Summary:
What you learn in driver’s ed might not fully prepare you for the dangers of blind spots. Even with modern blind-spot sensors, manually checking your mirrors and surroundings remains crucial. Blind spots are areas around your vehicle not visible through the side or rearview mirrors, commonly located just behind and to the sides of the car. Structural elements like door pillars and vehicle frames contribute to these zones, increasing collision risks during lane changes or turns.
To avoid blind spots, it’s important to adjust your mirrors correctly. There are two main methods for setting your side mirrors:
- Setting A: Traditional method where you adjust mirrors so the edge of your car is visible in the lower inner corner. This is widely taught and provides familiar visual cues.
- Setting B: Recommended by SAE standards, where the mirrors are pushed further outward to reduce blind spots and create minimal overlap with the rearview mirror’s view. This may feel unfamiliar but offers better coverage.
Rearview mirrors should be tilted to show as much of the rear window as possible without moving your head. Together with side mirrors, this setup should give you a nearly continuous view around your vehicle.
To test proper alignment, observe a car passing you. It should transition smoothly from your rearview to your side mirror, then to your peripheral vision. If it disappears at any point, your mirrors may need adjusting.
Always readjust mirrors after moving your seat or when another driver uses your car. Even with blind-spot sensors, mirror checks and shoulder glances are essential. Technology is helpful but cannot replace attentive driving habits.
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