How to Properly Adjust Mirrors to Eliminate Blind Spots
When it comes to safe driving, one of the most important things to keep in mind is eliminating blind spots. These are areas around the vehicle that cannot be seen through the mirrors, making it difficult to spot other vehicles or objects on the road. This can greatly increase the risk of accidents and make it dangerous for both the driver and others on the road. However, there is a simple solution to this problem – properly adjusting your mirrors. In this article, we will discuss how to properly adjust mirrors to eliminate blind spots, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.
Understanding Blind Spots
Before we talk about adjusting mirrors, it is important to understand what blind spots are and why they are dangerous. Blind spots are areas that cannot be seen through the mirrors, typically located on the sides and rear of the vehicle. These spots are created by the design of the car and can vary from vehicle to vehicle. Blind spots can be particularly dangerous when changing lanes or merging onto a highway, as they may hide other vehicles from your view. This is why proper mirror adjustment is crucial in ensuring safe driving.
Adjusting Side Mirrors
The Traditional Method
The most common method of adjusting side mirrors involves sitting in the driver’s seat and leaning your head to the left until it touches the window. Next, adjust the left mirror so that you can just see the side of your car. Then, lean to the right until your head is above the center console and adjust the right mirror in the same manner. This traditional method has been taught for years, but it does not provide the best view.
The New Method
A better way to adjust your side mirrors is by using the “overlap method.” This method requires the driver to sit in the normal driving position and adjust the left mirror so that you can just barely see the edge of the car. Next, lean to the left until your head is in line with the center of the car and adjust the mirror slightly further. Repeat this process for the right mirror. This method allows for a wider field of vision, reducing or even eliminating the blind spots on the sides of the vehicle.
Adjusting Rearview Mirror
The rearview mirror provides a different view than the side mirrors and should be adjusted accordingly. Position the mirror so that you can see the entire rear window, without any parts of your own vehicle obstructing the view. This will provide a clear view of the area behind the vehicle, reducing blind spots and making it easier to judge the distance of other vehicles.
Additional Tips for Eliminating Blind Spots
While adjusting your mirrors is the key to eliminating blind spots, there are a few other tips that can help keep you safe on the road.
Regularly Check Your Mirrors
It is important to periodically check your mirrors throughout your drive, especially before changing lanes or making turns. This will help maintain proper mirror positioning and ensure that blind spots have not reappeared due to vibration or movement.
Use Your Head and Neck
Even with properly adjusted mirrors, it is important to still physically check over your shoulder before changing lanes. This is an extra precaution that can help you spot any vehicles or objects that may still be in your blind spots.
Consider Additional Mirrors
If you have a vehicle with particularly large blind spots, you may want to consider installing additional wide-angle or convex mirrors. These can provide a wider range of vision and help reduce the size of your blind spots.
Conclusion
Driving without blind spots can greatly increase the safety and enjoyment of your driving experience. By properly adjusting your mirrors using the overlap method and following these additional tips, you can significantly reduce the blind spots on your vehicle and drive with confidence. Remember to regularly check your mirrors and physically look over your shoulder for added safety. Following these simple tips will help make every drive a safer one.
