Blind Spots and Truck Accidents: Know the Risks

When you’re driving in your car, you have to watch out for your blind spots. Truck drivers also must take care, for they have even greater blind spots.

With the massive size of semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles, it is imperative that truckers be well-trained in checking these areas before maneuvering.

As a rule of thumb, if you can’t see the truck driver in the truck’s side mirrors, he can’t see you. But that’s not the only spot you should watch out for when sharing the roads with trucks.

Where Are the Blind Spots on Large Trucks?

Large trucks have several blind spots that every driver should know.

Side Blind Spots

The worst blind spots for trucks are on the sides. On the right side of the truck, it can run the entire length of the trailer. This is why you’re always advised to pass trucks on the left. Even though the left side has a blind spot, truckers are trained to expect motorists to pass on that side on the highways.

Rear Blind Spot

Behind a truck, the blind spot extends nearly 200 feet. If you’re following too closely, the driver will have a hard time seeing you. You should stay back far enough to allow the truck driver to see you in their side-view mirrors.

Front Blind Spot

Those elevated cabs make it difficult for truck drivers to see anything that is right in front of them. If you are too close, the hood of the truck will block you from the trucker’s view. The blind spot extends roughly 20 feet in front of the truck. You should never merge directly in front of a truck because they may not see you.

Tips for Avoiding Truck Blind Spots While on the Road

It should go without saying, but you must be careful when you’re driving by trucks. These safety tips are what you should keep in mind the next time you see large trucks on your commute.

Know the Truck Blind Spots

Now that you know the blind spots on a large truck, stay out of them. You can slow down or accelerate to stay visible in those mirrors, and be cautious when merging.

Pass Properly

When you need to pass a truck, use the left lane. Truckers are trained to look for drivers passing on their left.

Leave Plenty of Space

Trucks take much longer to come to a safe stop. Cutting them off can create a catastrophic crash. Make sure you leave plenty of room when you are changing lanes in front of a semi-truck or other large vehicle.

Don’t Tailgate

Tailgating is a dangerous habit, and it’s even deadlier if you tailgate a truck. If the truck stops suddenly, you may wind up in a fatal collision.

Even if you leave plenty of room for trucks, pass properly, and follow the rules of the road, you may wind up in a truck accident. Once you get medical treatment for your injuries, be sure to contact a truck accident law firm to discuss your legal options.