How often should you check your mirrors while driving?

Checking your mirrors while driving is essential for maintaining awareness of your surroundings and ensuring safe driving practices. The recommended interval of every 5 seconds strikes a balance between staying aware of nearby vehicles and maintaining focus on the road ahead. This frequency allows drivers to monitor both side and rear traffic while still keeping attention on the primary task of driving.

Mirrors should be checked particularly before changing lanes, merging, or making turns. By doing so every 5 seconds, you can effectively react to any potential hazards or changes in traffic conditions. This practice contributes to overall safety by helping drivers anticipate and respond to the actions of others on the road. Being attuned to your mirrors without over-focusing on them ensures you remain a vigilant and informed driver.