How to Protect Yourself Against Blind Spots While Driving

Having a blind spot while you drive is pretty inevitable. It can be a real problem since there may be a car right on your side and you won't know it is there. This can lead to an accident when you switch lanes because it looks clear, but it really isn't. Luckily for you, there are two options for you to aid in blind spot detection. First, you can buy a blind spot mirror. The other option is adjusting your mirrors to encompassing your entire field of view. Here is how you can help yourself against blind spots.

Step 1: Buy a Blind Spot Mirror

This can be your first option. A blind spot mirror is just that. A mirror that enables you to see your blind spot with clarity. This is not a substitute for looking over your shoulder, but it is a good addition to your car. There are several types of blind spot mirrors. There is a large one that goes on top of your side view mirror that is more like an oval. There is another one that is a circular mirror that actually goes on the surface of your side view mirror. Whichever one you pick is up to personal preference. The blind view mirrors that physically are on the surface are usually about three inches or so, and literally stick onto the mirror.

Step 2: Adjust Your Rear View Mirror

If you don't want to get a blind spot mirror, you can instead adjust your mirrors in a way to eliminate your blind spot. The first mirror to adjust would be your rear view center mirror in your car. To do so, make sure your car seat is in the spot you like. You should not move the seat afterwards, since you would then have to readjust all the mirrors you are about to set. Once it is set, look straight ahead, and then look at the mirror without moving your head. Adjust the mirror above so you can see the entire windshield in the back. 

Step 3: Adjust Your Side View Mirrors

The next step is to adjust your other two mirrors, the side view mirrors. You will need another person to help you set this mirror. Starting on your left side of the car, position the second person about ten feet behind your car, and then simulating they are in the lane to your left. When you look in your mirror, the person should be barely in sight. Now, adjust your mirror as far as possible without losing the person in the mirror. When all is said and done, you should be able to see the person in both the rear view mirror and the side view mirror. They will overlap, and that is a good check to make sure you have the entire field of view covered. You must then repeat this process on the right side to complete it.

This is how you can adjust your mirrors to eliminate your blind spot while driving.