Beware of the Truck Blindspot! Things You Need to Know About Where the Blindspot Is on a Truck

Have you ever felt uneasy while driving near large trucks or lorries? If so, you’re not alone. One of the key reasons for this unease is something called the “blindspot” on lorries. In this article, we’ll discuss what the lorry blindspot actually is and why it’s crucial to understand it.

What Is a Blindspot?

A blindspot is an area around a vehicle that the driver cannot see through mirrors or the front windshield. It’s a particularly hazardous area because the driver cannot see other vehicles or pedestrians within this blindspot. For trucks, especially large ones, the blindspot can be quite significant.

Types of Truck Blindspots

1. Side Blindspot: The side blindspot on lorries encompasses the areas to the right and left of the lorry that cannot be seen through side mirrors. This blindspot can lead to lorry drivers being unable to see smaller vehicles or motorcycles beside them. To avoid getting caught in this blindspot, make sure you’re not driving alongside a lorry if you’re not visible in their side mirrors.
2. Rear Blindspot: The rear blindspot is the area behind the lorry that cannot be seen through the rearview mirror or side mirrors. This is one of the most dangerous blindspots because lorries often make reverse maneuvers. Never stay directly behind a lorry at a very close distance.
3. Front Blindspot : The front blindspot is also an area that the driver cannot see if he is right in front of the truck mirror. This is because the lorry seat is high, so the lorry does not see and does not know what is in front of the lorry, especially when stopping at an intersection or a traffic light. See the video example below if you are in front of the truck.

Why You Should Care?

Knowing about the lorry blindspot is essential for your safety on the road. When you’re driving near lorries, always consider the blindspot and strive to remain within the driver’s field of vision. If you’re too close or in the blindspot, the lorry driver may not see you, leading to potentially serious accidents.

Tips to Avoid Truck Blindspots

• Do not tailgate lorries when on the road.
• Avoid lingering in a lorry’s blindspot or driving very closely alongside it.
• When overtaking a lorry, signal your intentions using your turn signals and ensure you can see the lorry in their mirrors before changing lanes.
• If you’re a lorry driver, always check your blindspots before making any maneuvers.

The lorry blindspot is something you need to be aware of and consider when on the road. Accidents caused by disregard for this blindspot can result in severe damage and even injuries. Therefore, always exercise caution and vigilance when driving near large lorries on the road. Respecting lorry drivers’ blindspots is a crucial first step toward better traffic safety.