How often should you check your mirrors while driving?

Checking your mirrors about every 5 to 8 seconds while driving is essential for maintaining awareness of your surroundings. This frequent mirror check allows you to be aware of other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential hazards, which is crucial for safe driving. It supports defensive driving by giving you the information needed to anticipate and react to changes in traffic conditions.

This interval strikes a balance between being attentive without becoming overly distracted from the road ahead. Checking mirrors too frequently, like every 3 to 5 seconds, may lead to distractions, while longer intervals, such as once every minute or every 10 to 15 seconds, could leave you unaware of changing situations around you. Regularly checking your mirrors reinforces a proactive approach to driving safety and enhances your ability to respond effectively.