What Is the No-Zone of a Truck?

Most drivers are familiar with the term “blind spot.” At Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi PLC, we have helped numerous clients injured in accidents related to a blind spot. These no-zones can create a multitude of challenges during an injury claim.

A truck accident lawyer can help evaluate the circumstances of the crash and help establish liability. Commercial truck drivers also have blind spots, but they are referred to as “no-zones.” It does not matter what a commercial truck driver does, they cannot see a vehicle that is located in a “no-zone.”

The Primary No-Zones Associated with Commercial Trucks 

Being cautious and alert are two of the most important qualities any commercial truck driver can possess. All drivers need to be careful when driving near commercial trucks. Staying out of a truck driver’s “no-zones” can help reduce the number of truck accidents in the United States. 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration provides general information on “no-zones.” Commercial truck drivers have less visibility than drivers of small automobiles. The primary “no-zones” associated with commercial truck drivers are as follows: 

• Two lanes to the right side of the truck, beginning at the cab and moving diagonally 
• One lane on the left side of the truck around the cab 
• Twenty feet in front of the truck 
• Thirty feet behind the truck 

Passing a Large Truck

Drivers need to not pass commercial trucks on the right side of the truck. A driver who cannot see a truck driver in their side mirror cannot be seen by the truck driver. All drivers should pass commercial trucks on the left side. Commercial truck drivers have no visibility on the right side of the truck, and therefore drivers should never drive alongside the right side of a commercial truck. 

Also, drivers should not drive alongside the left portion of a commercial truck. When passing a commercial truck, drivers should not linger next to the commercial truck. It is still dangerous to stay to the left of a commercial truck due to the truck driver’s reduced visibility. 

Avoid the Rear of the Truck

Being close to the rear of a commercial truck is also dangerous. Tailgating any automobile is hazardous due to the increased probability of an automobile accident occurring. 

Truck drivers do not have rear-view mirrors, and therefore they depend on side-view mirrors to see if an automobile is behind their truck. It is much safer to never drive near the rear of a commercial truck. 

Remember Stopping Distance

Commercial trucks take longer to stop than smaller vehicles. Drivers should never cut off a commercial truck and then stay in the front “no-zone” of the commercial truck. A truck driver may not be able to slow down quickly enough to avoid a collision. 

Truck accidents can cause catastrophic accidents that result in serious bodily injury and death. Staying out of this “no-zone” can help avoid truck accidents. 

Avoiding “No-Zones” While Driving in Tennessee 

The following are some of the best ways to stay out of a commercial truck’s “no-zones:” 

• Focus on what other drivers around you are doing 
• Be patient and do not drive in an erratic manner 
• Anticipate commercial trucks taking wide turns 
• Always stay more than thirty feet behind a commercial truck 
• Never cut off a commercial truck because the truck driver may not see your automobile 
• Always remain visible to the commercial truck driver 

Following these guidelines can help prevent truck accidents. Commercial truck “no-zone” accidents are often catastrophic. Multiple individuals may suffer serious bodily injury or death during commercial truck “no-zone” accidents. 

Commercial Truck “No-Zone” Accidents Are Dangerous 

Commercial truck “no-zone” accidents may cause extensive property damage, serious bodily injury, and death. Depending on what a commercial truck is carrying, a commercial truck accident could cause an explosion of flammable materials. These accidents can be devastating. 

• Commercial trucks do not have the same spectrum of visibility as other drivers on the road. Most drivers take their visibility for granted, but commercial truck drivers have to be extremely cautious when they make turns and change lanes. 
• Commercial truck drivers also need more time to make complete stops. A truck driver may apply the brakes but be unable to avoid a collision with another vehicle, so drivers in smaller vehicles need to make sure they are not putting themselves or others in danger by getting too close to a commercial truck. 
• Commercial trucks also may be transporting hazardous or flammable materials which may cause extensive property damage if they ignite. It is best to avoid causing a truck accident because it can damage property within the range of hazardous materials. 
• Commercial truck drivers often may feel stressed and tired due to the pressures of professional driving. Without adequate rest, commercial truck drivers may not have fast reaction times, and so commercial truck accidents often occur due to a fatigued driver. 

Also, rollover accidents are more likely to occur due to the top-heavy nature of commercial trucks. Rollover accidents can be extremely dangerous, and fatalities may occur during rollover accidents. 

You May Need to Retain a Truck Accident Lawyer After Suffering Injuries in a Truck Accident 

Retaining a truck accident lawyer is one of the best things you can do after suffering injuries in a truck accident. It can be difficult to determine which trucking company may be liable for your injuries. A skilled truck accident lawyer can help you discover if the truck driver who caused the accident was an employee of the trucking company or an independent contractor. 

The status of the truck driver can affect whether liability will attach to the commercial truck company. Therefore, it is in your best interest to speak to a knowledgeable truck accident attorney who can advise you about your legal rights. 

Truck accidents can be horrifying, but this is no reason to avoid asserting the legal claims you may have against the truck driver and the commercial truck company. Also, collect your medical bills as well as any photographs, videos, and audio recordings you have regarding the truck accident. 

Contact Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi PLC Today to Schedule a Free Consultation 

Reach out to Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi PLC today if you have suffered injuries in a truck accident. Our firm has been established in the Memphis Tri-State Area since 1970. We have decades of experience representing clients in truck accident cases. We understand how difficult it can be to understand where to begin with filing a civil lawsuit. 

Call now to reach our truck accident attorneys in Memphis. We also have an office in Olive Branch, Mississippi. Don’t wait–contact us today!