How frequently should you check your mirrors while driving?

Checking your mirrors every 5-8 seconds is essential for maintaining situational awareness while driving. This frequent checking allows a driver to stay informed about their surroundings, including the positions of other vehicles, potential hazards, and any changes in traffic flow. By regularly monitoring mirrors, drivers can react promptly to any unsafe situations, enhancing both their safety and that of others on the road.

In particular environments, such as busy roads or areas with high pedestrian activity, this practice becomes even more crucial. Regularly checking mirrors facilitates safe maneuvers like lane changes and turns, as it ensures that the driver is aware of the distance and speed of surrounding vehicles. It also helps in anticipating actions of other road users, reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Some options suggest checking mirrors only with specific actions or under particular conditions, which could lead to gaps in awareness and increase the risk of missing important changes in the driving environment. Consistent mirror checks are a proactive safety measure that should be part of every driver's routine, regardless of traffic conditions or planned maneuvers.