Travel during the summer can be even more dangerous than in the winter. No, there isn’t any snow or ice that you have to watch out for, but in the summer there are tons of people out an about and you need to keep your eyes open and alert! With warmer weather brings people going out for walks, walking the dog, kids playing outside, cyclists, and motorists, and so many other reasons. As a driver slowing down is a great start, because speeding tends to happen more in the summer. But this week we want to focus on something else, we want to focus on blind spots.

If you aren’t sure what blind spots are, they are spots in your mirror that you cannot see. One of the most common times blindspots are an issue is when changing lanes. If cyclists, motorists or pedestrians are in your blind spot and you go to change lanes or make a turn, the possibility of a crash is high. So how do you avoid this from happening? Well, we’re glad you asked! Below you will find tips for avoiding blind spot crashes for cyclists, motorists, or pedestrians. And if you want to slip behind the wheel of a new Volkswagen that offers Blind Spot Monitoring, then stop into Fiore Volkswagen and allow us to help you find the right ride for you!  

Pedestrians and Blind Spots:

• Avoid being in a vehicle’s blind spot, especially trucks and buses.
• Make eye contact with the driver. Otherwise, assume the driver cannot see you.
• Be alert at intersections, even when you have the right of way, e.g. on a green light or pedestrian crossing signal.
• Pay attention to the turn signal lights used by vehicles at intersections.
• Do not cross behind a vehicle as it could back up without noticing you.
• Be visible: wear bright clothing, reflective strips, etc.
• If you are trying to make your presence known, keep in mind that the driver cannot hear you.
• Walk on the sidewalk, or, if there isn’t one, on the side of the road, facing traffic.

Cyclists and Blind Spot

• Avoid being in a vehicle’s blind spot, especially trucks and buses.
• Make eye contact with the driver. Otherwise, assume the driver cannot see you.
• Pay attention to the turn signal lights used by vehicles at intersections.
• Be visible: wear bright clothing, reflective strips, etc.
• Never pass on the right near an intersection.

Motorists, Motorcyclist and Blind Spots:

• Avoid being in a large vehicle’s blind spot
• Do not cut off a heavy vehicle
• Never pass a heavy vehicle on the right at an intersection
• Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the heavy vehicle in front of you
• Pay attention to the turn signal lights used by vehicles at intersections.