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What Are a Truck’s Blind Spots?

Overhead shot of an overpass and two highway lanes underneath with 3 trucks traveling on each roadway.
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If you’ve been in an accident involving a truck, it is essential to understand the dangers of these large vehicles. Many people know that trucks have blind spots, but do they know exactly where they are? This blog will cover where the blind spots on a truck are located, areas to avoid when driving near a truck, and best practices for staying safe around large trucks.

In addition, we will address important questions like why blind spots around large trucks are so big, why semi-trucks have larger blind spots than cars, and discuss common causes of blind spot truck accidents, the types of injuries they cause, and who might be liable in such accidents. Let’s get started.

Blind Spots on a Truck

Trucks have four main blind spots, often called "no-zones." These no-zones include the front, rear, and both sides of the truck. Understanding these blind spots is crucial for staying safe around large trucks.

The Front No-Zone

The front no-zone is located directly in front of the truck’s bumper and can extend up to 20 feet in length. Drivers of large trucks may have difficulty seeing cars in this area due to the height of the truck. Staying clear of this zone helps ensure that the truck driver can see your vehicle.

The Back No-Zone

The back no-zone extends from the rear of the trailer up to 200 feet. This area is especially hazardous because trucks can stop or slow down suddenly. Maintaining a distance of at least 200 feet behind a truck reduces the risk of rear-end collisions in case of abrupt stops.

Side No-Zones

The side no-zones extend roughly 10 feet from each side of the truck. These areas can be especially dangerous if a car passes too closely or tries to merge abruptly. Because trucks take longer to stop and react, always allow plenty of space when passing or merging next to them on the highway.

Why Are Blind Spots Around Large Trucks So Big?

Blind spots around large trucks are bigger than those around smaller vehicles due to their height, length, and design. Truck drivers sit much higher than drivers of passenger vehicles, making it harder for them to see smaller cars that are closer to their truck. Additionally, the long trailers attached to semi-trucks create larger blind spots, especially to the sides and rear.

Why Do Semi-Trucks Have Larger Blind Spots Than Cars?

Compared to cars, semi-trucks have significantly larger blind spots because of their massive size and shape. The cab of the truck is positioned much higher off the ground, creating visibility challenges at the front and sides. The trailer attached to the cab further increases the distance and size of the areas that are not visible to the driver. Even with the use of large mirrors, truck drivers cannot see certain areas close to the truck, making these blind spots especially dangerous.

Common Causes of Blind Spot Truck Accidents

Several factors contribute to accidents caused by truck blind spots, including:

  • Improper Lane Changes: A truck driver may not see a vehicle in their side no-zone while changing lanes, leading to collisions.
  • Tailgating: Drivers who follow too closely to a truck might be in the rear no-zone, making it impossible for the truck driver to see them, increasing the risk of a rear-end accident.
  • Passing on the Right: Passing on the right can put drivers in a truck's blind spot. Trucks often make wide right turns, and a car in this zone may be sideswiped.

Types of Injuries in Truck Accidents Caused by Blind Spots

Accidents involving large trucks and blind spots can result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of the truck. Some common injuries include:

  • Head and Brain Injuries: The force of impact can lead to traumatic brain injuries.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in partial or full paralysis.
  • Broken Bones: The sheer force of a collision with a truck can cause fractures.
  • Internal Injuries: Blunt trauma can lead to serious damage to internal organs.

Who Is Liable for a Blind Spot Truck Accident in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, determining liability in a truck accident caused by blind spots can depend on multiple factors. The truck driver may be held responsible if they failed to check blind spots before making a maneuver. However, the trucking company could also share liability if inadequate training, poor vehicle maintenance, or other negligence contributed to the crash.

On the other hand, if a driver of a passenger vehicle engaged in reckless behavior, such as driving aggressively or following too closely, they may be found partially or fully liable for the accident.

Compensation for Blind Spot Truck Accident Cases

Victims of blind spot truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical Expenses: Covering costs related to hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
  • Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed at work due to recovery.
  • Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain and emotional distress.
  • Property Damage: Compensation for vehicle repairs or replacement.

Best Practices When Driving Around Trucks

To avoid any potential accidents involving large trucks, here are some tips for best practices when driving around them:

  • Maintain at least one car length between yourself and any commercial vehicles you encounter; this will give you enough time to react if necessary.
  • Avoid passing or merging too closely with commercial vehicles; this can cause you to get into their blind spot.
  • Be aware that most commercial vehicles require additional braking distance; leave extra space between yourself and one if possible.

While it's crucial for all drivers—whether they're driving passenger cars or big rigs—to practice safe driving habits at all times, understanding what areas compose trucks’ “no-zones“ can help reduce risks associated with sharing roads with these massive machines. By avoiding these areas whenever possible, knowing what best practices should be followed while operating motor vehicles near large trucks, and staying aware while sharing roads with others, everyone can help ensure everyone gets home safely every day!

Baton Rouge Truck Accident Attorneys

Here at Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys, our attorneys are dedicated to ensuring the roadways are safer for all motorists by holding negligent parties responsible for the injuries they cause. If you need legal representation after a truck accident, call Corzo at (225) 230-3110 or fill out our secure online contact form to schedule a free consultation.

By staying aware of a truck’s blind spots, following best practices, and being mindful of the dangers trucks pose on the road, we can all work together to reduce accidents and ensure safer roads for everyone.