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Michael Redenburg

What Are the No-Zones of a Tractor Trailer?

Justia Elevate Team

Driving around tractor trailers can be kind of scary and with good reasons. These oversized vehicles tower over cars and other vehicles alike. Being close to a tractor trailer, you can feel its force as it can even cause your car to sway as it passes. Just looking at these trucks, you can tell that they pose unique dangers on the road. The size and weight of a tractor trailer are not to be underestimated. Due to its sheer magnitude, it is unlikely that an accident with a tractor trailer would be anything considered “minor.” That is why it is so important to be mindful of how to drive safely around these large vehicles. Part of this is learning about the tractor trailer’s “no-zones.”

Tractor trailers, semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, these large trucks have four distinctly large blind spots that are referred to as “no-zones” because cars and other vehicles should avoid entering these areas as they are unsafe. When the truck driver cannot see you, you are at a much greater risk of being in an accident. Let’s discuss the four zones so that you can help better avoid them on the road.

The front no-zone extends from the front end of the truck out to about 20 or so feet. If your vehicle is in the front no-zone, then the truck driver is more likely to not accurately calculate the time needed to safely come to a stop. This is extremely important as tractor trailers take a much longer time to stop because of how big they are. Without the proper amount of stopping space, those in the front no-zone are at risk of being rear-ended or, even worse, wedged between the front end of the tractor trailer and the back end of another vehicle.

The rear no-zone extends from the back end of the truck about 200 feet. This is a substantially sized area where the truck driver will not be able to see your vehicle. Those who persist in driving in this no zone run the risk of having the truck come to an abrupt stop or slow down. A smaller vehicle is likely not just to rear-end the truck, but to slide underneath the truck altogether, and the consequences of this type of accident are often catastrophic and even fatal.

The right no zone is located on the passenger side of the truck and is the largest of the no-zones. It extends from the driver and covers at least one or two lanes worth of length out from the truck itself. The left no zone is the smallest and is on the driver’s side of the tractor trailer. Those needing to pass a tractor trailer should do so sparingly and at a quick pace when the passing is actually necessary. Since the left no zone is substantially smaller than the right no zone, it is generally preferable to pass on the driver’s side of the truck.

New York City Personal Injury Attorney

Tractor trailer accidents can be particularly devastating. The injuries and damages left in their wake can change lives forever. For trusted legal counsel to help support and fight for you during this difficult time, Michael J. Redenburg, Esq. P.C. is here for you and your loved ones. Contact our office at 212-240-9465 today.

Client Reviews

I had a very positive experience working with Mr. Redenburg. He handled my personal injury case which was successfully settled over the course of two years. He was extremely diligent, knowledgeable and...

- Dawn N.

Michael Redenburg took over my [car accident] case when my past attorney retired from my case. My past attorney was the one who recommended him to me I can say it was the best choice he ever made. He is very...

- Fernando H.

Michael Redenburg is great at what he does. He helped me though the case after my accident helped me with everything. I didn't have to speak with the insurance company about anything he handled and in the end...

- Tamika

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