Sharing the road with semi-trucks is a reality for most drivers. While these large vehicles are crucial for transporting goods across the country, their size and design create significant blind spots that can pose dangers to other motorists. Understanding where these blind spots are and how to navigate them safely is essential for preventing accidents.
Where Are a Truck’s Blind Spots Located?
Semi-trucks have substantial blind spots, often referred to as “no-zones,” where a car is invisible to the truck driver. These blind spots are located around the front, back, and sides of the truck:
- The area directly behind the driver’s door and extending back along the left side of the truck
- The area from the right side of the semi’s cab extending toward the back of the truck
- The area approximately 20 feet directly in front of the semi-truck
- The area approximately 30 feet behind the truck
A general safety tip is if you cannot see the truck driver in their side mirror, assume they cannot see you. If you are approaching a semi-truck, it is essential to avoid these areas so that you can reduce the risk of a collision.
The Dangers of Staying in a Semi-Truck’s Blind Spots
Venturing into a semi-truck’s blind spots carries inherent risks. When a smaller passenger vehicle occupies these spaces, it essentially vanishes from the truck driver’s field of vision. The truck driver may attempt to change lanes or maneuver the truck without being aware of the smaller vehicle’s presence, leading to potentially devastating accidents.
Additionally, in situations where sudden braking is necessary, vehicles following too closely behind a truck may not have enough time to stop, resulting in rear-end collisions. If a driver is directly in front of a truck, they risk not being seen and could be caught in a dangerous underride collision.
When driving near semi-trucks, it’s essential to be aware of their blind spots and take steps to minimize your time within these areas. Here are a few tips to help you safely share the road with large trucks:
- Pass Quickly and Safely: If you need to pass a truck, do so quickly and safely, ensuring that you can see the truck driver in the vehicle’s mirror before pulling in front of them. Avoid lingering in the truck’s side blind spots.
- Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance when driving behind a truck, allowing for at least a 4-second gap. This distance gives you more time to react to sudden stops or changes in the truck’s speed.
- Be Visible: Use your headlights in dim or dark conditions to make your vehicle more visible to truck drivers. When passing, avoid doing so on the right where the blind spot is larger.
- Anticipate Wide Turns: Trucks require a wider radius to turn. If you see a truck signaling a turn, give it ample space, as the truck may need to swing wide or change lanes to complete the turn safely.
Contact a Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer for Assistance
Accidents can still happen, and if you are injured by a semi-truck in Kansas City, you have the right to pursue legal action. A truck accident lawyer in Kansas City can guide you through this process, proving the driver’s negligence and helping you fight for the compensation that you deserve. Schedule a free case consultation as soon as possible to discuss your next steps.