A 2-minute lesson from the Iowa course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Every vehicle has areas its driver can't see in the mirrors. Some come from the car itself—mirrors and door posts—and some from the world around you: trees, the sun, hedges, hills, and walls. Staying out of other drivers' blind spots is as important as checking your own.
Blind spot
An area outside your vehicle that cannot be seen using your mirrors.
The sun can create blind spots with reflections off any window. The front windshield is the most common place for glare; sunglasses or visors help shield your eyes.
Blind spots on either side, outside the mirror views
Put it into practice
On the interstate you realize you've been cruising beside a semi's trailer for a mile. Either pass promptly or drop back—never linger alongside a truck.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
Why shouldn't you drive alongside a large truck or bus for an extended time?
It's illegal to drive beside them
Trucks have the right-of-way on highways
It uses more fuel to stay beside them
Their blind spots are larger than a car's
Answer: Their blind spots are larger than a car's
Large vehicles have large blind spots, and it's hard for their drivers to see vehicles alongside them.
