What area is created by a blocking vehicle where there is very little room to walk and approaching traffic comes close?

The area created by a blocking vehicle where there is very little room to walk and approaching traffic comes close is referred to as a "zero buffer." This term indicates a situation where there is insufficient space between the blocking vehicle and moving traffic, posing a significant risk to personnel on the scene. In a zero buffer situation, responders have limited maneuverability and are at heightened danger from passing vehicles.

Understanding the concept of a zero buffer is essential for traffic incident management, as it highlights the need for effective scene management strategies, including establishing safe zones for responders and ensuring that protective measures are in place to mitigate risks associated with nearby traffic. Recognizing when a zero buffer exists helps responders make better decisions to protect themselves and the public during incident response operations.