Bigger vehicles naturally have bigger blind spots that are invisible to their operators. The main risk associated with a semi-truck’s blind spots is obviously the possibility of the driver failing to notice another vehicle near them in traffic.
The trailer on a semi-truck inhibits a driver’s ability to see around the vehicle. If truck drivers fail to intentionally check their blind spots, they could potentially cause crashes with other vehicles that have devastating consequences. They might turn directly in front of an approaching vehicle, resulting in an underride collision. They could also theoretically merge into another lane of traffic and cut off a smaller vehicle in the process.
Those risks make giving a semi-truck plenty of space on the road a smart move. However, drivers may also need to adjust their habits to account for truck blind spots that could affect their ability to notice approaching vehicles in traffic.
Passing a semi-truck can be risky
Generally speaking, semi-trucks move a bit slower than other vehicles. They are subject to stricter regulations and often need to stay in the right lane on multi-lane roads. On a two-lane state highway, traveling behind a semi-truck can quickly become frustrating.
Drivers may hope to get around them as quickly as possible. Attempting to pass a semi-truck seems reasonable at first, but it can be a very dangerous decision. Drivers typically cannot see all the way around a semi-truck.
They might merge into the left lane to pass the semi-truck, only to realize as they get close to the cab of the vehicle that there is another vehicle approaching them. At that point, they may not be able to maneuver effectively to avoid a collision.
Although it can be frustrating to stay behind a semi-truck for miles, the alternative might be causing a wrong-way crash due to visibility issues. Drivers operating passenger vehicles typically need to monitor oncoming traffic carefully before they attempt to pass a semi-truck on a two-lane road.
Those involved in collisions caused by semi-trucks or by their presence in traffic may need help pursuing compensation afterward. Evaluating crash circumstances, liability rules and insurance coverage can help people choose the best path forward after a crash involving or caused by a commercial vehicle.
