The following is a list of some of the myriad of injuries that can occur:

• Broken Glass Abrasions and cuts;
• Bruising and contusions;
• Whiplash injuries;
• Back and Neck Injuries;
• Fractures;
• Seat Belt Injuries;
• Spinal Cord injuries;
• Internal Bleeding;
• Occupant Ejection;
• Concussions and other forms of traumatic brain injuries;
• Wrist Damage;
• Nerve injuries;
• Teeth and jaw injuries;
• Internal injuries.

How To Avoid Blind Spot Accidents

As noted above, it is imperative to make every effort to avoid the occurrence of blind spot accidents. Here are some ways to eliminate or avoid blind spots, which can significantly reduce the change of being involved in a collision:
• Adjust your mirrors so that the rear window is well framed;
• Sit in your vehicle and place your head against the window, adjust the left mirror to gain visibility of the left side of the vehicle;
• Lean-to the center of the vehicle, and adjust the right side mirror so has to ensure visibility on the right side of your vehicle;
• If possible, and can be done safely, try to turn your head to look out for cars in adjacent lanes; and
• Always watch and observe surrounding cars.

Drivers can help reduce the chance of being involved in a blind spot accident by being a defensive driver, remaining vigilant while driving and keeping in mind our previous tips. Blind spot accidents, however, are not always avoidable and may result in damages and injuries. If you or a loved one have been injured in an automobile accident, you may be able to receive compensation. Contact your Florida Auto Accident Attorneys today at 561.296.9400.