Sharing the road with massive trucks can be intimidating for many motorists. Their sheer size and multiple blind spots can induce a sense of insecurity, especially when driving close together. To manage these problems safely, drivers must understand where the blind spots are and how to avoid them. In the event of an accident, you should consult a truck accident attorney immediately.
What are truck blind spots?
Blind spots are places around a car that the driver cannot see well via their mirrors. Trucks, because of their size and height, have large blind spots that can cover whole lanes.
Key truck blind spots that drivers should know
- The no-zone
This wide space just behind the vehicle, which measures around 30-50 feet, is absolutely unseen to the driver.
- The passenger side blind spot
This section stretches from the truck’s front bumper to the center of the passenger side. Drivers should avoid stopping here since the truck driver may not notice them when changing lanes.
- The blind spot on the driver’s size
Despite being smaller than the passenger-side blind spot, this region at the truck’s front corner on the driver’s side can nevertheless conceal smaller cars.
Tips for staying safe in truck blind spots
- Maintain a safe following distance
Avoid driving immediately behind a truck, especially in the No-Zone. As a general guideline, allow at least four seconds of following distance for every ten miles per hour.
- Make yourself visible
Use your headlights and turn signals to make the truck driver aware of your presence. Avoid driving in the blind zones for lengthy periods.
- Communicate clearly
When overtaking a truck, be cautious and signal far ahead. Do not dart in and out of lanes since this may confuse the truck driver.
- Be cautious at intersections.
Truck drivers may have trouble seeing cars in their blind areas when turning. Be especially careful at crossroads to prevent cutting off trucks.
Things to remember
- Trucks have enormous turning radii, so they provide plenty of room as they turn.
- Be patient and avoid aggressive driving around trucks.
- If you are not sure whether a truck driver sees you, err on the side of caution and yield the right of way.
Understanding truck blind spots and following safe driving skills will help you greatly minimize the likelihood of heavy truck accidents. Sharing the road with these highway titans demands mutual respect and alertness. Remember that safety is everyone’s responsibility.
Unfortunately, truck accidents are not always avoidable, despite our best efforts. If you find yourself in such a circumstance, you should obtain legal guidance from an experienced truck accident lawyer.
