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13. BLINDSPOTS

The basic design of motor vehicles has not changed very much in the past. Obstacles blocking a driver's view can't be eliminated. The frame holding the front windscreen, the door pillars or rear panels are all necessary parts of the structure. 

Likewise, headrests have saved many people from a broken neck in a crash. But these objects can block a driver's field of vision, often with tragic consequences. A pedestrian or cyclist may be hidden in that blind area for a split second.

There are two categories of blindspots -inside the vehicle (mentioned above) and those created by obstacles outside :

1. INSIDE THE VEHICLE: 

Door frames

Head restraints

Passengers

Luggage...

 ... even a driver's long hair could impair clear vision!

Obstructive items people carry, clothes on coat hangers, novelties dangling from the rear view mirror, all may create a blind spot and should be avoided. Glasses should preferably have thin frames.   

2. OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE:

Trucks and Vans 

Buses

  Trees or bushes

Fences or building

  ... or just an embankments may obstruct the view:

Very limited vision! If this driver moves forward, he will see better and will be seen earlier by other traffic!

More examples of dangers created by blind-spots:

If you cannot see the driver, He/she cannot see you! Prepare to stop, as the truck is likely to continue reversing.

 Traffic stopped in the lane beside. Caution: A child or pedestrian could step from between the trucks!

The sign obstructs the view to the left. Only proceed after moving forward to check beyond for approaching traffic.

Blind spots, inside or outside the vehicle, create a risk. Safe drivers recognize these and take appropriate action to eliminate the risk. 

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Our information could vary in your part of the world. We recommend you use above information in conjunction with a professional driving instructor.

Road Safety by Dieter Fischer 2001 - Learner Drive Hub 2020.