How often should you check your mirrors while driving?

The recommended practice is to check your mirrors regularly and before changing lanes or turning because this habit significantly enhances your awareness of the surrounding traffic environment. Regular mirror checks provide crucial information about the positions and movements of other vehicles, helping to avoid potential collisions and ensuring safer driving.

By maintaining a routine of checking mirrors frequently, you can spot potential hazards that might be in your blind spots or track the behavior of vehicles around you, particularly when preparing to maneuver. This approach promotes proactive decision-making and supports better reaction times to sudden changes in traffic conditions.

In contrast, only checking mirrors when changing lanes neglects the continuous nature of traffic, where vehicles can change positions unexpectedly. Relying solely on an initial check at the beginning of a trip is insufficient, as traffic dynamics can change rapidly. Additionally, checking mirrors every time you stop at a light would not encompass the entirety of driving scenarios, as there are plenty of other situations—such as turning or merging—where constant vigilance is essential for safety. Thus, regular and strategic mirror checking is the best practice for maintaining situational awareness while driving.