Where Are the Blind Spots of a Large Truck?
3 Answers
Large trucks have blind spots primarily due to two reasons. First, their massive size, and second, unlike passenger cars, the front and rear wheels of large trucks do not follow the same path. This is a major factor contributing to blind spots, perhaps even the most significant one. Large trucks have numerous blind spots, specifically in the following areas: 1. Front Blind Spot: Typically, an area about 2 meters long and 1.5 meters wide from the front of the truck to behind the cab is a blind zone. 2. Right-side Blind Spot: The right-side blind spot is arguably the most dangerous among all blind spots of a large truck. 3. Left-side Blind Spot: The left-side blind spot is mainly near the rear of the truck. Additionally, the side front near the A-pillar is also a blind spot. 4. Rear Blind Spot: As expected, the entire rear area is a blind spot for large trucks.
Having worked in the safety field for many years, I understand that large trucks have several key blind spots. The area directly in front of the truck, close to the ground, is completely invisible to the driver, making it the most dangerous for short pedestrians or small vehicles. The entire right side, from below the driver's window to the rear wheels, poses a significant blind spot where cyclists or pedestrians can easily be overlooked, especially during turns. The rear trailer section relies on mirrors, but visibility is limited, often leading to accidents during reversing or parking. The left-side blind spot is relatively smaller but still requires attention, particularly at high speeds when it's easy to miss. I recommend maintaining a safe distance of at least three meters, avoiding driving parallel too close to large trucks, and installing blind-spot cameras to reduce risks. Being mindful of these points on the road can prevent many traffic accidents.
As a driver who frequently operates small cars, I often yield to large trucks on the road and am well aware of their deadly blind spots. The entire right side of the truck is a high-risk area—the driver sits high on the left and cannot see the door zone, making cyclists or pedestrians vulnerable if they get too close. Below the front windshield, small objects or children are completely invisible to the driver. The rear trailer is even scarier, as it's entirely a blind spot—I once nearly rear-ended a truck by following too closely. Blind spots also exist on the left side during reversing. That's why I always remind myself to stay clear of these zones, double-check when changing lanes, and ensure safety. Cyclists should be especially vigilant—never linger in blind spots and slow down early to avoid them.
