When most drivers think about semi-trucks, they picture long hauls and heavy cargo — not the invisible zones that surround every rig. But as recent investigations and deadly crashes show, truck blind spots are claiming more lives than ever, and outdated safety rules aren’t keeping up.
A 2025 InvestigateTV report revealed a troubling rise in blind spot crashes involving large trucks nationwide. And just this month, Atlanta News First reported on a devastating I-85 collision that killed eight people — a stark reminder of the catastrophic results when visibility, speed, and safety break down on the highway.
These stories highlight what Greenville truck accident attorney Thomas Creech has seen for more than two decades: when truck drivers or their employers cut corners, innocent people pay the price.
Blind Spots: The “Invisible Zones” That Cause Real Damage
Blind spots on tractor-trailers are much larger than most people realize. Cars can completely disappear along both sides, directly in front of the cab, and behind the trailer. When truck drivers fail to check these areas carefully — or lack the technology to help them do so — tragic outcomes follow.
According to national crash data cited in the InvestigateTV report:
- About one in three truck accidents involves a vehicle the driver couldn’t see.
- Roughly 300 deaths per year are directly tied to blind-spot crashes.
- The number of fatalities involving large trucks has risen by nearly 40% in the past decade.
While modern safety mirrors and camera systems can reduce risk, federal regulations have been slow to require them. Some fleets voluntarily install advanced mirrors or blind spot sensors — and those that do report a 30% drop in claims — but others continue to rely on outdated setups.
When companies choose not to act, that inaction can lead directly to injury or loss of life.
The I-85 Crash: A Stark Reminder of Accountability
In mid-October 2025, a tractor-trailer driver was charged after a horrific I-85 crash that left eight people dead. The driver faces multiple counts of vehicular homicide and distracted driving. While the investigation continues, the case underscores a painful truth. Every second of inattention or reckless behavior behind the wheel of a truck can have fatal and permanent consequences for innocent motorists and their families.
For families affected by truck crashes in South Carolina, the road to justice can be long and complicated. Trucking companies and insurers move quickly to protect themselves. Victims need someone who knows how to uncover the truth, preserve evidence, and hold negligent parties accountable.
That’s where experienced Greenville trucking accident lawyer Thomas Creech steps in.
Why Experience Matters in Trucking Accident Cases
Trucking accident cases are, in a sense, cases against big, sophisticated corporate entities and their large insurance companies. These cases also involve complex federal trucking safety standards, multiple liable parties, and powerful corporate defense lawyer teams. Thomas Creech brings over 20 years of civil litigation and trial experience in handling motor vehicle crash cases in the Upstate of South Carolina, helping clients pursue full compensation for:
- Medical expenses and future care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Serious permanent, life-long injuries
- Wrongful death
- Property damage
From following too closely (a common cause of catastrophic rear-end truck blind spot collisions) to equipment failures to sleepy or impaired truck drivers, we investigate every factor. We also dig deep, obtaining and reviewing electronic data, driver logs, and maintenance records to identify the root cause of a crash. We leave no stone unturned and are thorough in our approach.
“These aren’t just numbers or case files — they’re people’s lives forever changed,” Creech says. “Our job is to uncover what went wrong and make sure it doesn’t happen again.”
Report erratic or aggressive truck driving. If you’re on the road or on the highway and see erratic or unsafe aggressive driving by a trucker, CALL *47 the South Carolina Highway Patrol Hotline immediately and make a report.
It could save a life — maybe even yours.
Justice for Trucking Victims in South Carolina
If you, or a close relative, or a family member, have been injured in a crash involving a commercial truck, you don’t have to face this alone. The Thomas Creech Law Offices has extensive experience representing victims and their families in motor vehicle crash cases throughout Greenville, SC, and all over the Upstate of South Carolina. We see you, we hear you and we will help you! Call us today for an immediate FREE Consultation.
We’ll handle the investigation, negotiations, the litigation and everything in the courtroom. You need to focus on picking up the pieces and putting your life back together again. One step at a time.
Call today to schedule a FREE consultation immediately with Greenville, SC, truck accident attorney Thomas Creech.
Let’s fight for the truth, accountability, and the compensation you seriously and honestly deserve.
