In the dense traffic of Baltimore’s highways and city streets, tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, and other large commercial vehicles dominate the road. One moment of driver inattention or carelessness in a blind spot can lead to catastrophic injuries for those in smaller vehicles.
Every year, drivers and passengers are severely injured because a truck operator simply did not look carefully enough. At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we understand how devastating these collisions can be. Our team, led by Managing Attorney and Chief Litigator Ryan Dickriede, Esq., is committed to holding negligent trucking companies and drivers fully accountable.
“Even if you think your case is too difficult to prove, we will look for creative ways to win a favorable result,” says Ryan Dickriede.
We believe that your pain, your recovery, and your future matter. When a truck driver’s blind spot mistake changes your life, we are ready to fight for the justice you deserve.
The first step is to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Baltimore truck accident attorneys. We can answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Understanding Blind Spots and Truck Collisions
Large trucks have massive blind zones, areas around the vehicle where the driver cannot see other motorists, cyclists, or pedestrians. These areas can extend:
- Up to 20 feet in front of the cab
- 30 feet behind the trailer
- Two lanes wide on the truck’s right side
- One lane wide on the left
If a driver changes lanes, merges, or turns without properly checking these areas, the results can be catastrophic. Smaller vehicles may be sideswiped, pushed off the road, or trapped beneath the trailer in what is known as an underride accident.
Blind spot crashes are preventable. Professional drivers receive specialized training to manage these risks, but when they fail to follow safety protocols, innocent motorists pay the price.
The True Cost of a Blind Spot Collision
Unlike typical car crashes, blind spot truck accidents often involve vehicles weighing up to 80,000 pounds. The physics alone make the impact devastating. Victims frequently suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage or paralysis
- Complex fractures and internal injuries
- Severe whiplash or nerve damage
- Emotional trauma and post-accident anxiety
Recovery is rarely simple. Many clients face months of medical treatment, lost wages, and mounting bills. At Holzman & Dickriede, we help victims secure full compensation to rebuild their lives and safeguard their futures.
Why Blind Spot Accidents Happen
Truck drivers and trucking companies are required to follow strict federal safety regulations under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Despite this, blind spot collisions continue to occur for several reasons:
- Improper mirror adjustment or neglecting camera systems
- Driver fatigue from excessive hours behind the wheel
- Inadequate training for new or inexperienced drivers
- Distracted driving, such as texting or eating while operating a truck
- Aggressive lane changes to meet delivery deadlines
- Negligent hiring or supervision by trucking companies
Our attorneys work with accident reconstruction experts to determine exactly how and why your collision occurred. We hold every responsible party accountable, whether it is the driver, the trucking company, the vehicle manufacturer, or a third-party contractor.
Meet Attorney Ryan Dickriede, Esq.
A respected Baltimore litigator, Ryan Dickriede brings passion, skill, and integrity to every case he handles. After earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Baltimore School of Law, Ryan competed nationally in trial advocacy competitions and later served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Panama, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to service.
He has been recognized by Super Lawyers and Baltimore Magazine as a Rising Star and Top Personal Injury Attorney in Maryland. Clients describe him as honest, hardworking, and compassionate, praising his willingness to “go the extra mile” for injured families.
As Managing Attorney of Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, Ryan leads a team dedicated to one mission: achieving justice for people who have been wronged.
Steps to Take After a Blind Spot Truck Accident
If you have been involved in a collision with a commercial truck, the moments after the crash are critical. Protect your health and your legal rights by following these steps:
- Call 911 to report the accident and ensure emergency response.
- Seek medical care immediately, even if you feel fine. Internal injuries may not appear right away.
- Collect evidence, including photos of the vehicles, skid marks, and road conditions.
- Get witness information from anyone who saw the collision.
- Avoid speaking to insurance representatives without legal counsel present.
- Contact our office to schedule a free consultation and preserve your claim.
Our legal team will manage every aspect of your case, investigation, negotiations, and litigation, while you focus on recovery.
Establishing Liability in Truck Blind Spot Cases
Determining fault in these accidents requires careful analysis and knowledge of trucking law. We gather evidence from:
- Driver logs showing hours of service violations
- Dash camera or surveillance footage
- Vehicle black box data recording speed and braking
- Maintenance and inspection records
- Company training and supervision documents
Our goal is to demonstrate that the crash resulted not from “bad luck” but from clear negligence. For example, if a trucking company pressures drivers to meet unrealistic schedules, fatigue and corner-cutting often follow, increasing the risk of blind spot collisions.
