Semi Truck Blind Spots

When was the last time you traveled near an 18-wheeler? Driving near a large truck can be frightening and dangerous—particularly for drivers of smaller vehicles such as cars and motorcycles. Tractor trailers and other large trucks have large “no-zones,” also called blind spots. When you are traveling in this spots, it is difficult or impossible for a trucker to see you.

Where Are These Blind Spots?

Tractor-trailers and other commercial trucks have large blind spots on both sides and in the front and back of the vehicle.

These are areas where a truck driver cannot easily see other motorists. These areas include:.

  • Front blind spots. The front blind spot is directly in front of the truck. It is caused by the truck’s engine and may extend 10 to 20 feet in front of the truck, depending on the truck’s design. The biggest danger for vehicles in this blind spot is if the truck has to make a sudden stop.
     
  • Side blind spots. There are significant blind spots on each side of the truck. The driver side blind spot extends from the right front corner of the truck to slightly behind the cab door and extends one lane beside the truck. The other blind spot extends from the driver’s door and out to the side as far as 100 to 200 feet behind the truck. This blind spot reaches across two lanes of traffic.
     
  • Rear blind spots. Truck drivers cannot see vehicles that are directly behind their trucks.

The blind spots or no-zones can result in serious truck accidents. If you can, it is important to try to avoid driving or riding in a truck’s blind spot. Sometimes, however, it is unavoidable due to traffic conditions and you are dependent on the trucker to be aware of the blind spots and avoid crashes. A trucker should, for example, adjust his mirrors to minimize blind spots, visually check blind spots before changing lanes, and be aware that there could always be a vehicle in a blind spot.

Take Action If You’re Hurt in a Truck Crash

If you have been hurt while traveling in a no-zone or in any other type of truck accident then it is important to know your rights. Our Wisconsin truck accident lawyers can complete a thorough investigation in order to determine what caused your truck accident and to help you recover fair damages for your injuries. Please contact us online or call us directly at 800.800.5678 today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.

Jason F. Abraham
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Helping car accident and personal injury victims throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa since 1993.