Truck blind spots: A critical road safety issue in Morocco

Blind spots around heavy trucks represent a major safety concern on Morocco's roads and highways. Unlike cars, where blind spots are a known hazard, trucks present a far more serious problem due to their elevated cab position and massive size.

Why Do Trucks Have So Many Blind Spots?

A truck driver sits several meters above road level. While this elevated position offers better visibility at distance, it creates significant blind zones directly adjacent to the vehicle. Everything positioned near the truck—pedestrians, motorcycles, scooters—simply disappears from the driver's field of vision, even when using standard mirrors.

The Demonstration That Opens Eyes

ECF Pro, a driving school specializing in heavy vehicle training, produced a striking video that illustrates this reality. By comparing the driver's view from the cab with the actual surroundings when the truck is stationary, the contrast is stark:

• Pedestrians crossing directly in front of the truck wheels, completely invisible from the cab
• A scooter parked on the truck's left side
• Multiple road users positioned behind the vehicle, entirely out of view

Legal Requirement for Awareness

Recognizing this danger, regulations have evolved. Since 2021, all vehicles over 3.5 tonnes must display a "Watch for blind spots" warning sticker to alert other road users. This measure aims to instill responsibility across the board.

Practical Safety Guidelines

If you share the road with heavy trucks in Morocco, follow these essential rules:

• Never position yourself beside a truck during stops or slow traffic
• Avoid staying in front of or behind a truck in urban congestion
• Make yourself visible: drivers compensate with heightened attention, but cannot see everywhere
• Maintain safe distance when overtaking
• Assume the driver cannot see you until you're certain you're in their line of sight

While modern truck systems increasingly include perimeter alert technology, these remain aids rather than solutions. Human vigilance remains irreplaceable.

Source: caradisiac