What term describes the areas around oversized vehicles where drivers may not be able to see or react to other vehicles?

The term that describes the areas around oversized vehicles where drivers may not be able to see or react to other vehicles is "blind spots." These are specific zones around a vehicle, particularly large ones like trucks or buses, where the driver has limited visibility and cannot easily see other vehicles or pedestrians.

Understanding blind spots is crucial for safe driving, especially when changing lanes or making turns, as it highlights the importance of checking mirrors and being aware of one's surrounding before maneuvering. This knowledge helps prevent accidents caused by vehicles that are often either not visible to the driver or could be in a position that makes them difficult to detect quickly.

In contrast, the other terms mentioned do not accurately capture this concept. "Safe zones" generally refer to areas where drivers can safely stop or perform a maneuver. "Visibility zones" and "reaction areas" do not have standardized definitions in driving contexts and fail to address the specific problem of limited sightlines that blind spots imply. Recognition of blind spots remains vital for drivers to ensure safety on the road.