When learning to drive, understanding and safely navigating blind spots is crucial for both your safety and the safety of others on the road. Blind spots are areas around your vehicle that are not visible through mirrors, making them potentially dangerous if not properly monitored. As a learner driver, it’s essential to know how to check these spots and use proper techniques to avoid accidents. At Wimbledon Driving School, we offer a range of driving lessons for students all across London, including in Richmond. In this post, we discuss what you need to know about blind spots and tips on navigating them safely.
What are Blind Spots and Why are They Important?
Blind spots are areas around your vehicle that are not visible through your mirrors or peripheral vision while driving. These spots can be found in areas around the vehicle and can hide other vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, or obstacles. Because blind spots are not directly visible, they can be extremely dangerous if not properly checked before manoeuvring.
For new drivers, this poses a significant risk, as they may not yet be familiar with all the potential hazards in these hidden areas. Failing to check blind spots, especially when changing lanes, merging, or turning, can lead to accidents. As a learner driver, it’s essential to understand and be vigilant about blind spots in order to stay safe on the road.
The Different Types of Blind Spots
There are three main types of blind spots you will encounter while driving. These are the front, rear, and side blind spots. Each of these blind spots is important for new drivers to understand, as they affect your ability to see other road users. Below is more detailed information about each of these spots.
Front Blind Spot
The front blind spot is an area directly ahead of your car that’s not visible through your windscreen or mirrors. It’s common when a car is behind larger vehicles, such as lorries or buses, which can obscure your view. When driving, be mindful of the road ahead and anticipate potential hazards that may arise in this area, such as pedestrians crossing the road or other vehicles turning into your path.
Rear Blind Spot
The rear blind spot refers to the area behind your car that cannot be seen in your rear view mirror or side mirrors. This can be a particularly challenging spot for new drivers, as many are not yet accustomed to properly using their mirrors or relying on their own awareness to check this area. Before reversing or changing lanes, it’s important to physically check over your shoulder to ensure there are no vehicles, cyclists, or other road users in your rear blind spot.
Side Blind Spot
Side blind spots are located along the sides of your vehicle, typically on either side near the rear. These areas are often hidden from view in your side mirrors and can be difficult to spot unless you physically look over your shoulder. Side blind spots are especially crucial when merging onto highways, changing lanes, or making a turn at a junction. Always remember to check side mirrors and glance over your shoulder before changing lanes to ensure your safety.
Different Vehicles Have Different Blind Spots
The blind spots on different types of vehicles can vary, especially when comparing smaller cars to larger vehicles such as vans, trucks, or buses. Larger vehicles tend to have larger and more pronounced blind spots, which can make it harder to see other road users. This is why it’s important for new drivers to be aware of the vehicle they’re driving and its specific blind spot challenges.
When driving near larger vehicles, always make sure that you maintain a safe distance and be extra cautious when changing lanes or merging. Smaller cars tend to have more manageable blind spots, but that doesn’t mean they should be overlooked. Every vehicle has blind spots, and it’s essential to stay aware of them.
How to Safely Check Blind Spots During Your Driving Lessons
During driving lessons, as well as preparing for your driving test, it’s vital to learn how to safely and correctly check for blind spots. Blind spots can seriously affect road safety, especially when changing lanes, merging, or turning. Below are some tips to help you safely check your blind spots when driving:
Always Look Over Your Shoulder
One of the most effective ways to check for blind spots, especially on the sides of your vehicle, is to physically look over your shoulder. This gives you a full view of the area that might be hidden from your side mirrors. Whether you’re preparing to change lanes or make a turn, make it a habit to glance over your shoulder to ensure that no other road users are in your blind spot.
Use Your Mirrors Properly
Before you even consider moving your vehicle, it’s essential to adjust your mirrors properly so you have the clearest possible view. Ensure side mirrors are angled to give you the maximum coverage of the area beside and behind your car. Your rear view mirror should provide a good view of the traffic behind you. However, remember that mirrors alone cannot completely eliminate blind spots; looking over your shoulder is still necessary.
Check Blind Spots Before Every Manoeuvre
Whether you’re joining a motorway, changing lanes, or making a turn, always check your blind spots before you do anything. It’s a good practice to check them just before starting any move and while preparing for it. When driving in busy traffic, you may need to check your blind spots more frequently. Make sure to signal well in advance and ensure it’s safe to proceed.
Driving Lessons in Richmond with Wimbledon Driving School
If you’re looking to master blind spot checks during your driving lessons, why not book a lesson with Wimbledon Driving School? We are a trusted driving school offering driving lessons to students across London, and in Richmond. Our team of highly skilled and experienced instructors is dedicated to providing you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to pass your driving test.
We offer a comprehensive range of both automatic and manual driving lessons in Richmond, all at affordable prices. With Wimbledon Driving School, you can be confident that you’ll be well on your way to success and feel comfortable tackling blind spots. To book lessons with Wimbledon Driving School, simply use our easy online booking tool or get in touch for further assistance.
