Book Now

A blind spot is anywhere around your car where your mirror cannot pick up. Most of the time, students think that if they’re checking the mirror, they do not need to check the blind spot, and that’s where they go wrong. 

So, when you’re enrolled in a driving school some instructors will teach you how to check blind spots when driving so you are safe when on the road.

The blind spot is very critical when you’re driving and when you’re taking your road test.

How to Check Blind Spots

Checking your blind spots involves looking in the mirror and then over your shoulder. It’s that easy. Also, check the view out the window, and ensure no obstructions on the road.

Do not turn all around while checking the blind spot. This is because you want your entire focus to be on the direction where your car is headed to.

It won’t be long until it becomes natural to include it in your everyday observation practice.

Moving Off

How to Check Blind Spots When Driving

Source: Pixabay

You should look in every direction before stepping off the road. As part of your driver’s education, you will learn how to maneuver in a clockwise direction. However, you need to check out:

After an Emergency Halt

Before suddenly stopping, you won’t always have the opportunity to double-check your rearview mirror. 

As a result, before you start driving again, you must ensure that your blind spots and mirrors are checked thoroughly.

Getting Back On the Road After Being Stuck In Traffic


where are your blind spots in a car

Source: Pixabay

Before going forward in traffic, you must double-check all three mirrors. In this situation, you don’t need to peek over your shoulder into your blind areas. 

However, you should be aware of bicyclists or motorcyclists who could have come up beside you while you were stopped and pay attention to their presence.

At Junctions

When approaching intersections, the pillars on each side of your windscreen will obscure your view.

Therefore, you’ll need to:

When in Motion

When you’re behind the wheel, it’s best to keep your head facing in front. If you turn your head too frequently, it might throw off your lane alignment. 

Because of this, there are mirrors so you can maintain a general watch on what’s happening behind you with a fast glance.

However, a simple glance in the mirror isn’t always sufficient. When switching lanes or another vehicle is merging in your lane, you should check your blind spot by looking in your mirrors and over your shoulder in the direction that is relevant to the situation.

Note that:

That should take up the whole region behind you, allowing you to switch lanes without preventing anyone from securely.

What are the Blind Spots While Driving?

How to Check Blind Spots When Driving

Source: Pixabay

Your mirrors don’t quite reach some areas, though they display most of what’s happening behind you. 

Your vehicle can also obscure some portions of the road from view. These sections are the ones we call blind spots.

Every automobile has two primary blind spots, even though their dimensions change based on its make, model, and size.

When Is the Best Time to Check Blind Spots?

You should constantly be aware of what’s happening around you when you’re behind the wheel. In most cases, you should be able to accomplish this by focusing on the roadway before you and often checking your mirrors.

Nevertheless, there are certain circumstances in which it is essential to swivel your head and check if there is anything in the areas you can’t see. These include:

It is not enough to stare in your mirrors and hope for the best while driving on multi-lane highways since other drivers may be changing lanes behind you. 

You have to make sure that you are not preventing anyone from entering the lane that you are in. If that’s the case, you need to adjust your speed or switch lanes to account for the situation.

How to Check Blind Spots When Driving

Source: Unsplash

Can you lean forward to check the blind spot?

Yes, leaning forward slightly while driving can be an effective technique to check your blind spot. When you lean forward, you can increase your field of vision and get a better view of the areas obstructed by the vehicle’s structure or blind spots.

However, it’s important to note that leaning forward alone may not provide a comprehensive view of the blind spot. It should be used with proper mirror usage and shoulder checks for a thorough assessment of your surroundings before changing lanes or maneuvers.

Do you have to check your blind spot every time you turn?

Yes, it is essential to check your blind spot every time you intend to turn or change lanes while driving. Checking your blind spot is crucial in ensuring the safety of yourself and others on the road.

How many times should you check your blind spots?

To maintain situational awareness while driving in traffic, it is important to check your mirrors regularly. Make a habit of glancing at your mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds to stay informed about the surrounding vehicles.

Additionally, ensure you check your mirrors before braking or slowing down to understand the traffic behind you clearly. When preparing for turns or lane changes, always check your mirrors and blind spots beforehand to assess potential risks or obstacles.

Furthermore, when transitioning into or out of the curb lane, check your mirrors and blind spot for a smooth and safe maneuver. Regularly monitoring your mirrors and diligently checking blind spots will help you stay informed, anticipate potential hazards, and make informed decisions on the road.

Final Word

Although sometimes you might be tempted to turn while checking your blind spots, this should not be the case. 

You want to stay focused on the road to avoid accidents. Therefore, glance at your side mirror and over your shoulder while checking blind spots.

Safe driving!