The location of a truck’s blind spots depends on its make and model. A semi-truck will have different points of obstructed view than a hazmat tanker, or garbage truck, for example. In general, though, large truck blind spots or “no zones” consist of:
- The two to three car-lengths directly in front of the truck cab.
- The two lanes immediately to the right of the cab and trailer.
- The left side of the truck from the cab to about halfway down the trailer.
- A car length or two directly behind the truck.
What causes blind spot truck accidents?
Truckers have a responsibility to ensure their blind spots are clear before attempting a maneuver. When they fail to check these spots properly or there is a system or equipment failure that causes this type of crash, the fault is typically on the trucker’s side. Common factors that cause blind spot truck accidents include:
- Negligence in checking blind spots while changing lanes, merging, or turning.
- Distracted driving, or texting while driving.
- Poor vehicle maintenance and/or mirror adjustment.
- Inadequate training.
- Vehicle malfunction, tire blowouts.
- Impaired driving, including fatigue or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI/DWI).