Ask a Trooper: Talk about the big rig 'no zone'

Ask a Trooper by Sgt. Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol

Question: I am a truck driver and I see a lot of people making some poor choices around us big rigs out here. Do you guys still talk about the “no zone?” If not, please do and thank you.

Answer: Thank you for the email and yes, we do and I will help get the word out. If you are following a commercial vehicle, stay out of its “no zones.” These zones are blind spots to the front, sides, and rear of the vehicle. Some truck drivers may not be able to see up to 20 feet in front of the cab, on either side of the trailer, and up to 200 feet to the rear.

Trucks and buses have operating restrictions, and sometimes use technology like speed limiters. Honking, driving aggressively, or weaving through traffic won’t make the trip faster, but can cause dangerous distractions and crashes. A little bit of patience and courtesy can go a long way and help keep everyone safe.

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota 56501-2205. (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).