Blind Spots Can Blind Side Motorists
Blind spots for drivers are always there on the road and must be checked in order to prevent harm to the public. When drivers do not take blind spots into consideration, tragedy can occur leaving children, pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and motorcyclists seriously injured or killed.
Blind spots can come in different forms. Objects such as large trees, bus stops, signs and other stationary objects as you approach an intersection can create blind spots for drivers. The blind spot created by a stationary object actually shifts as the motorist continues down the road and creates a dangerous condition that drivers must be aware of and must always check in order to be safe-especially at intersections and cross walks.
Another type of blind spot that drivers must always check is the rolling blind spot. This type of blind spot occurs when there is moving traffic. For example, a rolling blind spot occurs where a driver is making a left turn when there is oncoming traffic. The driver might think that she can clear the intersection before the inside vehicle approaches the intersection, however, if the driver does not check the blind spot that is created by the oncoming outside lane of traffic, the likelihood of a serious collision is extremely high. The driver must never make a decision unless they are certain that their blind spots are clear.
Many drivers may remember the familiar “No Zones” jingle from driver education, warning about the dangers of commercial trucks’ blind spots. These zones also apply to passenger vehicles, where failing to check blind spots can cause accidents with other motorists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 18 percent of all collisions are “sideswipe” collisions, meaning that one vehicle crashed into another vehicle while attempting to change lanes. These collisions could be avoided if drivers double-checked their blind spots before making a move.
In addition to sideswipe collisions, blind spots can be to blame for back-over accidents. Back-over accidents occur when a vehicle backs over someone, usually a child, due to the rear blind spot on most vehicles. Rear blind spots are directly behind a vehicle and are typically 17 feet wide for a sedan and 23 feet wide for a sport utility vehicle.
Motorcyclists, Cyclists and Pedestrians Especially At Risk
Unfortunately, motorcyclists, bicycle riders, and pedestrians are often victims of a driver who does not clear his or her blind spots before taking action. Bikes, motorcycles and pedestrians are slimmer than other cars and are more difficult for drivers to spot. Because pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycles are more difficult to spot, drivers must take the time to insure that they are safely entering an area they are moving into. This is especially critical in school zones, near churches, in highly populated areas, and in cities like Austin where so many people commute on bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles. There is no substitute for safety, especially when it comes to being an alert driver and not taking chances that will later be regretted.
Blind Spot Tips for Drivers
Fortunately, there are several things a driver can do to reduce the chance he or she will injure someone who is in his or her blind spot. First, drivers should take the time to adjust their mirrors correctly. Adjust the rearview mirror first, then line up your side mirrors so they continue the panorama of the reflection in the rearview mirror. If a driver’s car is reflected in the mirror, that driver may not be able to see into adjacent lanes.
Know what your vehicle’s blind spots are. Even when mirrors are properly adjusted, drivers cannot rely on them alone to check blind spots. Drivers must always visually check their blind spots before changing lanes or making a turn.
Also know if you are in another car’s blind spot. Generally, if a driver can see the mirrors of the other car, it is safe to assume that driver is not that vehicle’s blind spot.
Though blind spots are a common cause of motor vehicle accidents, these types of accidents can be avoided if a few simple steps are always followed. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a blind spot accident, please consult an experienced personal injury attorney.