When should you check your mirrors while driving?

Checking your mirrors regularly, and particularly before changing lanes, is essential for safe driving. This practice allows you to maintain awareness of your surroundings, including other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians that may not be visible in your direct line of sight. It ensures you can make informed decisions based on the current traffic conditions, which is vital for preventing accidents.

Regular mirror checks help establish a comprehensive understanding of what’s happening around your vehicle, not just immediately ahead. When you are preparing to change lanes, it becomes particularly important to check your mirrors to confirm that the space is clear and that it is safe to move over. This habit contributes to defensive driving, enhancing your overall road safety and that of others.

Other answers suggest less effective practices, like limiting mirror checks to specific moments or time intervals, which do not provide the necessary awareness needed for safe driving dynamics.