How often should a driver check their mirrors?

A driver should check their mirrors every 5-8 seconds to maintain situational awareness while on the road. This frequent checking helps the driver stay aware of surrounding traffic and potential hazards. By visually scanning the mirrors consistently, a driver can monitor the movements of other vehicles, anticipate traffic flow changes, and make informed decisions about speed and lane positioning.

Frequent mirror checks also lower the risk of collisions by ensuring that a driver is aware of any vehicles that may be in blind spots or approaching from behind. This practice is essential for maintaining safety and making timely adjustments to driving behavior as needed.

In contrast, relying on less frequent mirror checks could mean missing important changes in traffic conditions, potentially leading to dangerous situations. Additionally, checking mirrors only when changing lanes does not adequately account for ongoing traffic dynamics and could increase the likelihood of accidents. Regularly checking mirrors promotes defensive driving and helps to keep both the driver and others on the road safer.