How does a driver identify their blind spots in a commercial vehicle?

Identifying blind spots in a commercial vehicle is crucial for maintaining safety on the road. The most effective method involves checking mirrors and physically turning to look around the vehicle. This approach combines the use of mirrors, which provide some visibility of the surroundings, with the necessity of ensuring that there are no obstacles or other vehicles present that may not be captured by the mirrors alone.

Blind spots can be significant in larger vehicles due to their size and shape, making them areas that mirrors might not fully cover. By physically turning to check these areas, a driver can gain a complete understanding of their immediate surroundings, ensuring better situational awareness and the ability to make safer driving decisions.

Using only mirrors does not account for larger blind spots that may still exist, while relying solely on technology, like rearview cameras, can also leave gaps in awareness, as these systems may not display all necessary angles. Additionally, waiting for other drivers to signal their presence is reactive rather than proactive, which can lead to dangerous situations on the road. Thus, the comprehensive method of checking mirrors along with a physical turn provides the best safeguard against potential accidents related to blind spots.