How often should you check your mirrors while driving?

Checking your mirrors periodically and before making lane changes is essential for safe driving. This practice allows you to maintain awareness of your surroundings and the positions of other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential hazards. Regular mirror checks help you anticipate movements of other drivers and can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

By routinely checking your mirrors, you are more likely to spot vehicles in your blind spots or other emerging dangers that may not be immediately visible. Additionally, before changing lanes, confirming that the space is clear enhances your safety as it allows you to make informed decisions before maneuvering your vehicle. This proactive approach to monitoring your environment is a critical component of defensive driving.

Other approaches, such as checking mirrors only at intersections or just in heavy traffic, would not provide the comprehensive awareness needed while driving. Limiting mirror checks to specific situations can increase risks and lead to potential hazards on the road.