Guard Your Blind Spots
Driving a commercial vehicle is a tremendous responsibility and a task that requires constant attention to what is going on around your vehicle. Yet, the view from a commercial vehicle is much different from that of an automobile. Due to the vehicle’s size and shape, you cannot see well lower in front, to the sides or rear. In fact, there are large blind spots around commercial vehicles where passenger cars virtually “disappear” from your view. Motorists who are unfamiliar with commercial driving are often not aware of these “no-zones,” where crashes are more likely to occur.
To make matters worse, many people incorrectly assume that you can see the traffic picture better because you sit higher off the ground than the driver of a passenger car. All too often, drivers of automobiles don’t understand the physical limitations such as the maneuverability, stopping distance and turning radius of commercial vehicles, and treat them as they would any other car on the road.
Check Your Blind Spots
As a professional driver, you must be aware of your vehicle’s blind spots and remain vigilant in watching for vehicles in your no-zones.
Be sure your mirrors are adjusted properly. Use them often – at least every five to eight seconds – as they are a major aid in checking changing traffic conditions around your vehicle, and may help you identify whether a vehicle has moved into your blind spot.
When changing lanes, be sure to give good, clear and early signals. Check the road ahead, to the side and behind you carefully for a space in traffic where you can enter the lane safely. Use your mirrors and be sure no one is in your blind spots. Move your eyes, and if necessary, reposition your body and head to get a better view. Once all clear, make your move promptly into the new lane. Traffic is fluid and a lane that was clear just a second ago may quickly become occupied.
When turning right, don’t turn wide to the left as you start your turn. In addition to blocking another lane of traffic, drivers to your rear may assume that you are turning left and try to “squeeze” between you and the curb on the right. Pay particular attention to the right mirror for any vehicles attempting to pass that may be hidden in your blind spot.
Sharing The Road
It is important to keep in mind that virtually all vehicles have blind spots, so it is always a good idea to adjust your position relative to surrounding traffic to stay out of other drivers’ blind spots whenever possible. Keeping your distance, maintaining a safe speed and staying alert will help you recognize potential hazards well in advance and allow you to safely maneuver past these situations.