7 Tips FOR Using Mirrors While Driving To Keep You Safe
In today’s era, mirrors play a critical role in the safe driving of a vehicle. Therefore, on seeing its importance, many car firms have integrated the mirror as an electronic component in the car. However, there are still ample vehicles in the market, which requires manual adjustment. To add on to the safety of your vehicle, let us learn certain vital tips for using mirrors while driving.
Type of Mirrors in a Car
People daily commute to their places safely without being aware of the type of mirrors they are using while driving. These different types of mirrors are side-view, rear-view, and the mirror in headlights of a car.
1. Headlight Mirror
This concave mirror covering the headlights is widely used during the night or extreme weather conditions like on a foggy or rainy day. With its property of light divergence, it allows the driver to get the maximum visibility of the area in front.
2. Side View Mirror
Mounted on both the front car doors, these reflectors use the convex lens to minimize the size of the objects.
In fact, these convex mirrors have the attribute to show large areas by making the size of objects small. Thus, the surrounding objects appear to be smaller and farther than they actually are.
It assists by providing the side and far behind view of the vehicle. Moreover, the person gets the peripheral vision of the objects from the driver’s seat. That is why for safety reasons it is always mentioned on the mirror “Objects in the mirror are closer than they appear.
3. Rear View Mirror
Attached inside the car, this concave mirror is attached to the windshield. It’s mainly responsible for showing the immediate back view of the vehicle.
Essential Tips for Using Mirrors While Driving
Accessing mirrors in the car can prevent hundreds of accidents occurring on roads daily. So, for a safe journey, always adhere to the following tips of using mirrors while driving in the car.
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1. Moving from a Stationary State
An appropriate and safe observation before driving off really helps a lot in controlling the car. Moreover, the accuracy saves the vehicle from any severe damage or, a slight bend. Therefore, before moving, one must always check the view in right door mirror, followed by the rear reflector. Then, look for the right blind spot area, and next, again in the right mirror. If everything is clear, then drive away the car.
2. Speed Adjustment
Before accelerating the speed of the vehicle, it is wise to check the side mirrors as there may be another vehicle trying to overtake you. Similarly, while slowing down the car, always confirm the speed of behind vehicle from the rear-view mirror. Otherwise, due to this minor negligence, the vehicle behind your car won’t get the time to react.
3. Direction Change or, Overtaking
Mirrors need to be checked before changing the lane or, trying to overtake the vehicle. In such cases, the blind spot and the appropriate reflectors must be accessed first, in order to ensure that there is no vehicle on the side.
4. Giving Signals
Majorly confusion or, accidents occur when before signaling, the mirrors are not checked for the upcoming vehicle. Hence, it is equally important to check the side mirrors and make your decision accordingly for a turn.
5. Opening Car Doors
It might not sound important but assess the side and rear view mirror in the congested area. As it not only prevents the vehicle from any damage but also the person who may be coming by any vehicle or on foot from behind.
6. Safe Distance from another Vehicle
Safety experts usually recommend checking the side mirrors while driving. The essential thing to look while driving a car is the distance of your vehicle from the others. So, those who wish for a safe and enjoyable ride must maintain a proper distance by using mirrors while driving.
7. Driving with Trailer
Always watch the mirror, while pulling the trailer. Checking the rear and both the side view mirror is essential in this case, to avoid the hitting of the trailer’s wheel with another vehicle.
FAQs
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How should I adjust the side mirrors for maximum safety?
To minimize blind spots, adjust the side mirrors so that they cover areas not visible in the rearview mirror. Ensure there is no overlap with the rearview mirror’s view.
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How often should I check my mirrors while driving?
Continuously scan your mirrors throughout your drive. Frequent mirror checks help you stay aware of your surroundings and potential dangers.
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What’s the “mirror, signal, maneuver” routine?
It’s a crucial sequence for safe driving. Check your mirrors first, then use your turn signal to indicate your intentions, and finally, execute the intended maneuver, such as changing lanes or making a turn.
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Can I use mirrors to parallel park?
Yes, mirrors are valuable tools for parallel parking. Use them to gauge your distance from the curb and other vehicles as you maneuver into the parking space.
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How can I reduce glare in my mirrors during nighttime driving?
To reduce glare, adjust your rearview mirror to its nighttime setting. Additionally, you can dim the lights on your dashboard and avoid looking directly into the headlights of vehicles behind you.
Remember that using mirrors while driving effectively is a fundamental aspect of safe driving.
Now, after knowing the driving tips and the necessity of mirrors in the vehicle, you must also ensure its proper adjustment, in order to make efficient use of it!
Regular mirror checks and proper adjustments help you maintain situational awareness, avoid blind spots, and make informed decisions on the road, contributing to safer and more confident driving.
