Ensuring proper mirror usage is crucial for passing a driving test. Failure to do so is among the top three reasons that individuals may not pass. Proper mirror usage involves checking the mirrors while driving, including the left, right, and interior mirrors as applicable. New drivers often make the mistake of not looking correctly, failing to move their necks and instead relying on quick glances in their periphery. Unfortunately, this method of checking mirrors serves minimal benefit, as the view is often blurry, and practical observation is impossible. It is essential to note that if the examiner cannot see proper mirror usage, it will be marked as not checked. A proper check is therefore required.
Failure to check mirrors properly can result in a driver being less likely to notice a vehicle overtaking them on either side. Drivers should aim to check their mirrors before changing speed, direction, or stopping. When checking mirrors, it is crucial to check the interior mirror first, as it provides a true reflection. The exterior mirrors are convex, making everything appear further away than it is.
When changing speed, drivers should read the road ahead to gain more time to make informed decisions. Checking mirrors is essential before changing speed up or down. Drivers must be aware of their surroundings, including what is behind, to both sides, and in front of them. Any speed change must be relevant to the situation at hand.
When changing direction, drivers must also be aware of their surroundings, both behind and in front of them. They should check mirrors in the direction of travel. For example, left mirrors for turning or moving left or middle, right mirrors for turning right.
When stopping, drivers must also be aware of their surroundings, especially behind them. Any reduction in speed must be timed correctly to give the vehicles behind enough time to react to the intended speed reduction leading to a planned stop.
One area that drivers often overlook is when exiting their vehicle. They must check for approaching vehicles and pedestrians before opening their door. This check should also include relevant blind spot checks.
Mirrors come into play whenever a driver reverses. They should use all their mirrors regularly when reversing and be fully aware of their surroundings.
To ensure that they are checking their mirrors properly, drivers should move their eyes around the whole windscreen area when planning and not stare at the fixed area directly above the steering wheel. Every time they see something that will potentially cause them to change speed, direction, or stop, they should check their mirrors. Anticipating what might happen next is also advisable. Drivers should ask themselves if they could stop safely without being rear-ended and if they are always aware of what is happening behind them, how far behind, and what speed is being travelled. If not, they should check more often.
As a rule of thumb, drivers should check their mirrors regularly, around every 10 seconds or more when hazards are present. This practice will become second nature quickly, and the correct observation of mirrors will become a natural extension of safe driving. Drivers should also make a habit of telling themselves what is behind them, such as a red car. If they do not know where the red car went, they are not checking their mirrors enough. It is essential to remember that the red car may be overtaking them.
In conclusion, drivers must practice proper mirror usage to become safer and more proficient drivers. Practicing this skill regularly will eventually make it a natural part of their driving style, allowing them to make informed decisions based on their surroundings.
