What Happens When a Truck’s Right Turn Goes Wrong

It’s something most drivers don’t think about until it happens—you're waiting at an intersection or cruising beside a semi, and suddenly, the truck swings wide for a right-hand turn. Before you know it, you're boxed in, sideswiped, or worse. Truck wide right turn accidents are more common than you might realize, and the consequences can be serious.

At TorHoerman Law, we’ve worked with clients who’ve been injured in these very situations. Whether you were behind the wheel, a passenger, or even a pedestrian, knowing what caused the accident—and what to do next—can make all the difference.

Why Right Turns Are So Dangerous for Trucks

Tractor-trailers and other large commercial vehicles can’t turn on a dime. Their length and limited maneuverability require drivers to swing out to the left before completing a right-hand turn. While this maneuver helps the truck clear the corner, it also creates confusion and danger for anyone nearby.

Here’s why it’s risky:

• Blind spots increase drastically during the turn, hiding nearby vehicles or pedestrians.
• Other drivers may misinterpret the wide swing as a left turn and try to pass on the right.
• Tight spaces near curbs, poles, or sidewalks leave little room for error.
• If a vehicle or cyclist is between the trailer and the curb, there’s often nowhere to escape.

What looks like a simple traffic move can quickly turn into a terrifying collision.

Common Injuries After a Wide Right Turn Crash

Injuries from these accidents are often severe because of the weight and size of commercial trucks. Some of the most frequent injuries we see include:

• Broken ribs or limbs from being crushed between vehicles
• Traumatic brain injuries from side impacts
• Spinal injuries from sudden, violent force
• Internal damage caused by being pinned or rolled over
• Psychological trauma, including anxiety around driving

These injuries can require months—or even years—of recovery. Medical bills add up fast, and many victims are unable to work during their healing process.

Who’s Responsible for a Wide Right Turn Accident?

While every case is different, truck drivers and their employers are often held responsible when a wide turn leads to a crash. Professional drivers are trained to be aware of their blind spots, follow traffic signals carefully, and avoid endangering nearby vehicles during turns.

Fault may lie with the driver if:

• They failed to use turn signals properly
• They didn’t check mirrors before turning
• They swung too wide without ensuring the path was clear
• They turned into multiple lanes instead of the nearest one
• They were distracted or fatigued behind the wheel

In some cases, the trucking company may share liability—especially if the driver wasn’t properly trained, was under pressure to meet delivery deadlines, or if the vehicle wasn’t properly maintained.

What to Do If You’ve Been Hit

After a crash involving a wide right turn, it’s crucial to act quickly. Your safety and future depend on it.

1. Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor at first.
2. Take photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, street layout, and any injuries.
3. Get the truck driver’s information, including their employer and insurance.
4. Avoid giving statements to the trucking company’s insurance without a lawyer.
5. Contact a truck accident attorney who can walk you through your legal options.

These steps can help you preserve crucial evidence and protect your rights in what may become a complex legal process.

TorHoerman Law Is Here to Help

At TorHoerman Law, we understand how overwhelming truck accidents can be. You’re facing pain, stress, and uncertainty—and the trucking company already has legal teams working to protect their interests. That’s why we step in. Our experienced attorneys fight for those injured by negligent truck drivers and hold companies accountable for dangerous practices.

We’ll investigate your case, gather witness statements and surveillance footage, and work with medical experts to build a strong claim. Most importantly, we’ll treat your case with the attention and compassion it deserves.

Don’t Let a Wide Turn Define Your Future

Truck Wide Right Turn Accident happen in an instant—but the impact can last a lifetime. If you or someone you love has been hurt by a truck turning too wide, TorHoerman Law is here to help you get the answers and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.