Understanding Driving Blind Spots: 2025 Guide

By Stuart

Understanding Driving Blind Spots and How to Mitigate Them

For learner drivers in Queensland and across Australia, understanding and managing blind spots is crucial for road safety. These hidden areas around your vehicle can conceal other road users, making them one of the leading causes of accidents. Let's explore what blind spots are and how to handle them effectively.

What Are Blind Spots?

Blind spots are areas around your vehicle that cannot be seen directly through your windows or mirrors. They typically occur:

Behind the rear pillars of your car
Just behind and to the sides of your vehicle
Immediately in front of your bonnet
Directly behind your vehicle when reversing

Quick Safety Tip

Never rely solely on mirrors. Physical head checks are essential for safe driving and are a requirement for passing your practical driving test in Queensland.

How to Check Your Blind Spots

Essential Steps for Blind Spot Checks

Adjust your mirrors correctly before driving
- Side mirrors should show minimal car body
- Rear-view mirror should frame your rear window
Perform a head check before:
- Changing lanes
- Merging
- Pulling out from a kerb
- Turning at intersections
Turn your head approximately 90 degrees to check the blind spot

Common Situations Requiring Blind Spot Checks

Lane Changes

Check mirrors, indicate, then perform a head check before moving

Merging

Essential when joining highways or when lanes merge

Reversing

Check all mirrors and perform a 360-degree check

Technology and Blind Spots

While modern vehicles often come equipped with blind-spot monitoring systems, professional driving instructors emphasise that these should be treated as supplementary aids rather than primary safety measures.

Remember: Technology can fail. Physical checks remain the most reliable method for blind spot monitoring.

Key Questions About Blind Spots

How often should I check my blind spots?

Any time you change your vehicle's position on the road, including lane changes, turns, and pulling out from a parked position.

What if I spot a vehicle in my blind spot?

Wait until the vehicle has passed and your blind spot is clear before making any manoeuvre.

Do different vehicles have different blind spots?

Yes, larger vehicles typically have larger blind spots. When learning with a driving school, your instructor will help you understand your training vehicle's specific blind spots.

Want to master blind spot checks and other essential driving skills? Consider booking professional lessons with qualified instructors. View our driving packages for comprehensive training options.