Europe continues to make progress in reducing road accidents, yet awareness about the unique risks posed by trucks’ blind spots remains worryingly low. On European Road Safety Day, experts across the continent stress that understanding how trucks and other large vehicles operate is essential to keeping everyone safe on the road.
“The biggest mistake people make is assuming that if they can see a truck, the driver can see them too. The reality is often very different,” says Singaras Čepaitis, Drivers Training Team Lead at Girteka, one of Europe’s largest logistics companies.
Blind spots make you invisible: an experiment to prove the difference
Every year, hundreds of accidents across Europe involve trucks and vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders. Despite advanced safety systems and mirrors, large trucks have four main blind spots – in front of the cabin, behind the trailer, and on both sides – where visibility drops to almost zero.
Even though modern trucks are equipped with up to six mirrors, they still don’t provide a complete view of the road. A heavy-duty truck can weigh up to 40 tonnes and has a braking distance of over 100 metres, making it vital for everyone on the road to understand these limitations.
To demonstrate this, Girteka organised a social experiment. One group of participants sat behind the wheel of a parked truck, while another stood in the truck’s blind spots. The result? Most “drivers” confidently said the road looked clear – even though people were standing just a few metres away, completely invisible from the cabin.
“When people take the driver’s seat for the first time, they’re shocked,” Čepaitis explains. “Despite the height and large mirrors, they can’t see pedestrians, cyclists, motorcycles, or even cars right in front of or beside the truck. When that vehicle starts moving, with constantly changing surroundings, visibility becomes even more limited.”
According to Čepaitis, the greatest danger occurs when a truck turns right. “The driver may have no view of a cyclist or pedestrian near the cabin, and even a brief moment of inattention can lead to tragedy,” he warns.
The blind spot experiment is part of Girteka’s long-term Be Safe on the Road campaign – an ongoing effort to educate people on how to move safely and responsibly alongside heavy vehicles.
Road Safety Caravan – bringing awareness to schools
As part of the Be Safe on the Road initiative, the Road Safety Caravan travels across schools in Lithuania – one of the EU’s most active road safety education projects led by the private sector. Its goal is simple yet powerful – to help children understand how to stay safe around large vehicles and become more conscious road users from an early age.
“The caravan will be visiting schools in Lithuanian cities and towns for several weeks,” says Mindaugas Paulauskas, CEO of Girteka Transport. “Children should hear about road safety regularly, especially at the start of the school year when they begin travelling independently. As days get shorter, reflectors become even more important. By teaching children how trucks move and where their blind spots are, we’re helping them stay safe not only today but for the future. Educating the youngest road users is one of the best long-term investments we can make in safer roads across Europe.”
How to make sure you’re visible?
According to Čepaitis, the best way to ensure you’re not in a blind spot is through eye contact with the truck driver.
“If you can see the driver’s face in the mirror or through the windshield, they can probably see you too. If you can’t – you’re in a blind spot. This applies to pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders alike,” he explains. “Don’t hesitate to wave or nod to catch the driver’s attention.”
A few small habits can make a big difference:
- Avoid walking too close to trucks, especially in front of or behind them. If you can’t see the driver’s face in the mirror – the driver can’t see you.
- Cross the street only when you’re sure the driver sees you. Make eye contact or wait for the truck to pass.
- Remember that trucks need more time and space to stop or turn – give them more space.
- Stay visible in low light. Wear bright or reflective clothing – it helps drivers notice you earlier.
- Never walk between a truck and a trailer – it’s one of the most dangerous blind spots.
- Don’t use your phone or headphones when walking near heavy traffic. Awareness saves lives.
Because road safety begins with understanding, and awareness can save lives.
