HOW LARGE IS A TRUCK’S BLIND SPOT?
Why You Should Know The “No Zone”
Most drivers understand the importance of checking their blind spots while driving or changing lanes to ensure that they’re not risking a collision with a vehicle coasting in these areas. However, drivers of passenger cars may not be mindful of when they are driving in the blind spot of a large truck. This is often due to them being unaware of where these blind spots begin and end.
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Large trucks and other similar-sized commercial vehicles have a blind spot on all four sides, largely due to their height and length. Read on to learn more about what areas are considered the blind spots or "no zone" for large trucks.
If You Can’t See the Driver, They Can’t See You
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a truck's blind spot on each side may extend to:
- Front: 20 feet ahead
- Back: 30 feet behind
- Left: one lane width
- Right: two lane widths
You should only drive in these spaces if you are planning on passing the truck. No matter how big the road, lingering in these blind spots may increase your risk of an accident. This is why the FMCSA also recommends that drivers only pass on the left side.
Likewise, it's important to remember that unless you can clearly see the driver's face in the side mirrors, they cannot see your vehicle. Be mindful of this when you or a truck are attempting to change lanes.
Queens Truck Accident Attorneys
Unfortunately, truck accidents lead to over 4,000 fatalities every year. Among these, about 97% are occupants of passenger cars. It is a shared responsibility to reduce the possibility of these accidents, and negligent drivers should be held accountable for the damages they cause.
If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a truck collision, schedule a consultation with the team at Davidoff Law today by calling (212) 900-0000.
