What does the term "blind spot" refer to in driving?

The term "blind spot" in driving refers specifically to areas around the vehicle that are not visible through mirrors. This concept is crucial for safe driving, especially for larger vehicles like trucks and buses, which typically have larger blind spots compared to standard passenger vehicles.

Understanding blind spots emphasizes the importance of checking them physically by turning one's head rather than relying solely on mirrors. These areas can hide other vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles, making awareness of them essential to prevent accidents during maneuvers such as changing lanes or merging. Recognizing the limitations of mirrors helps drivers take appropriate precautions and is integral to defensive driving practices.

While other areas around the vehicle, such as those visible through mirrors or directly in front, are important for safe operation, they don't involve the concept of blind spots, which specifically denotes those unseen zones that can pose hazards on the road.