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IAM urges drivers to consider A pillar blind spots

24th June 2008

The Institute of Advanced Motoring (IAM) has warned drivers that they should be aware that A pillars in modern cars are getting bigger and that this could affect visibility.

A pillars are the area dividing the windscreen and the windows. The IAM reported that they have become sturdier in recent years as manufacturers look "to improve the structure of the car as a whole" and keep down car insurance premiums.

However, the IAM said that drivers need to be aware that "the A pillar has created a blind spot which campaigners have pointed out obstructs the vision of thousands of drivers".

The organisation acknowledged that a report on the issue carried out in 2006 by the Department for Transport found that there was not enough evidence to suggest that changes to current legislation regarding A pillar design would be of benefit.

As a result, the IAM said: "The onus is on drivers to cater for possible A pillar restriction.

"It is vital to check that nothing is hidden from view by the A pillar before making a manoeuvre. Pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are easy to 'lose' in the space behind a pillar.

"As you are driving in a straight line in approach to a junction, look further ahead, and scan to the left and right on your approach. That way you will see things through the windscreens before they become 'lost' behind the pillars." ADNFCR-1602-ID-18652817-ADNFCR