<P> Blind spots may occur in the front of the driver when the A-pillar (also called the windshield pillar), side - view mirror, or interior rear - view mirror block a driver's view of the road . Behind the driver, cargo, headrests, and additional pillars may reduce visibility . </P> <P> If the side view mirrors of a car are adjusted in a particular way, there is no blind spot on the sides . Such an arrangement can greatly reduce the probability of side swipes and other accidents, particularly during lane changes . This method was first revealed by George Platzer in a 1995 paper presented to the Society of Automotive Engineers . The method is frequently overlooked in driver's education classes and takes some getting used to . Calculated elimination of blind spots by properly trained drivers is inexpensive and obviates the need for costly technological solutions to that problem, provided drivers take the time to set up and use their mirrors effectively . The arrangement--pointing the side - view mirrors substantially outboard in a fixed mechanical formula--is relatively simple to achieve, but it takes some knowledgeable effort and getting used to . It is reputed to be a lifesaver . </P> <P> However, one source considers that method a driving mistake and claims it is even more dangerous than not using it, because it creates other blind spots directly behind the vehicle--he lists nine reasons, e.g., when backing up--which are impossible to eliminate by a "shoulder check". </P> <P> Rearward invisibility is an entirely different matter . The area directly behind vehicles is the source of back - up collisions, particularly involving pedestrians, children, and objects directly aft of a vehicle . That area has been called a "killing zone". These problems are the object of a number of technological solutions, including (in rough order of technological complexity, simplest first): rear - view mirror, side - view mirror . fresnel lens, sonar, parking sensors, and backup camera . A similar problem attaches to positions left and right of a vehicles' rear bumper as the driver attempts to back out of a parking space . Specially designed cross traffic alert warning systems have been developed to address these . </P>

Where is the driver's blind spot usually located