Blind Spot
An area around a vehicle where the driver cannot see you — not in mirrors, not in peripheral vision.
What is it
A blind spot is an area around a vehicle where the driver cannot see you — neither in mirrors nor in peripheral vision. For a motorcyclist, being in a blind spot is like being invisible. The driver may merge or turn directly into you.
How it happens
A rider travels beside a car — slightly behind and to the side. The driver decides to change lanes, checks mirrors — no motorcycle visible. They begin the maneuver and hit the rider. Trucks have much larger blind spots.
How to reduce the risk
- Don't linger beside vehicles — either pass or stay behind
- Rule: if you can't see the driver's mirror — they can't see you
- Trucks have blind spots on all sides — keep maximum distance
- Move through blind spots quickly — don't dwell in them
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Related terms
Perception Error
Misjudging speed, distance, or the intention of another road user. The number one cause of crashes.
Visibility Blocker
An object blocking your line of sight — a truck, fence, bush. Anything could be behind the blocker.
Target Fixation
Involuntarily staring at an obstacle instead of the safe path — and riding straight into it.
Left Turn Danger
A car turns left across your path — the most common type of motorcycle collision.
Car Door Opening
A driver or passenger opens a parked car door directly into a motorcyclist's path.
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