Driving a truck is a demanding task. It requires your full attention on all sides of the road, including the nearby vehicles. Since a truck is much larger than an ordinary car, it is also comparatively more difficult to maneuver. And a collision with such a heavyweight vehicle can have a more devastating impact.
Generally, most truck accidents occur in the vehicle’s blind spots as they are practically invisible areas. Some useful techniques can help you maneuver efficiently in these spots without colliding with another vehicle. But the best solution is using a blind spot monitoring system.
This guide will further explain why you should equip your trucks with blind spot detection. Without any further ado, let’s get started!
Where are the Blind Spots On a Truck, and Why Are They Dangerous?
A frequently asked question is, do trucks have blind spots? The answer is yes! Trucks do have blind spots, and they are much more dangerous than that of a car. In fact, all four sides of a truck can be blind spots in different scenarios.
So, where are the blind spots on a truck? Here’s the answer:
1. The Left Side (Driver’s Side)
The truck driver’s side is one of the most dangerous blind spots for several reasons. That is because the left-side mirror does not offer a very clear view. If a small vehicle enters the same lane and gets too close to a large container truck, it becomes practically invisible. The truck driver will struggle to see this vehicle clearly, as a result, a collision occurs.
Any vehicle not within a safe distance of the truck can easily collide in this blind spot. It is highly advised for truck drivers to always maintain distance from other vehicles in the left blind spot.
2. The Right Side (Passenger’s Side)
The passenger’s side is the most notorious blind spot for accidents. It is also known as the “danger zone” or “no zone” for good reasons. The mirror on the right side is quite far from the driver’s seat, obstructing the view. And if a vehicle is in close proximity, it becomes invisible to the driver.
How to avoid accidents in this blind spot? The safest bet is to keep your truck at least two lanes away from other vehicles. This way, you can avoid collisions and get a decent view from the side mirror.
3. The Direct Rear
Any vehicle driving behind your truck will not appear in your side mirror. That is unless the vehicle is larger than your truck. In that case, you can see some parts in the side mirrors. However, if it is a smaller car, the rearview mirrors are practically useless for these blind spots.
Generally, accidents in the rear blind spot occur when the truck is reversing. Other drivers should not keep their vehicles directly behind the truck. And as a truck driver, you are responsible for always double-checking before reversing, especially if carrying a trailer or container.
4. The Direct Front
You might be wondering, how is any vehicle in front of a truck not visible? This case is almost similar to the direct rear blind spot. If a smaller vehicle gets too close to your truck’s front, it disappears due to its large size.
This blind spot gets quite dangerous if a vehicle changes lanes and gets in front of you without notifying you. To avoid collisions, keep your truck at least 20 feet away from vehicles ahead of you. This way, you can get a clear view of the cars driving in front of your bumper. If you suspect a vehicle is close to the front, try slowing down your truck to let them get ahead.
How To Handle Truck Blind Spots Efficiently?
Truck blind spots can be quite dangerous if not handled properly. Thousands of accidents occur in these areas on the road. However, some simple tips can help you avoid casualties and drive safely. Although the following practices are helpful, you should consider equipping your trucks with blind spot detection.
That said, here’s how to handle truck blind spots:
1. Avoid Speeding Or Slowing Down Too Much
Most accidents in the front and rear blind spots happen due to a truck’s unusual speed. If it is driving too fast, the vehicles ahead will be hit by it. Similarly, the cars behind the truck will collide with it if it slows down suddenly. It is highly recommended to follow the speed range on a highway. This simple tip can avoid accidents in the rear and front blind spots of your truck.
2. Make The Most Out Of Your Mirrors
Side mirrors are not very effective in blind spots, but you can make them more useful. The key is to position them well to give you the maximum view of your blind spots. This tip goes for both left and right-side mirrors, as they can help you avoid collisions in the driver and passenger’s blind areas.
Secondly, it is important to know that side mirrors are vulnerable to weather effects. If it rains or snows, your mirrors will not offer the best view. Similarly, mud or dirt can also block the side-view mirrors. After every drive, make sure to clean them with a soft cloth.
3. Never Trust Your Instinct
On the road, making an impulsive decision can lead to fatal accidents. A truck driver should always consider the magnitude of their vehicle before turning or changing lanes. That is why it is highly recommended to double-check the road before making a decision.
While at it, inform others of your next move so they can give you the required space. This tip is even more important when parking or reversing your truck. These simple safety practices can save you from casualties.
4. Equip Your Trucks With Blind Spot Detection
Trucks with blind spot detection is 10 times safer than an ordinary one. Why is that? Well, it is an assistive driving system designed specifically to minimize the chances of accidents. It uses radar sensors to keep truck drivers notified of vehicles approaching in blind spots.
While other tips and techniques are useful, semi trucks with blind spot detection is the ultimate solution. It monitors the road throughout travel and alerts you via sound or light. This way, the truck driver can always make the right decision on the road.
Why Is It Useful To Equip Your Trucks With Blind Spot Detection?
You might have seen cars with blind spot detection, but this system can also be installed on commercial trucks. Trucks with blind spot detection are the upgraded version of a regular trucks. It is safer to drive and makes you a confident driver. Let’s look at some reasons why you should upgrade your trucks with blind spot detection!
1. Monitor Your Blind Spots
Side-view mirrors can help you navigate through your blind spots to some extent. No matter how well you position them, they are still inefficient in some areas. That is where a blind spot detection system has the upper hand. It consistently monitors the blind spots of a truck and detects if a vehicle approaches.
The radar-based sensors are responsible for monitoring the blind spots. Another benefit is that they remain unaffected regardless of the weather conditions. As a result, you will not face any difficulty regarding your truck’s blind spots.
2. Accurate Information
Are you worried about your side-view mirrors’ inaccurate results? Sometimes, their view can be obstructed, causing panic to the truck driver. However, you can drive stress-free by equipping your trucks with blind spot detection.
This assistive driving system offers 100% accurate results by detecting any nearby vehicles. Its sensors emit radar waves that sense approaching cars and alert the truck driver. You don’t have to worry about collisions with such a precise watchful eye on the road.
3. Convenient To Use
Trucks with blind spot detection make driving much easier. Since a truck is a larger and heavier vehicle, the driver usually remains nervous. With a blind spot detection system, you can get alerts of oncoming vehicles. This way, you can even keep track of the areas invisible to the side-view mirrors.
The alert system of trucks with blind spot detection is also easy to use. Some issue flashing lights, while others produce an audible warning. This factor can vary from model to model.
4. Become A Pro Driver
If you are a new driver, upgrading your trucks with blind spot detection can help you improve your skills. This assistive system enables you to maneuver through your blind spots with ease. With enough experience with these sensors, you will master the art of truck driving.
Conclusion
Trucks with blind spot detection have many benefits. But most importantly, it keeps you safe on the road and makes you a skillful driver. This assistive system will empower you to make the right decisions at the right time. This way, you would not endanger your or other vehicles on highways.
However, it is important to know that the blind spot detection system is not a replacement for the safety practices of driving. Both of them should go hand-in-hand to achieve the best results. Even after equipping your trucks with blind spot detection, never make a turn or change lanes without double-checking the road.
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