Truck blind spots are a leading cause of serious traffic accidents. Understanding what truck blind spots are, how to identify them, and how to overcome them will help drivers and road users prevent accidents effectively. This article from Xe Tải Mỹ Đình will provide you with the necessary information about truck blind spots.
Truck blind spot zones from different perspectives
Truck blind spot zones from different perspectives
What are Truck Blind Spots? Why are They Dangerous?
Truck blind spots are areas around the vehicle that the driver cannot see, either directly or through mirrors. The larger the vehicle, the wider and more dangerous the blind spots.
Blind spots pose a risk of collisions and traffic accidents, especially when trucks change lanes, reverse, turn around, or park. Recognizing and handling situations involving blind spots is an essential skill for both drivers and pedestrians.
Key Truck Blind Spot Locations to Be Aware Of
1. Blind Spot in Front of the Truck
Truck cabins are usually high, obstructing the driver’s view of the area immediately in front of the vehicle.
Note: Do not move too close to the front of the truck, and absolutely do not cut in front, overtake, or drive too close to the front of a truck. Trucks are heavy and have difficulty braking suddenly.
2. Blind Spots on Both Sides of the Truck
These are areas on both sides of the truck that are not reflected in the rearview mirrors.
How to identify: If you can see the truck driver in their rearview mirror, it means they can also see you. Conversely, you are in their blind spot.
Note: Do not drive parallel to or closely alongside the truck.
Danger of driving alongside: A car is in the side blind spot of a truck
Danger of driving alongside: A car is in the side blind spot of a truck
3. Blind Spot Behind the Truck
This is the area out of sight behind the truck’s rear or cargo bed, which can extend up to 60 meters. The driver cannot see people or objects in this area at all.
Note: Maintain a safe distance from trucks, especially when they are reversing, braking suddenly, or parking.
4. Other Blind Spots
In addition to the 3 main blind spots, there are also smaller blind spots caused by windshield pillars, below the rearview mirrors, on the roof, and under the undercarriage.
How to Overcome Truck Blind Spots While Driving
Adjusting Rearview Mirrors Correctly
Adjust the mirrors so that you can clearly see the side of the truck at the outermost edge of the mirror, minimizing blind spots on both sides.
Adjusting Driver’s Seat and Seating Position
Ensure your eye level is higher than the steering wheel and directly above the middle of the windshield. Maintain a comfortable seating position that allows for easy observation of the rearview mirrors.
Installing Multi-Directional Mirrors
Install a multi-directional rearview mirror system, convex mirrors, and front mirrors to expand visibility.
Mirror system on Daewoo CL4DF truck optimizes visibility and reduces blind spots
Mirror system on Daewoo CL4DF truck optimizes visibility and reduces blind spots
Conclusion
Understanding what truck blind spots are and how to overcome them is crucial for ensuring road safety. In addition to drivers actively minimizing blind spots, road users also need to raise awareness and avoid moving into dangerous areas around trucks. Always maintain a safe distance and observe carefully to prevent accidents.
