Don't Hang Out In The "No-Zone"
Buses, 18-wheelers and RV’s are notorious for having blind spots. In addition to not being able to see behind their vehicle, drivers also have difficulty seeing directly in front of them, and to either side starting at the end of the cab and running about 20 to 40 feet back. These blind spots are known as “No Zones,” and are the danger areas where accidents are most likely to occur.
Sharing the road with these types of large commercial vehicles can be dangerous to drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians alike. But with the proper education and advised caution, all of the aforementioned parties can travel safely and simultaneously, and arrive at their destination and out of harm’s way.
A common rule of thumb when driving alongside a tractor trailer is that if you can’t see the driver’s face in the side mirror, they can’t see you. And while a truck driver must be responsible for his or her surroundings, it’s imperative that other drivers be alert and aware of the intricacies and idiosyncrasies of large commercial vehicles.
For example, when making a right hand turn, truck and bus drivers often swing their vehicle wide to the left. Drivers should never try to sneak past the truck on the curb side of the road, as the results can be fatal. Also, it is important to remember to stop at the white line when at a stop sign or stop light, as these road marks are designed to give large vehicles room enough to safely maneuver a turn without running into the waiting traffic.
Although there are many dangers that come associated with driving a large commercial vehicle, one advantage that truck and bus drivers have over the average car or SUV is that they can often oversee the flow of traffic. And because these drivers know the limitations of their vehicle, including the necessary braking distance at any given speed, they can be great indicators of traffic jams or upcoming work areas. By paying close attention to the brake lights of a bus or 18-wheeler, a driver can help minimize the risk of an accident. It is also important to never cut in front of a truck, as they take nearly twice as long to brake than the average car, and often lead to accidents involving multiple vehicles.
Each year there are an estimated 250,000 accidents between automobiles and tractor trailers in the U.S., and at The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein we see firsthand how tragic the results can be. If you’ve been injured in an accident with a tractor trailer, call us today. We will protect your rights and get you the justice you deserve. And by taking the time to learn about “No Zones,” and carrying that wisdom to the highways and byways, we can all stay safe and arrive alive.
For more information about “No Zones” and how to properly share the road with all vehicles, including tractor trailers, buses and RV’s, please visit: www.nozone.org.
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