Blind Spots
What is a Blind Spot?
A blind spot is any area you can’t see using your normal vision or mirrors.
These include:
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The space between your forward view and what’s visible in your exterior mirrors.
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The areas hidden by the car’s bodywork.
Larger vehicles, such as SUVs and vans, have bigger blind spots, which may obscure pedestrians, cyclists, or smaller cars.
Reducing Blind Spots
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Auxiliary mirrors can widen your view, but won’t eliminate blind spots completely.
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Some vehicles have blind-spot detection systems that use sensors or cameras to alert you to vehicles in adjacent lanes — usually through warning lights or sounds.
Even with technology, always perform manual checks.
Before moving off, look over your right shoulder to check your blind spot.
Do the same before opening your door to avoid endangering passing cyclists or motorcyclists.
The 'Dutch Reach' Technique
To safely open your door:
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Reach for the handle with your left hand (furthest from the door).
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This movement naturally makes you look over your right shoulder.
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Check for cyclists or other road users.
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Open the door slowly, controlling it with your right hand — especially in windy conditions.
Checking Blind Spots While Moving
Sometimes, you’ll need to glance into your blind spots while driving — for example:
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Before changing lanes
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When joining a motorway or dual carriageway
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When traffic merges from the left or right
Only take a quick sideways glance.
Never turn fully around — at speed, even a brief distraction can be dangerous.
Be aware of other drivers’ blind spots too, especially when overtaking large vehicles.