Blind spots are an inevitable part of driving, especially for those maneuvering large commercial trucks. Unlike passenger vehicles, commercial trucks have significantly larger blind spots, which can lead to dangerous situations on the road. This blog aims to shed light on these blind spots and how both truck drivers and other road users can navigate around them safely.

What Are Blind Spots on Commercial Trucks?

Blind spots are areas around a vehicle that the driver cannot see, even with the use of mirrors. These zones are hazardous because drivers may inadvertently change lanes or make turns without noticing other vehicles in these spots. Despite semi-trucks having a better forward view and larger mirrors compared to passenger vehicles, their blind spots remain substantial.

Key Blind Spots on Semi-Trucks

Directly in Front of the Cab: This blind spot extends approximately 20 feet in front of the truck.

Directly Behind the Trailer: This area stretches about 30 feet behind the truck.

Sides of the Truck: Blind spots are located along each side of the truck, extending diagonally backward.

Below and Behind the Driver’s Side Window: This spot is immediately below and behind the driver’s side window, making it difficult to see vehicles in close proximity.

Why Do Semi-Trucks Have Larger Blind Spots?

Semi-trucks have larger blind spots for several reasons:

• Lack of Rear-View Mirrors: Unlike passenger vehicles, semi-trucks do not have rear-view mirrors.
• Height of the Truck: The tall height of semi-trucks makes it harder for drivers to see surrounding vehicles.
• Length of the Truck: Semi-trucks can range from 70 to 80 feet in length, significantly reducing visibility. Trucks with triple trailers can exceed 100 feet, having the largest blind spots on the road.
• Truck drivers must be aware of these factors and effectively check their blind spots when changing lanes, making turns, or maneuvering their vehicles to prevent accidents.

Common Causes of Blind Spot Accidents

Blind spot accidents involving semi-trucks can occur due to various reasons, often because the truck driver fails to see a smaller vehicle. Some common causes include:

• Following Closely: Vehicles following closely behind or in front of the semi-truck can be in the driver’s blind spots.
• Aggressive Maneuvers: Sudden braking or cutting off other vehicles by truck drivers can lead to accidents.
• Failure to Check Blind Spots: Not checking blind spots before changing lanes is a frequent cause of collisions.
• Driver Fatigue or Impairment: Fatigue or impairment can prevent truck drivers from properly monitoring their surroundings.
• Abrupt Lane Changes and Distracted Driving: Sudden lane changes and distracted driving are significant contributors to blind spot accidents.

Regardless of the cause, truck drivers should be held responsible if their failure to check blind spots results in harm to others on the road. Understanding the blind spots on commercial trucks is crucial for both truck drivers and other road users. 

By being aware of these blind spots and taking appropriate precautions, we can all contribute to safer roads. Truck drivers should always check their blind spots before making any maneuvers, and other drivers should avoid lingering in these dangerous zones.