In the past, we’ve discussed vehicle safety features such as seat belts, anti-lock brakes, backup cameras, and more. One lesser thought-of safety feature that can be just as important as these others is that of mirrors.
There Are A Variety Of Types Of Mirrors That Can Be Found On An Automobile, Including:
- Rear-view mirror
- Side mirrors
- Towing mirrors
- Wide-angle mirrors
- Power mirrors
Each of these mirrors serves as a safety precaution for drivers so that they are more easily able to view the world around them, and potentially avoid incidents as a result. In many states, having a rear view mirror installed correctly in your vehicle is a law. This mirror allows drivers to see the roadway and traffic that is behind their vehicle without having to turn their heads and look away from the road. When adjusted correctly, drivers should also be able to see the sides of the vehicle in their rear-view mirror. This allows drivers to be aware of potential dangers and attempt to avoid them. In addition to the safety provided while operating a vehicle on roadways, mirrors also allow drivers the ability to park better. Side and rear view mirrors should be adjusted so that they provide a clear line of sight to the rear and sides of a vehicle, which allows drivers to parallel park, back into a space, and exit a parking space.
It may seem like common sense, but it is important for Georgia drivers to fully understand the best way to use mirrors, especially the rear-view mirror. First, the mirrors’ positioning should be adjusted before putting a vehicle into gear and moving. Many people attempt to adjust mirrors while driving down the road, but this can be an extremely dangerous form of distracted driving. Before stopping, turning, switching lanes, or accelerating, a driver should check to make sure that their mirrors are clear of danger. For instance, when you need to change lanes or slow to make a turn, there could be a vehicle directly behind you in the lane you’re in or in the lane you wish to be in. If the driver checks their mirrors and notices this other vehicle prior to taking action, a crash can be avoided. While in traffic, it is helpful to keep an eye on your vehicle’s rear view mirror to make sure that drivers behind you are maintaining a safe distance, just in case you have to stop suddenly. If they are not, your mirrors may give you the opportunity to brace for impact in a fender bender crash.
At Jones & Swanson, we meet victims of serious car accidents every day. After seeing the devastating effects that a crash can have on a person and their family, we are dedicated to preventing these types of occurrences. The first step to avoiding a car accident is to practice the safest driving possible for yourself. Unfortunately, your safe driving is not always enough to prevent a crash. In the event that another driver is not quite as safe as you are, and they cause a crash in which you sustain injuries, you may incur expenses that you’ve never considered before. If these expenses become too much for you, it may be time to consider discussing your case with a personal injury lawyer.
