Countless accidents, along with numerous close calls, are a result of drivers unable to see the approaching vehicle close to them. And, those conspicuous spots which drivers cannot directly see are referred to as Blind-Spots.
Further Explaining…
Blind spots exist around other vehicles which most experienced drivers find it difficult to see with their peripheral vision and their side and rear mirrors. Many even regard this as a life-threatening safety hazard, especially as drivers are unable to see or know what other vehicles close to them are trying to do.
Changing streets or lanes becomes very difficult (and risky), especially when other cars will be running at 60-70 kmph. Being unaware of your blind spot, the last thing you would wish for is to be struck by a vehicle accelerating at a fair rate. The damage caused, not to forget the physical injury will be quiet severe- even fatal- at times!
As per recent studies, there have been reports of over 200 fatalities resulting due to blind spot accidents. And some of those common injuries include:-
- Neck & Back Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Whiplash
- Occupant Ejection Injury
- Concussion Injury
- Wrist Injury
- Seat belt injury
Our Instructor’s Take To Averting Blind Spots & Improve Visibility:-
Look to adjust all your viewing mirrors. You can sit and place your head right against the window to adjust the left viewing mirror to get a partial view of all vehicles on the left side.
Lean towards the centre of the vehicle (mainly above the central console system) and adjust the right viewing mirror to partially view the right side of the vehicle.
Turn your head briefly to check for existing vehicles in the adjacent lanes. And carefully monitor their behaviour as they approach you.
In Addition:-
Whenever you think about shifting lanes, make proper use of your turn signals to make the other drivers aware so that they don’t speed towards you. Use your side and rear-view mirrors properly to know of any cars trailing you.
When scanning the street; ensure you get a complete 360-degree (in which includes the blind spot) for existing risk hazards, roadway markings, signs, signals or anything. Use 12-15 seconds to whenever you come across a fork in the road. And make a habit of checking your side and rear-view mirrors every 3-5 seconds for blind spots.
Other than constantly checking your viewing mirrors; you also need to resort to proper means of communication to let other drivers know what you intend to do. To do that; you can use hand signals, brake lights, hazard lights, reverse lights, directional signals, etc. when driving.
Stay clear of the area around the vehicle to avoid hazards (be it at the front, back or sides). If there is a vehicle ahead of you; maintain 3-6 second gap (as covered in our detailed defensive driving lessons in Burwood East). Another thing you need to do is hold your steering wheels steadily each time you aim to check over your shoulder.
Lastly- you also need to ensure that there aren’t too many items present at the back seat of your vehicle. They can restrict your view from the back-end mirror and make it difficult for you to check for blind spots. The last thing you want is to create a blind spot for yourself.
Want To Further Polish Your Driving Skills? Call @0425749703
“Academy Of Driving Excellence”; your reliable driving school in Burwood East; we have courses suitable for both beginners and advanced learners, and an impressive fleet of both manual and automated cars.
Our instructors are distinguished members of ADTAV along with proper training, also share effective driving test tips to learners in Burwood East.
So, don’t delay! Call us whenever you see fit. We are operational Mon -Sun : 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
