Indiana motorists might worry about getting too close to a semi-truck. They may have concerns about the risks of entering a large truck’s substantial blind sports, and for a good reason.
Semi-trucks, accidents, and blind spots
Since semi-trucks are larger vehicles and connect a massive trailer to the driver’s cabin, the vehicles have more prominent blind spots than traditional cars or pickup trucks. When other vehicles enter the blind spot, they may be at risk for a collision since the truck driver may not see them.
Accidents with semi-trucks could result in fatalities due to a tractor-trailer’s immense size and weight. In 2018, about 4,000 people died in collisions with semi-trucks. That figure illustrates the necessity to do everything possible to avoid an accident with a semi-truck.
Awareness may begin with understanding a tractor-trailer has blind spots in all four directions. Many drivers likely realize they may not be visible in the truck’s right or left-side mirror. However, they could be unaware that the front and rear of the truck present dangerous blind spots.
Some might think a truck driver won’t have blind spots in the front. That’s not accurate, as a truck’s cabin places the driver’s seat higher than the design found in an average car. The height contributes to creating front blind spots.
Conducting research into the basics of semi-truck blind spots could help defensive drivers avoid accidents. That said, truck drivers must follow safe driving practices, too.
Safety and truck blind spots
Semi-truck drivers should not rely exclusively on the side or rear mirrors when changing lanes. Nor should the driver rely too much on lane change-assist technology. Looking over one’s shoulders before changing lanes is essential to avoid trucking accidents. However, accidents might still occur.
If the truck driver did not change lanes safely, they might face a negligence suit. Truck drivers should be aware of the dangers their blind spots present.
