When you begin learning to drive, you gain knowledge of different “blind spots” in your vehicle that hinder your ability to see other vehicles on the road. In most vehicles, the blind spots are located to the back left and to the back right of your car. By using your mirrors correctly you will improve visibility, and this will help eliminate the blind spots in your vehicle. Be sure to position the interior mirror so that the centre of the mirror captures the centre of the rear window to make it possible for you to see directly behind your car.
Blind Spot Tips
Blind spots are extremely tricky when driving, because you can easily change lanes without knowing there is another vehicle beside you. When changing lanes you have to make sure that you:
- Check your blind spot, your mirrors, and any adjacent lanes before making your way to the next lane;
- Signal before your lane change;
- Keep a safe distance between other vehicles;
- Adjust your speed according to the new lane; and
- Change lanes smoothly and gradually.
If you follow these guidelines, you will be able to successfully change lanes without hindering your visibility and causing a serious car accident.
What You Should Do
While driving, there are ways to make safe lane changes and turns despite the blind spots hindering your ability to see. Here are a few tips to drive safely, while making sure that you are always aware of other vehicles around you:
- Adjust your mirrors before driving;
- Turn your head and look over your shoulder before: turning, passing, changing lanes, or opening your door;
- Continuously check your mirrors every few seconds;
- Stay out of other driver’s blind spots; and
- Do not put anything in the window that will block your view.
Blind spots do not have to cause serious accidents if you use your mirrors correctly and make an effort to be aware of the vehicles around you. Usually serious accidents at intersections occur when drivers make turns without checking their blind spots first. If another driver is at-fault in an accident, automobile accident lawyers will ensure that you receive help for the losses that you endured in the accident. It is the duty of every driver to share the road and look out for other drivers. Blind spots are never an excuse for causing a serious motor vehicle accident, and you should not have to pay for the consequences due to another driver’s mistakes.
Hiring a Toronto Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been involved in a serious car accident, you should find automobile accident lawyers that have your best interests in mind when handling your case. Book an appointment with a Toronto personal injury lawyer or automobile accident lawyer at Sokoloff today for a free consultation. We would be happy to answer any questions you might have about your case, while getting to know you on a personal level.
Sources:
http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/driver/handbook/section2.1.6.shtml
http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/safe-driving-practices.shtml#blind-spots