The most important rule to remember when learning to drive is to always check your blind spots. However, since commercial vehicles are larger in size, it becomes more difficult to achieve this. As a result, understanding how to properly position truck mirrors is critical, as it can mean the difference between a devastating accident and a safe trip.
Read on for more information on how to set your truck mirrors so that blind spots are eliminated.
Positioning Truck Mirrors
The following procedures for correctly positioning mirrors will help you eliminate blind spots and avoid truck crashes.
- Adjust the driver’s side mirror. Place your head against the window. Start with the mirrors in a perpendicular position to the cab. Begin pulling the mirror in toward you and stop as soon as you can see a sliver of your truck in the right side of the mirror.
- Move your head to a normal position. Begin pulling the top of the mirror down. Keeping your head straight, look to your left and move the mirror until you can see the road behind you.
- Adjust the passenger side mirror. Move your head to the right until it is in the center of the cab. Start with the mirrors in a perpendicular position. Move the mirror toward you until you can see a sliver of your truck in the left side of the mirror.
- Move your head to a normal position and pull the mirror down until you can see the ground next to the trailer in the bottom of the mirror. You have less peripheral visibility in this mirror, so it may have to be tilted down more than the other mirror.
- Sit in your normal position and reassess both mirrors. If you think your vision falls short, bring your mirrors up and out a bit. Be careful not to compromise the visibility of the part of the road behind your periphery, as this is the crucial blind spot area.
The Importance of Checking Your Blind Spots
Even when their mirrors are properly positioned, truck drivers must effectively drive with blind spots. This method, however, should ensure that the mirrors are positioned far enough outward to minimize them. Sit in a normal driving position and keep an eye on the mirrors as a vehicle passes by. Only when the vehicle appears in your peripheral vision should it vanish from the side mirror.
Be Cautious When Changing Lanes
When changing lanes, always use your directional signals to indicate to other drivers that you intend to change lanes or turn. Check your outside mirrors for vehicles and move slowly from one lane to the next. If a vehicle approaching from behind is closing in quickly, don’t change lanes.
Bottom Line
In the event of an accident, you must ensure that you have adequate insurance to protect your business. We can assist you with this. Fill out our online form, call us, or message us on LiveChat to receive three free truck insurance quotes. Our transportation team is eager to assist you with your insurance needs.
For more information on hot shot insurance, car hauling insurance, box truck insurance, and so forth, contact us today.
