How To Correctly Adjust Your Side Mirrors

Side mirrors play a vital role in safe driving, but adjusting them properly is essential to get the most out of them. Incorrectly adjusted side mirrors can lead to blind spots, reduced visibility, and even accidents. In this article, we will discuss the essential aspects of correctly adjusting your side mirrors to ensure maximum visibility and safety on the road.

1. Eliminate Blind Spots The primary purpose of side mirrors is to eliminate blind spots, which are areas around the vehicle that are not visible to the driver through the windshield. Adjust the side mirrors so that you can see the side of your car and just a slither of the rear bumper in the mirror. This will help you detect vehicles and obstacles that may be hidden in your blind spots.

2. Reduce Glare Bright headlights from oncoming vehicles can be distracting and dangerous, especially at night. To reduce glare, adjust the side mirrors slightly downwards. This will reflect the light from the headlights below your eye level, minimizing the impact on your vision.

3. Proper Distance The side mirrors should be adjusted to provide a clear view of the area behind your vehicle, while also allowing you to see the side of your car. Adjust the mirrors so that the edge of the mirror is just within your peripheral vision. This will help you check your mirrors without having to turn your head too much.

4. Adjust for Highway Driving When driving on highways, it's important to adjust your side mirrors to provide a wider field of view. Move the mirrors outward slightly to increase the visibility of vehicles approaching from behind. This adjustment allows you to see more of the road behind you and react quickly to changing traffic conditions.

5. Check Regularly Side mirrors can become misaligned over time due to bumps or vibrations. It's important to check the adjustment of your side mirrors regularly, especially after long drives or car washes. Make sure that the mirrors are still providing optimal visibility and make adjustments as needed.

Correctly adjusting your side mirrors is a simple but crucial aspect of safe driving. By following these essential steps, you can eliminate blind spots, reduce glare, improve visibility, and enhance your overall driving experience. Remember to check the adjustment of your side mirrors regularly to ensure that they continue to provide optimal visibility and safety on the road.