A 3 meter blind spot around the car doesn't necessitate it can't see beyond 3 meters. Just as you have blind spots in your vision around your body (like you can't see your legs when looking directly forward) but you can see long distances.

The LIDAR is on the roof. I can see the roof blocking some things close to the car depending on how tall they are.

However, my point is what happens within 3 meters is irrelevant, the car needs to look ahead and brake much sooner than the last 15 feet to avoid hitting stuff.

I think we both agree then, I just mis-interpreted the emphasis of your point.