What are the No-Zones Around a Truck?

The dangerous blind spots around large commercial vehicles are referred to as ‘no-zones.’ These blind spots have earned their nickname due to the fact that when smaller cars are in these areas, they can disappear from the truck driver’s view. As such, drivers of passenger vehicles should do everything they can to avoid being in them. Below, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident attorney outlines what you need to know about no-zones.

The Front No-Zone

Although it may seem as though the front of a truck would not have a blind spot, this is not true. Due to the fact that the front of the truck extends so far out and that the driver is sitting up much higher than smaller vehicles, truck drivers cannot see for approximately 20 feet in front of them.

Drivers that move into this space are at great risk. If a driver needs to suddenly brake, the trucker may not see them in enough time to avoid an accident. The huge weight difference between smaller vehicles and 18-wheelers make these collisions particularly devastating.

The Side No-Zones 

For drivers of passenger vehicles, the no-zones on both sides of a truck present the biggest challenge. The no-zone on the right side of a truck is the most dangerous because it spans the full length of the trailer. It also extends into the two adjacent lanes. The no-zone on the right side of the truck is smaller because truck drivers can directly see vehicles, or use their mirror to see them.

Drivers of passenger vehicles should try to avoid staying in a truck’s blind spots, particularly those on the side, for an extended period of time. It is important to remember that if you cannot see a truck driver through their window or mirror, the driver cannot see you, either. Some of the worst crashes occur when other motorists remain in a truck’s no-zones for too long.

The Rear No-Zone 

Although most people realize truck drivers have a blind spot in the rear of their vehicle, they often do not realize just how large this no-zone is. The rear no-zone extends approximately 30 feet from the back of the vehicle, as truck drivers do not have the help of a rearview mirror. The high position of the trailer also makes it impossible for truckers to see if a vehicle is behind their truck.

It is recommended that drivers maintain a following distance of at least four seconds when they are behind an 18-wheeler. This can provide enough time for motorists to react if the truck needs to suddenly stop.

Our 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney in San Antonio Can Help After a No-Zone Accident

It is true that there are some steps drivers can take to keep themselves safe and out of a truck’s no-zones. However, truck drivers also have a responsibility to know how to navigate these blind spots safely and can and should be held 100% responsible for failing to do so. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident attorney can help determine if the truck driver was negligent so you can file a claim and obtain fair compensation. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.

Source:

fmcsa.dot.gov/ourroads/large-blind-spots