Even the most experienced and conscientious semi-truck drivers can be tricked by blind spots. These are the areas around vehicles that drivers cannot see, even when using mirrors. Blind spots are dangerous because it is hard to see vehicles that are close. Every vehicle has blind spots, but with these large trucks, they are much more significant:
- Front blind spot: This extends out across the whole width of an 18-wheeler’s cab, at least 20 feet.
- Driver-side blind spot: The is on the left, stretching out one lane from the side. It starts at the driver’s seat and also goes back approximately three-quarters of the way down.
- Passenger-side blind spot: This blind spot is even longer than the one on the left because it extends out to two lanes on the right side. It starts at the front end and keeps going until 10 to 20 feet from the truck’s back end.
- Rear blind spot: A tractor-trailer’s rear blind spot runs the entire width of the back of the trailer and back out for 30 feet.
Larger trucks mean bigger blind spots, and this is a real safety concern. When drivers cannot see their vehicles in truck mirrors, truckers cannot see them. It is up to truckers to drive safely and defensively and be aware of what is around them. Serious crashes can occur when truck drivers do not see other vehicles in their blind spots.
Here are common ways blind spots cause truck accidents:
- Drivers do not see aggressive maneuvers, like speeding or illegal passing, until it is too late because they did not check their mirrors.
- Other vehicles are following too closely on the sides or tailgating.
- Sudden lane changes when other vehicles are in the lanes can cause sideswipe crashes.
- Trucks follow other vehicles too closely.
- The risk of blind spot accidents increases when truckers are fatigued, distracted, inexperienced, or under the influence.
Training Helps Truck Drivers Reduce Blind Spot Accidents
Training is crucial for truck drivers, and this includes learning how to adjust techniques to accommodate for reduced visibility. During training, drivers are taught how to recognize the signs and driving patterns that indicate when other vehicles are in their zones.
Besides constantly checking the mirrors, truck drivers can look for shadows cast by nearby vehicles. This depends on the time of day and weather conditions, but experienced truckers understand how to look for them. Truckers should also remember to clean their mirrors frequently and adjust them as needed.
Making the Most Out of Technology
Today’s trucks are equipped with modern safety technologies that help reduce accidents. Besides rear-view cameras, some have passenger-side mirrors and additional hood mirrors. Newer technologies are designed to assist truck drivers but are not a substitute for safe driving.
Space Around the Vehicle
The best way to prevent blind spot accidents is to give truck drivers enough space. Maintain safe following distances. The right lane is usually the safest place for a truck, though driving conditions are constantly changing.
Truck drivers should be extra careful in poor weather conditions and around construction sites. These hazards require them to reduce speed. It can be even harder to see other vehicles in a storm, and any that are too close might skid into the truck. With construction sites, there might be workers, equipment, and construction vehicles entering their blind spots.
Who Is Liable for a Truck Accident?
Every truck accident case is different, so the evidence can point in different directions. The liability could be placed on a truck driver, the trucking company, a truck parts manufacturer, or a truck maintenance company. There can be more than one responsible party too.
Cincinnati Truck Accident Lawyers at the Wolterman Law Office Represent Those Who Have Been Injured in Truck Accidents
Blind spots are just one factor that leads to truck accidents. If you have been injured in a blind spot truck accident, speak with one of our Cincinnati truck accident lawyers at the Wolterman Law Office. Complete our online form or call us at 513-488-1135 to schedule a free consultation. Located in Loveland, Ohio, we serve clients in Hamilton County, Fairfield, Norwood, and Forest Park.