How often should you check your mirrors while driving?

Checking your mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds under normal driving conditions is a best practice for maintaining awareness of your surroundings while driving. This frequency allows you to monitor traffic in adjacent lanes, observe any vehicles approaching from behind, and remain alert to pedestrians or other potential hazards that may enter your path.

Staying regularly attuned to your environment can help you make informed decisions about lane changes, merges, or adjusting your speed. Regular mirror checks are especially crucial in larger vehicles, where blind spots can obscure your visibility. A 5 to 8-second interval strikes a balance, ensuring that you are not so distracted by frequent checking that it compromises your overall focus on the road ahead.

Longer intervals might leave you unaware of developments around you, increasing the risk of accidents, whereas shorter intervals may contribute to unnecessary distraction. Thus, adopting this rhythm enhances both your safety and the safety of others on the road.