DRIVER'S HANDBOOK

Chapter 6: Driving Responsibly

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    Big trucks have big blind spots and to stay safe, you should avoid them. The No-Zone refers to blind spot areas around big trucks, where collisions are more likely to occur.

    Rear

    Trucks have deep rear blind spots. A truck driver can’t see you if you’re in this No-Zone — especially if you’re tailgating. If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you. Stay well back of big trucks to avoid a rear-end collision.

    Side

    Trucks have large blind spots on both sides. If you stay in these blind spots, that can mean trouble if the truck driver decides to change lanes.

    Front

    Truck drivers sit up high, and the hood of the cab obscures part of the road ahead. When you pass a big truck, make sure you can see the entire truck cab in your rear-view mirror before pulling in front. When vehicles cut in too soon, then abruptly slow down, truck drivers are forced to react with little time or room to spare.

    Backing

    Never pass close behind a truck that is preparing to back up or is in the process of backing up. Most trailers are 2½ metres wide and completely hide objects behind them.

    Wide Turns

    Truck drivers must sometimes swing wide to the left in order to make a right turn. They can’t see cars directly behind or beside them. If you cut in between the truck and the right curb, you might cause a collision.

    No-zone around large vehicles