What Is a Truck’s No-Zone?
Posted in Truck accidents on November 18, 2020
Truck accidents can be very dangerous, resulting in thousands of serious injuries and fatalities each year. Many of these accidents occur due to negligent truck driving, such as driving too many hours without a break or failing to properly maintain the large vehicle. However, other accidents occur due to a common design error present in nearly every commercial truck: the no-zone.
Where Is a Truck’s No-Zone?
Due to their sheer size and weight, there are very large areas around a commercial truck where the driver has zero visibility. When a passenger vehicle is driving in a truck’s no-zone, the truck driver cannot see him or her at all. It is important to be aware of where these no-zones are located so you can avoid driving in a dangerous location.
Blind spot placement varies slightly based on the model and the number of side mirrors on the truck. However, most no-zones are in the following locations.
- Directly in front of the truck for approximately 20 feet
- Directly behind the vehicle for approximately 200 feet
- Directly along both sides of the vehicle, especially the right side
The right side of a commercial truck is one of the most dangerous locations for motorists. This no-zone is significantly larger than the left side no-zone, often spanning across two lanes.
What Accidents Can Occur in a No-Zone?
Entering a truck’s no-zone can lead to devastating consequences. Since the driver cannot see you, he or she can easily crash into your vehicle and cause serious injuries due to the sheer size and weight of the truck. These accidents can occur in several ways.
- If you are within 20 feet of the front of the truck, the driver will not know that you are in front of him or her. The driver can rear-end your vehicle, which can be devastating.
- If you are within 200 feet of the rear of the truck, the driver may stop suddenly, and you can rear-end his or her vehicle. In these situations, you may become trapped in the truck’s undercarriage.
- If you drift into the side blind spots, the driver will not see that you are in the opposite lane. He or she can make a lane change and crash into your vehicle.
How to Avoid the No-Zone
If you are driving behind a commercial truck, it is important to be aware of the no-zone and avoid driving in these areas as often as possible. A simple rule is that if you cannot see the truck driver in his or her rearview mirror, the driver cannot see you either. The following tips can help you avoid the no-zone.
- Practice patience when driving around commercial trucks. Do not attempt to pass a truck until there is a safe path to do so.
- Do not linger beside, behind, or directly in front of a truck. Never follow a truck too closely.
- Keep an eye on the truck’s turn signals and brake lights to prepare for changes.
- Avoid driving along the sides of a truck.
Although these tips may help you stay safe, accidents can still happen. If you suffer injuries in a collision with a commercial vehicle, you may be able to seek compensation for your damages. After receiving medical attention, speak to a Kansas City truck accident attorney to discuss your legal options.