Truck No-Zones: What Drivers Need to Know To Reduce Truck Accident Risks
Major highways and interstates running through Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana increase the risk of crashes and collisions involving commercial vehicles. One of the most significant hazards is ‘no zones’. These are large blind spots surrounding trucks that cause other motorists to disappear from the driver’s view.
Our Madisonville truck accident lawyer sees firsthand the devastating harm these crashes can cause. Find out what you need to know about truck no-zones and how to protect yourself and your family on the road.
Where Truck No-Zones Are and Why They Are So Dangerous
Interstates 69, 64, 24, and 165 crisscross Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana. Commercial vehicles regularly rely on these and other major roads, which creates hazards for drivers. Getting struck in truck no-zones is one of the biggest risks.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) states that tankers, 18-wheelers, and other trucks have large blind spots surrounding their rigs, which make it difficult for truck drivers to see cars nearby. Truck no-zones include:
- Right-side blind spot. This is the largest and most dangerous blind area, stretching out the length of the truck and across several lanes.
- Left-side blind spot. Although smaller than the right side, this area still allows plenty of room for a car to disappear from the trucker’s view.
- Front no-zone. If a driver cuts in too closely, the driver may not see them or be able to brake in time.
- Rear no-zone. Tailgating, or following too closely, causes drivers to disappear from the trucker’s view.
Driving in truck no-zones can lead to sideswipe collisions, wide-turn crashes, and other devastating truck accidents, and can result in life-threatening injuries.
How to Reduce the Risk of a No-Zone Truck Accident
The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that truck accidents pose major risks throughout the U.S. In Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana alone, nearly 500 commercial vehicle crashes occur yearly. Driving in truck no-zones is a common cause. To protect your safety on the road, follow these tips:
- Avoid lingering directly in front of, behind, or beside a truck. Pass safely and move ahead.
- Give trucks plenty of room to turn, especially at intersections where they may swing wide.
- Use your signals early when merging or changing lanes.
- Keep in mind that if you can’t see the truck driver, they likely can’t see you.
Despite these precautions, negligence on the part of the trucker or trucking company can still put you at risk. If you or someone you love is involved in a crash, get professional legal help right away.
Contact Our Experienced Madisonville Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents are common on major highways and interstates, and can cause devastating injuries to victims. As seasoned trial lawyers, Whitfield Crosby & Flynn provides the professional legal representation you need to hold those at fault accountable.
To get a sense of justice and the compensation needed to cover your losses, call or contact us online and request a consultation. We proudly serve clients in Madisonville, Kentucky, Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Indianapolis, Indiana.
Sources:
fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/docs/ourroads/80251/driving-safely-around-cmvs.pdf
injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/large-trucks/data-details/
