How often should you check your mirrors while driving?

Checking your mirrors every 5-10 seconds is a critical practice for safe driving. This frequency ensures that you maintain awareness of your surroundings, including the positions and movements of other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential hazards. Regularly using your mirrors allows you to react promptly to any changes in traffic conditions, which is essential for preventing accidents.

By checking your mirrors this often, you establish a good habit that contributes to a proactive driving approach. It aids in evaluating blind spots and ensures that you are aware of vehicles that may be approaching from behind or the sides. This practice is particularly important in busy traffic situations or when preparing to make a maneuver, such as a lane change or turn.

In contrast, longer intervals between mirror checks would reduce your situational awareness and could hinder your ability to respond quickly to changing circumstances on the road. Relying solely on mirrors when changing lanes can lead to dangerous situations, as the road environment can shift rapidly, making it essential to check mirrors frequently, rather than just at specific times.