Watching Out for Truck Blind Spots When Driving

Truck accidents caused by blind spots

Truck blind spots are a serious issue that all drivers should be aware of. Statistics show that many truck accidents occur due to the fact that semi-truck drivers do not see other cars or motorcycles.

Knowing where truck blind spots are

As the name suggests, a blind spot is an area around a truck where other cars remain hidden from view. Semis and big rigs have more blind spots than regular vehicles. This is due to their size, which is far larger than most vehicles.

A video on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website shows exactly where truck blind spots are. You’ll notice that the most prominent blind spot exists on the truck’s right side. Passenger cars should never pass a truck on the right side for this exact reason. A blind spot also exists on the left side of a big truck, but it is not as large. Additional blind areas are in the front and back of the truck. These areas extend for approximately 20 feet.

Because the hazard involved with these bind spots is so dangerous, the FMSCA urges truckers to check their mirrors every 8-10 seconds.

Tremendous impacts involved with truck accidents

Truck accidents are typically devastating due to the tonnage of the truck and the momentum derived from the vehicle’s speed. When fully loaded, trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. When you take that much dense mass, moving at high velocity, and it collides with a car that weighs between 2,000 to 5,000 pounds, the chances of survival are slim for car passengers.

Do You Need Legal Help with a Truck Accident?

If you are seriously injured or have lost a loved one in a truck accident, it is time to seek legal help. Based on New York Insurance law, if you meet the serious injury threshold, you can recover fair compensation for damages. To arrange a free consultation, contact Fazzinilaw.com. Call us at 631-547-8989.