Truck Accidents and Truckers’ Blind Spots
Although it might seem as if big rig drivers can see everything, they actually operate under some pretty large “no zones” or blind spots. This makes truckers particularly susceptible to running into smaller vehicles such as cars and motorcycles.
Every driver should get to know truckers’ blind spots, as well as how to avoid staying too long in any of them.
The Biggest “No Zones” for Trucks
Where are the well-known blind spots for any 18-wheeler or similarly large-sized commercial truck?
One is to the left and behind the truck. Cars traveling in this area cannot be seen by the trucker. Consequently, the truck driver may try to move to the left lane, not realizing that a car is in the path. Not surprisingly, the car will likely be very seriously damaged, and quite possibly the car driver and passengers.
Along with the left catty-corned “no zone” listed above are the sides of the truck cab and trailer. Drivers of passenger vehicles who travel on the side of the truck and cannot see the face of the trucker can be nearly certain sure the trucker cannot see them, either.
Another “no zone” is directly in front of the truck cab. Cars and motorcycles traveling almost up against the front of the cab are out of the trucker’s sight. In heavy or stopped traffic, the trucker may know they are there because of the limited speed. However, a car that has suddenly moved into place right in front of the bed may have done so without the trucker’s awareness.
A fourth blind spot is right behind the back of the truck. Thus, tailgating should be curbed. A truck may have to stop quickly, which could lead a car to crash into its trailer. Because the trailer weighs so much more than the car, the car often crumples under the impact.
Tips to Staying Out of Truck Blind Spots
Every car driver or motorcyclist wants to stay safe on the road. Therefore, they should always practice some smart roadway habits when sharing highways with big rigs.
The first is to know and remember each blind spot. The second is to remove the car or motorcycle from the blind spot as quickly and safely as possible. Doing this gets the vehicle back into the trucker’s sight.
The second is to not deliberately travel in “no zones”. Sometimes, drivers cruise along and forget that they are in a “no zone.” With every passing mile, they could be increasing their odds of getting in a serious truck accident.
Finally, car drivers should use their horns if a trucker begins to merge into their lanes. Truck drivers can hear loud horns and know they have “no zones.” Therefore, a trucker will likely be attuned to understanding that they should stop their merging behavior.
Above all else, drivers of cars and motorcycles should not assume that a truck can safely see them just because it has mirrors. Side and rearview mirrors simply cannot give truckers the whole picture.
Highland Park Truck Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Bring Justice to Victims of Truck Accidents
Were you seriously injured in a New Jersey traffic accident because a truck did not see your vehicle due to a blind spot? Even if you were partially to blame, you may be entitled to damages. Call the Highland Park truck accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr for a free initial consultation. Our office can be reached at 732-537-8570. You can also send us an online contact form to arrange a free consultation with a knowledgeable, compassionate attorney. We have a long history of serving clients from such towns and municipalities as Sayreville, Metuchen, Edison, South River, New Brunswick, East Brunswick, Bound Brook, Middlesex, Somerset, South Plainfield, Perth Amboy, Old Bridge, Fords, Colonia, Piscataway, and Iselin.
