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Where are a truck’s blind spots?

On Behalf of | Dec 22, 2020 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Staying safe on the roadway while driving around trucks requires an understanding of the unique blind spots that these large vehicles have. They often differ greatly from a passenger vehicle. 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration explains that due to its increased size, a truck typically has large blind spots on every single side of the vehicle.

The distinct blind spot locations on trucks

Here is an overview of exactly where drivers should expect trucks to be unable to see them:

  • On the right side of the vehicle, a truck’s blind spot will span a couple of lanes. If you are directly beside the truck, chances are that it cannot see you. If you are a couple of lanes over, the driver will be able to see you when you are about 30 feet behind it or at most distances in front of it.
  • On the left side of the vehicle, the truck driver cannot see you if you are beside it. If you cannot see the driver in the side mirror, then they cannot see you either.
  • Directly in front of the truck is a large blind spot where the front end blocks the driver from seeing anything in front of them for about 20 feet.
  • Behind a truck, you should give about 30 feet of space for the driver to be able to see your vehicle in their mirrors.

Tips for driving safely around trucks

As you drive around large trucks, you must keep these blind spots in mind. If you are unsure if a driver can see you, then it may be safer to simply assume they cannot. It is always best to overestimate the space you should give a truck rather than underestimate.

Providing adequate space between your vehicle and others on the road can help you avoid collisions and stay safe.