Alabama’s roads are constantly busy with freight traffic. That’s because the state is home to over 32,000 registered trucking companies. Millions of 18-wheelers travel its highways daily, making the trucking industry a vital part of the state’s economy.

But for drivers in smaller vehicles, sharing the road with these massive rigs can feel intimidating, especially when you know the size of their blind spots.

Each corner of a semi-truck has a No Zone, an area where the truck driver can’t see you. Knowing where these blind spots are and how to avoid them is crucial to staying safe.

If you’re ever injured because a truck driver failed to check those blind spots, a skilled North Alabama truck accident lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Where Are the Blind Spots on a Large Truck?

A blind spot, also called a No Zone, is an area around a vehicle that the driver cannot see without turning their head or using a mirror. While all vehicles have blind spots, an 18-wheeler’s No Zones when pulling a trailer are large enough to conceal whole cars.

If you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirror, they can’t see you either. That means you’re in a danger zone and should move out of it quickly.

In total, trucks have four major blind spots:

  • In Front of the Hood: This blind spot stretches up to 20 feet directly ahead of a truck’s hood. Never cut in close; give the truck driver space to stop safely.
  • Driver Side (Left): Avoid cruising next to a truck from its cab to its mid-trailer area.
  • Passenger Side (Right): This blind spot spans three lanes and is the most dangerous zone. Avoid passing on the right whenever possible.
  • Directly Behind the Trailer: The driver can’t see you here. You’re too close to the back of the trailer if you can’t see the truck’s mirrors.

Tips to Drive Safely Around Large Trucks

Driving near large trucks requires extra awareness and care. To avoid danger, stay mindful of their size, blind spots, and movements.

Use these tips to stay safe around 18-wheelers:

  • Keep Yourself Visible: If the driver can’t see you, you’re probably in a blind spot. Always position your vehicle so the truck driver can see you.
  • Don’t Follow Too Closely: Never tailgate a truck with a trailer. You should be able to see both of its side mirrors and enough of the road ahead to spot obstacles. In rain or snow, give even more space because trucks take longer to stop in bad weather, and tailgating increases your risk of a rear-end collision.
  • Pass Trucks Quickly: If you can safely pass an 18-wheeler, do it quickly and efficiently to avoid the blind spots; don’t cruise alongside the trailer.
  • Anticipate the Driver’s Movements: Because of their length, large trucks need extra room to turn, especially to the right. At intersections, they may swing left before completing a right turn. Watch for brake lights, turn signals, and lane changes, and always keep a safe distance to avoid getting caught in their path.

Dangers of Remaining Inside a Truck’s Blind Spots

Trucks are large and heavy vehicles. The typical 18-wheeler with a trailer weighs up to 80,000 lbs. Due to their weight, the impact force of a truck crash can cause more severe and debilitating injuries than other types of traffic accidents.

Staying in a truck’s blind spot makes it more likely that the driver will accidentally sideswipe or crash into your vehicle, leading to serious injuries such as:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Internal organ damage
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Burns, cuts, and scrapes

Get Representation From Skilled Truck Accident Lawyers

Truck accidents are complex and often involve numerous parties: drivers, trucking companies, cargo owners, and even vehicle manufacturers. Determining which party is at fault and who to seek compensation from can be challenging without legal help.

At Tyler Mann Injury Law, our North Alabama truck accident lawyers have the experience, resources, and skills to handle your case. Our firm has a long history of successful outcomes representing accident victims in Alabama.

Let us handle insurance providers and trucking companies while you focus on recovery. Schedule a free consultation with us today. We’re available 24/7.