Car mirrors are an important safety feature but they're often taken for granted or not used correctly which can lead to car accidents. In this article, we’ll discuss five of the most common car mirror mistakes that people make and explain why they are so dangerous.
Not Keeping the Mirrors Clean
One of the most common car mirror mistakes is not keeping the mirrors clean. This may seem like a minor mistake, but it can actually have serious consequences. Dirty mirrors can significantly reduce your visibility while driving, which increases the risk of an auto accident. Even if you don't have time to clean your mirrors before every drive, make sure to give them a good cleaning at least once a week.
Not Bothering to Adjust the Mirrors
Another common mistake is not bothering to adjust the mirrors at all. Many people just assume that the factory settings are good enough and never bother to change them. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Depending on your height and seating position, you may need to adjust your mirrors quite a bit in order to get a clear view of what's behind you. Not doing so can put you and other drivers at risk.
Adjusting the Mirrors Improperly
If you do take the time to adjust your mirrors, it's important that you do it properly. When adjusting your side view mirrors, place your head against the left side of the window and position the mirror so you can just barely see the side of your car in it. For your rearview mirror, tilt it up or down until you have a clear view of the road behind you.
Not Fixing Broken Mirrors
If one of your mirrors is cracked or otherwise damaged, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. A broken mirror will decrease your visibility, increasing the risk of incurring an accident. If you notice any damage to your mirrors, be sure to have them fixed as soon as possible by a qualified technician.
Installing Substandard Mirrors
You might be tempted to buy cheap replacement mirrors but this is not a good idea. Cheap mirrors are more likely to break and can also impair your vision if they're made with inferior materials that distort light instead of reflecting it properly. It's worth spending a little extra money to get high-quality mirrors that will last and offer a clear vision.
Having well-functioning car mirrors and using them right can mean all the difference when it comes to avoiding a St. Louis car accident.
St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured in a St. Louis auto accident our attorneys can help. Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4242 or click here to schedule a free case evaluation.
Not Keeping the Mirrors Clean
One of the most common car mirror mistakes is not keeping the mirrors clean. This may seem like a minor mistake, but it can actually have serious consequences. Dirty mirrors can significantly reduce your visibility while driving, which increases the risk of an auto accident. Even if you don't have time to clean your mirrors before every drive, make sure to give them a good cleaning at least once a week.
Not Bothering to Adjust the Mirrors
Another common mistake is not bothering to adjust the mirrors at all. Many people just assume that the factory settings are good enough and never bother to change them. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Depending on your height and seating position, you may need to adjust your mirrors quite a bit in order to get a clear view of what's behind you. Not doing so can put you and other drivers at risk.
Adjusting the Mirrors Improperly
If you do take the time to adjust your mirrors, it's important that you do it properly. When adjusting your side view mirrors, place your head against the left side of the window and position the mirror so you can just barely see the side of your car in it. For your rearview mirror, tilt it up or down until you have a clear view of the road behind you.
Not Fixing Broken Mirrors
If one of your mirrors is cracked or otherwise damaged, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. A broken mirror will decrease your visibility, increasing the risk of incurring an accident. If you notice any damage to your mirrors, be sure to have them fixed as soon as possible by a qualified technician.
Installing Substandard Mirrors
You might be tempted to buy cheap replacement mirrors but this is not a good idea. Cheap mirrors are more likely to break and can also impair your vision if they're made with inferior materials that distort light instead of reflecting it properly. It's worth spending a little extra money to get high-quality mirrors that will last and offer a clear vision.
Having well-functioning car mirrors and using them right can mean all the difference when it comes to avoiding a St. Louis car accident.
St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured in a St. Louis auto accident our attorneys can help. Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4242 or click here to schedule a free case evaluation.