Semi Truck Blind Spots When Driving
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Blind spots are unnerving in any vehicle. Around a tractor-trailer they are larger, and the truck’s weight makes a mistake more serious. If you are unused to sharing the road with eighteen-wheelers, it is easy to linger where the driver cannot see you.
If you or a loved one was injured in a crash with a semi, a truck accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation. Here is what to know about truck “no-zones.”
Do You Have a Case?WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT SEMI TRUCK ACCIDENTS
Freight is not going away. NHTSA reported 5,340 people killed in crashes involving large trucks in 2024, a small drop from 2023. About 70% of those deaths were occupants of other vehicles, not the truck. Early 2025 estimates show fewer large-truck-involved deaths, but the numbers are still preliminary.
A high cab does not mean a better view of cars. The hood hides pavement immediately in front. Mirrors leave large gaps along the trailer, especially on the right.
NO-ZONES
FMCSA and safety groups call truck blind spots no-zones. There are four:
- Right side: The longest gap. It runs along the trailer and into the next lane (sometimes more on a long trailer or in a curve). Pass on the left when you can.
- Left side: Shorter, but still real. If you cannot see the driver’s face in the left mirror, assume they cannot see you.
- Rear: Do not sit on the bumper. Leave several seconds of following distance—more in rain, snow or at night. You cannot complete a safe pass from a few feet back.
- Front: Do not cut in until you can see the whole front of the truck (both headlights) in your rear-view mirror.
TIPS TO SAFELY PASS A SEMI TRUCK
Pass only with a long, clear stretch of road. Signal early going out and coming back. Leave enough space that you are not braking in front of the truck.
A loaded tractor-trailer needs much more stopping distance than a car at the same speed. Tailgating a truck, or slamming on the brakes in front of one, is how rear-end and underride crashes happen.
SEMI TRUCK ACCIDENT? GIVE AN EXPERIENCED LAWYER A CALL TODAY
If you or a loved one is injured in a Michigan truck or car accident, we can help. Our lawyers have the skills and resources to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Michigan crash law is complicated, but finding the right attorney is simple.
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