Big rigs and trucks are a common sight all across American highways. As a country, we depend on these vehicles to deliver goods from one end of the seaboard to the other. However, these large vehicles also pose a danger to other drivers out there on the road. Due to the sheer dimension of this type of truck, they have a massive blind spot that other motorists need to be aware of.
Where are the Blind Spots on a Big Rig?
A big rig takes up a lot of space on the road as they’re tall and wide. Mirrors are designed on these freighters to be in several large spots where the driver of the truck will not be able to see any smaller cars around them.
The big blind spots are:
- Directly in front of the truck
- The entire left side, blinding the driver to several lanes of traffic
- On the right side, the truck driver only gets a mirror image that is also blind to at least three lanes of traffic
- In the back is the big rig’s biggest blind spot; cars should stay at least 30 feet behind a big rig
It’s best to avoid getting too close to any eighteen-wheeler. Assume that if you cannot see the driver, they can’t see you. The general rule on the road is to give a truck at least 20 feet of space in any direction.
Avoiding a Big Rig’s Blind Spots
By taking a few precautions, you can avoid injuring yourself and others in a big rig accident. Use these tips to avoid a big rig’s blind spots:
- Avoid the “No Zone,” which is the closest areas around the truck. If you’re directly next to the truck, you should know that they do not see you.
- The worst blind spot on a truck is the one right behind it. Whereas drivers have a mirror that sees in the back of them, truck drivers don’t see as well because of the cargo they’re carrying.
- Pass big rigs slowly and carefully, making sure the driver sees you turning. If you have to pass a big rig, make sure the driver of the truck acknowledges you to avoid a damaging accident.
- Never cut in front of a big rig. A vehicle that size going at top speed may not always be able to stop in time to let you through. Be patient when passing.
- Be careful of wide turns made by trucks. Trucks have slower reflexes and it takes them a while to make a turn. Give yourself distance from any big rig that’s turning on the road.
The possibility of being injured in a large truck accident remains even when you take all of the necessary precautionary steps. It merely takes one negligent party to endanger all commuters. If injured in a truck accident, reach out to the Louisiana truck accident attorneys at E. Orum Young Law Offices. We can evaluate case details, file the necessary paperwork on your behalf, and engage in negotiation with the insurance company. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. Our Trial Guarantee ensures that we’ll take your case to trial per your request.
