Sharing the road with large commercial trucks and semi-trucks comes with unique dangers. One of the biggest risks is driving in a truck’s No-Zone—the blind spots where the truck driver cannot see other vehicles. Knowing what a No-Zone is and how to avoid it can greatly reduce your chances of being involved in a serious accident.
At Hillstone Law, our California truck accident attorneys have seen how devastating these crashes can be. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
What Is a No-Zone?
A No-Zone is the blind spot around a commercial truck or semi-truck where the driver has little or no visibility. These areas make it difficult for truck drivers to see surrounding vehicles, creating a high risk of collisions.
There are four primary No-Zones to be aware of:
- Front No-Zone: Extends about 20 feet in front of the truck. Cutting in too closely is dangerous since trucks take longer to stop, increasing the risk of a rear-end crash.
- Rear No-Zone: Stretches roughly 30 feet behind the truck. Tailgating is especially dangerous because the truck driver cannot see vehicles directly behind.
- Side No-Zones: Found on both sides, but larger on the right side. Lingering in these areas increases the risk of being sideswiped during a lane change.
- Wide Right Turns: Trucks often swing left before turning right, creating a deceptive gap. Entering this space could put your vehicle in danger of being crushed.
Recognizing these blind spots is critical to keeping yourself and your passengers safe.
Tips for Avoiding Truck No-Zones
Here are five simple but life-saving strategies:
- Stay Visible
If you can’t see the truck driver’s face in their side mirror, they likely can’t see you. - Pass With Caution
Always pass quickly and on the left side, where the blind spot is smaller. Never linger alongside a truck. - Keep Your Distance
Give trucks extra space in front and behind. They need more time to stop and maneuver. - Avoid Tailgating
Following too closely reduces your reaction time and hides your car from the truck driver’s view. - Be Careful Around Turns
Never attempt to pass a truck on the right if it’s signaling a right turn—wait until the truck completes the maneuver.
For more guidance, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recommends drivers follow their “10 Tips for Driving Safely Around Large Trucks and Buses,” including staying focused, never driving fatigued, and always buckling up.
Legal Help After a Truck Accident
Even when you take every precaution, accidents with commercial trucks can still happen. Victims often suffer catastrophic injuries, including brain trauma, spinal cord injuries, and multiple fractures. At Hillstone Law, we know how to build strong cases for truck accident victims by:
- Investigating truck driver logs and maintenance records
- Reviewing black box data and accident reports
- Identifying all liable parties, including trucking companies and insurers
- Fighting for maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs
Contact Hillstone Law
Understanding what a No-Zone is can help prevent serious accidents, but if you’ve already been injured in a truck crash, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.
Call Hillstone Law today at (310) 595-1222 for a free consultation. Our experienced California truck accident attorneys will fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
