print versionDrivers turn a blind eye to mirror safety
October 2006
Masterlease has warned that thousands of accidents could be prevented each year if drivers adjusted their mirrors correctly, following a survey of over 1,700 UK drivers.
The study found that 80 per cent of drivers had their mirrors aligned incorrectly, while almost 15,000 UK motorists were involved in collisions last year as a result of vision being affected, according to the latest DfT Road Casualties Report.
Recent reports have blamed poor car design for restricted views, but Masterlease says most problems with blind spots would be eradicated if mirrors were correctly adjusted.
Gavin Jones, risk management expert from Masterlease, said the accidents could be easily prevented and urged fleet managers to ensure drivers have their mirrors lined up correctly.
He said: “The mirrors are there for a very good reason but, according to our study, drivers are not making the best use of them and this is leading to unnecessary accidents. When a driver is concentrating on the road ahead, it is all too easy to lose track of cars that may be overtaking or changing lanes to the rear, especially if mirrors are not in the right place.
“It seems most drivers have forgotten how to adjust their mirrors correctly, or were never shown in the first place – employers and fleet operators should make sure drivers know how to do this. Only a sliver of the car should be visible in the side mirrors, which should increase the visibility of vehicles in adjacent lanes.
“The best way to test if mirrors are lined up correctly is to get a friend to walk around the car – they should be visible in at least one of the mirrors at all times.
“The issue is particularly serious when different people share the same car and don’t bother to check the mirrors properly before driving. It only takes a minute but could save hours of hassle, and possibly injury, in the event of an accident.”
Step by step guide to adjusting your side mirrors
1. Move your driver's side view mirror outward
Roll up the window and press your head against the glass. Adjust the mirror so that you can just see the edge of the car. Remember, you should be looking back down the lane beside your driver's side, not at the side of your car.
2. Move your passenger's side view mirror outward
Place your head in the centre of the car (directly behind the inside mirror mount) and adjust the outside mirror so that you can just see the edge of the car.
3. Check to see what your mirrors show
When you're in your normal driving position, you won't be able to see the sides of the car but will be able to see other vehicles in the adjacent lanes.
4. Ask a friend to walk around the back of your car
As your friend circles your car, make sure that he can be seen from every angle. As he moves from your rear view mirror to go to your passenger mirror, you should be able to see him at all times. Likewise, there should be no interruptions in continuity as your friend travels from a rear view to a driver's side view in your mirrors. You haven't got it right yet until all blind spots behind you are removed!
