If you have to share the road with semi-trucks – and everyday occurrence for most drivers – it is very important to know where the blind spots are located so that you can avoid them. You should spend as little time in these blind spots as possible to lower your odds of being involved in a crash. Many people also refer to these as “no zones” where you should not drive when possible.
First of all, there are blind spots both in front of and behind the truck. This is why it is important to leave a proper following distance and to never cut off a semi-truck – such as when you are approaching a red light. The truck driver cannot see your vehicle if you are too close to either bumper.
Next, there are blind spots toward the rear of the truck, on both sides. The mirrors do provide some visibility, and those mirrors are larger on a semi-truck than they are on passenger vehicles, but this is not a perfect solution. Cars can still disappear from the driver’s view.
Can you drive safely?
One important thing to keep in mind is that you want to make every maneuver authoritatively. Don’t take your time or slowly pass a semi-truck by going one mile per hour faster than the truck driver on the interstate. Make your passes intentional and as quick as you can – without breaking the speed limit, of course – so that you spend less time in the truck’s blind spots.
What if you suffer injuries?
Even if you know how to avoid these blind spots, truck drivers can still make mistakes that cause serious accidents. If you have suffered injuries in such a crash, take the time to look into all of your legal options to seek financial compensation.