How frequently should mirrors be checked during driving?

The recommendation to check mirrors regularly and before any changes in speed or direction is grounded in the need for situational awareness. Continuous awareness of surrounding vehicles and road users is crucial for safe driving. Regular checks enable a driver to anticipate potential hazards and make informed decisions, particularly when planning to change lanes, turn, or adjust speed.

This practice helps in detecting vehicles in blind spots and understanding the overall traffic flow around the vehicle. By ensuring that mirrors are checked consistently, drivers maintain an up-to-date understanding of their environment, which is a fundamental aspect of defensive driving.

Options suggesting checking mirrors only during specific events, such as changing lanes, do not encourage the level of awareness required for safe driving. Situations can change rapidly, and it's essential to be observant at all times rather than limiting mirror checks to certain moments. The choice advocating for a time-based interval, like every 10 minutes, also falls short, as it does not account for the dynamic nature of driving scenarios where frequent adjustments may be necessary due to traffic conditions.