If you’re a driver, you’ve most certainly heard the term ‘blindspot’. These are areas where a person’s view is obstructed or their field of vision is limited. From your driver’s seat, parts of your vehicle obstruct your view of pedestrians and other vehicles.
Being aware of your car’s blind spots and knowing how to avoid them, can keep you from getting into an unnecessary accident. If you’ve been in a crash due to a blind spot, contact an auto accident attorney Bay Area to help you with your case.
1. Properly Adjust the Driver’s Seat
The proper seating adjustment will help you to get a good view of what’s going on around you, as well as make it safer for you to drive. When adjusting your seat, make sure your left leg is a little stretched when you press the gas and the brake pedals.
The headrest should be a little less than two inches from your head and the height should match the position of your eyes. Keep the backrest as upright as possible, inclining the seat no more than 25 degrees. All this will help eliminate blindspots and help avoid injuries in the event of an accident.
2. Properly Position Your Mirrors
When positioning your right side mirror, make sure you are able to see the entire length of your vehicle, as well as the lane you’re driving in. Your left side mirror should reflect the rear end of your car, but mainly focus on the lane and any cars that might be next to you.
Although many people raise themselves up when adjusting the rearview mirror, it is most effective to adjust it from your actual driving position. Adjust the mirror until you can easily and completely see the rear windshield.
3. Always Use Your Turn Signals
Even if you think there are no other vehicles around you, it’s important to always use your turn signals. Make it a habit of giving a signal every time you make a lane change or are going to make a turn in order to warn other drivers of your intentions and avoid an accident.
4. Utilize Reverse Sensors and Cameras
When you’re parking your car, you will want to look in your rearview mirror to avoid hitting surrounding objects. Many newer vehicles come equipped with back-up cameras and sensors, or you can have them installed. They will alert you if a pedestrian or other object is in your path.
5. Be Aware of Other Drivers at All Times
You have blindspots and so do the other drivers on the road. Even though you are extremely careful, that doesn’t mean the next person is. You need to be constantly aware of where other vehicles are positioned in relation to your car and others.
Never ride in the blindspot of another vehicle, taking extra caution to avoid the blindspots of large vehicles such as tractor trailer trucks. Be sure to keep a good distance behind large vehicles, as it’s more difficult for them to see you in their rearview mirrors.
