Many factors can cause car accidents on Indiana roads. One accident that isn’t immediately thought of involves a vehicle’s blind spots. Below are the causes of blind spot collisions and how to avoid them.
Understanding blind spots
Usually, when people think about blind spots and motor vehicle accidents, they associate them with huge trucks. While these vehicles are more prone to these collisions, smaller passenger vehicles also have blind spots that can result in devastating situations. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 800,000 accidents occur each year due to blind spots; these crashes lead to around 300 deaths annually.
Blind spots are areas around a vehicle where the driver can’t see directly behind them. This can impact people in other cars and motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians. If you can’t see a driver in their vehicle’s mirrors, they can’t see you; this can be a recipe for disaster, especially when traveling too closely behind the vehicle or trying to pass within their blind spot.
Preventing blind spot accidents
Drivers can prevent blind spot accidents by taking specific steps. Continuously checking the vehicle’s mirrors and ensuring they are correctly adjusted helps with visibility. However, it’s crucial not to depend on mirrors entirely; drivers should always turn their heads and look all around them when appropriate to prevent a potential accident.
Keeping a safe distance behind the vehicle ahead can also prevent blind spot accidents. Never tailgate and stay within the legal, safe speed limit. Avoid passing vehicles from the right; it’s essential to never pass a commercial truck in this manner or when not a safe distance away from it. Although a car’s length is appropriate for a passenger vehicle, drivers should give extra room when traveling behind trucks because they take longer to stop.
Remain alert and aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions that compromise your awareness of blind spots. Don’t drive if you have been drinking or when tired, as it can negatively affect your judgment, reaction time, and ability to control a vehicle safely.