The Role of Federal Trucking Regulations
The FMCSA establishes rules to protect the public from unsafe trucking practices. Violations of these standards may serve as strong evidence in your claim. Key regulations include:
- Mandatory rest periods to prevent fatigue
- Proper mirror and sensor systems to eliminate blind spots
- Regular vehicle inspections and maintenance
- Restrictions on cell phone use while operating a truck
When a company ignores these obligations, it places everyone on Baltimore’s roads in danger. Our firm uses these federal guidelines to build powerful, evidence-based cases.
Compensation Available for Victims
Truck accidents often cause extensive damages that extend far beyond the initial hospital bill. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of consortium or companionship
Our firm has a long history of obtaining meaningful settlements and verdicts for injury victims across the Baltimore metropolitan area. Every case is pursued with the same passion, detail, and determination.
Local Insight: Baltimore’s Trucking Traffic Hazards
Baltimore’s mix of industrial shipping routes and urban congestion makes it a hub for heavy truck traffic. High-risk areas often include:
- I-95 and I-895 corridors connecting the Port of Baltimore
- I-695 (Baltimore Beltway), known for tight merges and high speeds
- Harbor Tunnel Thruway and Key Bridge approaches, where blind spots increase during lane changes
- Downtown delivery zones where pedestrians and cyclists share limited space
Because our attorneys live and work in Baltimore, we understand these local dynamics. That knowledge allows us to anticipate challenges and strengthen your case with precise, location-specific details.
How Holzman & Dickriede Build Your Case
From day one, our team focuses on uncovering the truth. We:
- Investigate thoroughly, gathering digital data, maintenance logs, and witness accounts.
- Collaborate with experts, including accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals.
- Communicate directly with insurance adjusters to protect you from lowball offers.
- Prepare for trial, ensuring your case is as strong in the courtroom as it is on paper.
- Pursue maximum recovery, not just a quick settlement.
We know that success depends on preparation. Our approach combines legal strategy, scientific evidence, and compassionate advocacy.
Why Choose Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law
Experience and Results
For decades, our firm has represented Baltimore residents injured in complex truck and vehicle accidents. We understand the tactics used by large trucking corporations and insurance defense teams — and we know how to overcome them.
Personalized Legal Support
You will never be treated as a case number. We take the time to learn your story, answer your questions, and explain each step clearly.
No Fee Unless We Win
Our No Win, No Fee Guarantee means you owe us nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
Proven Reputation
Recognized by Super Lawyers and Baltimore Magazine, our attorneys are known for integrity, transparency, and results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If I Was in a Truck’s Blind Spot?
If your vehicle was alongside or just behind the trailer at the time of impact, it likely occurred in a blind spot. Our team can use crash reconstruction and vehicle data to confirm this.
Can I Sue the Trucking Company?
Yes. If the company’s training, maintenance, or scheduling policies contributed to the crash, it can be held liable in addition to the driver.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?
In Maryland, most personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the date of the accident. Acting quickly allows us to preserve crucial evidence.
Will the Truck Driver’s Insurance Cover My Damages?
Commercial policies often carry higher coverage limits, but insurers aggressively fight claims. That is why legal representation is essential.
What If I Was Partially at Fault?
Maryland’s contributory negligence rule means that if you share even a small percentage of fault, you may be barred from recovery. We work to demonstrate that the truck driver’s negligence was the true cause.
Committed to the Baltimore Community
Our office, located at 233 E. Redwood Street, Suite 400J, is in the heart of downtown Baltimore. We have deep roots in this city and a strong understanding of the challenges its residents face. Whether navigating icy harbor bridges or congested interstates, we see firsthand the dangers truck drivers pose when they fail to exercise caution.
We are proud to serve the people of Baltimore — not just as lawyers, but as advocates for safety and accountability.
How Our Firm Stands Apart
At Holzman & Dickriede, we combine the resources of a large firm with the care and attention of a local practice. Our approach is built on:
- Accessibility: You can reach us directly by phone or email at any stage of your case.
- Transparency: We provide honest assessments and straightforward advice.
- Dedication: Every case receives the time and focus it deserves.
- Community Values: We believe in improving safety for all Baltimore residents by holding negligent truck drivers accountable.
Contact Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law
If you or a loved one has been injured in a blind spot truck collision, do not wait to seek legal help. Evidence fades quickly, and trucking companies move fast to protect themselves.
Let us review your case, explain your options, and help you move forward with confidence.
Final Thoughts: Seeing What Truck Drivers Miss
A truck driver’s blind spot should never become your nightmare. When carelessness, fatigue, or corporate pressure leads to a collision, the path to justice begins with a legal team that sees every detail clearly.
At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we combine decades of litigation experience with compassion and determination. We believe that every victim deserves accountability, respect, and the financial recovery needed to heal.
“Our job is to make sure our clients’ voices are heard, because their stories matter,” says Ryan Dickriede, Esq.
When a truck driver fails to see you, let us be the team that stands in your corner and ensures that justice is finally seen.
