Improve Roadway Safety by Avoiding the “No-Zone”
No one expects to be involved in a collision with a large truck, and often these come with serious and costly injuries that take extensive treatment to recover from. With so many of the incidents being a result of improper roadway etiquette, drivers should understand the importance of avoiding a truck’s blind spot. Here are three things you should know.
#1. Large Trucks Have Blind Spots on All Sides
If driving near a large truck or other commercial vehicle, it's crucial to know that each side has a blind spot, and this makes up what is known as the "no zone." According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the no-zone includes:
- One lane width on the left.
- Two lane widths on the right.
- 20 feet in front of the truck.
- 30 feet behind the truck.
One of the easiest ways to know if you are driving in these areas is to look for the driver in the rear-view mirror. If you cannot see the driver, you are in a blind spot and cannot be seen by them.
#2. Motorcycle Riders May Be More Difficult to See
Motorcycle riders may need to be more cautious than average when traveling near a large truck. Because motorcycles are smaller, have one headlight, and require more diligence when operating, lingering in a truck's blind spot or speeding up to pass them while changing lanes could have dangerous consequences.
#3. Crash Risk Increases the Longer You’re in the Blind Spot
The FMCSA estimates that nearly one-third of truck accidents result from a passenger car lingering in a truck's blind spot. Because of this, you must be mindful when traveling in the no-zone.
Drivers of passenger cars or other light vehicles should be cautious and only drive within a truck's blind spot if looking to pass them. Another important thing to remember is that you should only pass on the left side of a truck, as this allows for more visibility to the driver.
Truck Accident? Call Our Dream Team
Jamie Casino Injury Attorneys is the Savannah-based firm you need after a truck accident leaves you seriously injured. Our experienced and skilled dream team can help you get back on your feet and recover the compensation you deserve. Give us a call at (912) 809-5335—we are available 24/7 to help when you need it most.