Driving in New York is complex enough without having to add extra dangers. One of the worst things that you can do is drive too near a commercial truck. You are immediately exposed to the risk of getting into their blind spot. This is the area where you are directly or nearly directly alongside then. If they turn suddenly, they won’t see you.
Blind spot accidents can often be fatal
Motor vehicle accidents involving commercial trucks are all too often fatal. This is because of the massive weight difference between a car and a big 18-wheeler. If you rear end a truck or get sideswiped, you can be flung like a frisbee or crushed. This is why you should never approach too near a truck, especially if it is turning.
A commercial truck is set much higher off the ground than the average car or SUV. The truck’s mirrors are adjusted to help them see in front and back. However, they can’t see you when you drive directly alongside them. The driver’s eyes are focused in front of them. This means they can make a sudden turn without realizing you are there.
The extent of the blind spot that a truck driver suffers from may vary. It will depend on the height of the driver as well as the type of vehicle they are driving. As a result, one driver may have a blind spot much wider than the truck driving behind them. It will be up to you to exercise due caution to compensate.
How to prevent a blind spot accident
Truck accidents can be prevented by following basic safety measures. Always keep to a safe speed and never drive directly alongside a large commercial truck.
Make sure that your mirrors are in the best possible condition. Monitor them regularly to be sure that you see everything around you. This will help you to judge where a truck driver’s blind spot may be. Once you know where it is, you can safely avoid it.
