Using Car Mirrors
Mirrors allow you to observe what is happening around your car.
Interior Mirror
This is usually a flat mirror. The image reflected in such mirrors isn't distorted, which makes it easier to judge the speed and distance of following traffic.Exterior Mirror
These are convex mirrors, which are made using curved glass. Convex mirrors give a wider field of vision, however they make judging the speed and position of following traffic more difficult. Vehicles will appear closer than they actually are.Nearside and Offside
The nearside mirror is the one nearest the kerb, on the left-hand side of the car. The offside mirror is the one on the right-hand side.Blind Spot This is an area around your car that cannot be seen in your mirrors. The most dangerous of these are the blind spots behind your left and right shoulders, the area obscured by the bodywork of the car when you look in your side mirrors.To counter these blind spots you should look over your right and left shoulders to observe the view through the side windows. Sometimes you will need to check a blind spot whilst on the move such as when changing lanes on a dual-carriageway. To do this glance quickly to the left or right. There is no need to turn and look right behind, as this is dangerous. |
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Using Your Mirrors
Regular use of your mirrors is an essential part of safe driving. You need to be aware of what is happening around you at all times.Which mirrors you use will depend on the situation and manoeuvre you intend to carry out. Normally you should use the interior mirror first followed by the exterior mirrors.
Before carrying out any manoeuvre always check your mirrors. This includes:
- moving off - check all mirrors and look over your right shoulder to check the blind spot.
- changing lanes - check all mirrors and either the left or right blind spot depending on your direction.
- overtaking - check your mirrors paying special attention to the offside mirror to make sure no one is about to overtake you.
- turning left or right - check the interior mirror and the nearside mirror when turning left and the offside mirror when turning right.
- Slowing down or stopping - a vehicle following too closely may fail to stop in time when you brake. Check your mirrors in good time so you can lose speed more gently if necessary.
- leaving you car - check your mirrors and blind spot before opening the car door in case a vehicle is passing.
Approaching Hazards
When approaching a hazard you should always check your mirrors, as there is a chance the hazard may force you to slow down or change direction. Hazards include:- junctions
- bends
- pedestrian crossings
- road works
- slow moving vehicles