If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Florida, it may have been caused by hitting a car in your blind spot. Statistics from the National Highway Safety Administration indicate that over 800,000 blind spot accidents happen yearly. Understanding how blind spot accidents occur may make it easier to avoid them.
What is a blind spot?
A blind spot is an area around your vehicle that side mirrors or your rearview mirror can’t see. Turning your head and taking your eyes off the road is usually required to check these spots for traffic.
Blind spot accidents happen quickly
Unfortunately, blind spot accidents can occur quickly when a vehicle changes lanes. When driving on a high-speed highway, intersection or roundabout, another vehicle could change lanes, moving next to your car. If they move into your blind spot, it increases the odds of a motor vehicle accident occurring. Checking for blind spots when changing lanes or merging is vital.
Don’t rely on your mirrors
While having rearview and side mirrors can help with visibility while driving, it’s critical to not rely on them. Using your mirrors is no substitute for turning your head and looking around you for other cars. Always be sure that your mirrors are properly adjusted before your start the car.
Stay alert
If you experience distractions while driving, such as music or a phone call, it can take your mind off your duties as a safe driver. Staying aware of the vehicles around you and their behavior can be the difference between staying safe and getting into a car wreck.
When you know where your blind spots are while driving and how to check them, it should help you avoid getting into a motor vehicle accident. Looking at them frequently before changing lanes is highly recommended to stay safe.