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Semi Truck Blind Spots

If you have ever driven on the highway and tried to change lanes, you have likely had this experience. You check your mirrors, you look over your shoulders, and it appears you are clear to change lanes. But you see a car right next to you at the last minute.

How did you miss it? The car was in your blind spot, that small area just over your shoulder that was not visible in your rearview mirror. Experienced drivers know to check their blind spot several times before changing lanes, but seeing a car next to you can still be difficult.

If it is difficult for car drivers to see their blind spot, think how difficult it must be for semi-truck drivers. The average semi-truck is 72 feet long. That is a lot of space in the blind spot that the driver cannot see.

Unfortunately, the blind spot is the reason behind many semi-truck accidents. A semi changes lanes and does not see a car next to them or behind them. The results can be devastating. Below is some helpful information about how to protect yourself when driving next to semi-trucks and what to do if involved in a semi-truck accident.

Where Are the Blind Spots on a Semi Truck?

While a car typically has blind spots on the side of the car, a semi-truck has blind spots all around it. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Association, semi-truck blind spots are:

• Front. A driver cannot see 20 feet in front of them. Many drivers think that the driver can see them because they are in front of the truck. This is not the case if you are within 20 feet of the truck.
• Back. A semi-truck driver cannot see anything within 30 feet of the truck. Remember, they do not have a rearview mirror to see behind them because they are hauling a trailer. They have to use their side mirrors to see behind. If you cannot see the truck’s side mirrors, the driver cannot see you.
• Left. A semi-driver also cannot see anything directly to their left in the lane. Again, they rely on their side mirror, which can only show so much. Use care when passing a semi on their left.
• Right. Semi-truck drivers have even less visibility to their right. They usually cannot see anything within two lane widths to the right. You should give trucks a wide berth as you pass them or drive next to them on the right.

Knowing where a semi truck’s blind spot is located can help you avoid danger and reduce your risk on the road.

How To Avoid Semi-Truck Blind Spot Accidents

If you are sharing the highway with semi-trucks, you will inevitably be in a truck’s blind spot at some point. However, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and reduce the risk of an accident.

• Don’t tailgate semi-trucks. Remember, a semi-driver cannot see you if you are within 30 feet of the truck’s rear. You are in a truck’s blind spot if you are in that area. Staying multiple car lengths behind a truck is always a good practice, so you have time to stop quickly if necessary.
• Always pass on the left. When you pass a truck, you will go through its blind spot at some point. However, the blind spot on the truck’s left is much smaller than the blind spot on the right. If you pass on the left, there is a greater chance the truck driver will see you. Also, passing trucks and cars on the left is always a good practice, as the left lanes are meant for higher speeds.
• Don’t stay next to a truck. Many truck accidents happen when a car drives alongside a semi and does not move. The car hangs out next to the truck and is in the blind spot for an extended period of time. When the truck goes to change lanes, the driver does not realize a car is there. If you are next to a truck, pass it quickly. When you “hang out” next to a truck, you increase the risk of an accident.

What To Do If You’re in a Georgia Truck Accident

If you are in a semi-truck accident, the first thing to do is notify authorities and seek medical treatment. It is important to have a doctor examine you as soon as possible and document any injuries you have suffered. Collect the driver’s information and get a copy of the police report if there is one.

Then contact a truck accident attorney in GA at The Law Office of Daniel R. Duello to learn the next steps in seeking compensation for your injuries. As one of the leading truck accident lawyers in GA, we can help you obtain compensation to cover your medical costs, pain and suffering, and more. Contact us today for a consultation.