A truck’s size can make it difficult to judge how much space you have around it. That can become a problem when you are driving in an area the truck driver cannot see clearly. Knowing where these areas are can help you recognize the risk.
Where are a truck’s no-zones?
A truck’s no-zones are the areas around the truck where the driver has limited or no visibility. They can occur directly behind the trailer, along both sides of the truck and in front of the cab.
The size of these areas can vary depending on the truck and its mirrors. A vehicle traveling alongside a truck, for example, may remain out of the driver’s view even when the truck driver appears to be looking in that direction.
Why can no-zones lead to crashes?
No-zones become dangerous when a truck driver cannot see a nearby vehicle and changes lanes, turns or otherwise moves into that vehicle’s path. A smaller vehicle can spend several seconds in a blind spot without realizing the truck driver cannot see it.
This creates particular risks when a vehicle stays alongside the truck or follows too closely behind the trailer. The truck driver may not know the vehicle is there until a collision occurs.
How can you stay out of a truck’s no-zones?
The best way to avoid a truck’s no-zones is to avoid staying alongside the truck for too long and give it plenty of room. A simple rule can help: if you are unable to see the truck’s mirrors, the driver likely cannot see you either.
Know where trucks may not see you
A truck driver may not see your vehicle even when you are close enough to be in danger. If a truck changes lanes or turns into your vehicle, the location of your car and what the driver could see can become important in determining what caused the crash. If you were hurt in a truck crash, an attorney can help you look at those details and determine whether the truck driver’s actions contributed to what happened.