How to adjust the left and right mirrors?

[DiGraham]

The method for adjusting the left and right mirrors is as follows: When adjusting the left side mirror, the driver should use the horizon as a reference and adjust the vertical angle so that the mirror shows an equal split between sky and ground. Then, adjust the horizontal angle so that the car body occupies one-fourth of the mirror's surface. Note that when adjusting the mirror, the driver's posture should be as it is during driving, and one should not lean closer to the mirror to observe the adjustments. When adjusting the right side mirror, since it is farther from the driver, reduce the space occupied by the sky to one-fourth, with the ground occupying three-fourths. When adjusting the central interior mirror, ensure that the rear window is visible through the mirror to see the situation behind the car.

[LaJasper]

Adjusting the left and right mirrors is actually not difficult. When I first learned to drive, my instructor taught me to first sit properly in the driver's seat with my feet comfortably on the brake pedal to keep my body from tilting. Then, using the buttons or manual lever, slowly adjust the mirrors. The left mirror should show a bit of the rear end of your own car and most of the lane on the right, while the right mirror should similarly cover the rear car and a panoramic view of the lane. The goal is to minimize blind spots, especially to avoid missing motorcycles or bicycles behind you when turning. I often encounter traffic jams in the city, and having the mirrors properly adjusted makes me feel much safer because I can always glance at the surrounding dynamics. I recommend checking them slightly before each drive—don’t rush off to avoid accidents on the road.

[MaciFitz]

As a dad with years of experience driving my kids to school every day, I know safety comes first, and I've developed fixed habits for adjusting the mirrors. Before starting the engine, make sure you're seated firmly and keep the kids from causing distractions. Then, use the mirror controls to adjust slowly: the left mirror should show just a small portion of your car's rear edge while also giving a clear view of the distant road and sidewalk. Adjust the right mirror similarly, avoiding focusing only on your own car to prevent large blind spots that could lead to scrapes in traffic. Remember to test it a few times in the parking lot, and if the kids are shouting in the backseat, stay calm and readjust when you can. Properly adjusted mirrors make night driving safer, reducing glare from headlights and other issues.

[OFelicity]

After driving for over 20 years, I've concluded that the key to adjusting mirrors is eliminating blind spots. Without moving your head from the driver's seat, set the left mirror to just see the rear corner of your car and the outer lane, and similarly for the right mirror but slightly outward to cover the bike lane. I prefer adding a small blind-spot mirror for better results, making lane changes on highways less frantic. Regular checks are also crucial, as road bumps can loosen and misalign mirrors. Safe driving relies on these small details—don't wait for an accident to regret improper adjustments.

[LaGage]

Every day I commute through the city traffic, adjusting the rearview mirrors has become routine. After getting in the car, I first adjust the seat to sit comfortably upright, then fiddle with the mirrors: the left mirror is adjusted until only a small portion of the car body is visible, locking the view on the outer lane and pedestrian movements; the right mirror is similarly adjusted to minimize blind spots, and during traffic jams, I can make slight adjustments during red light intervals. This method allows me to promptly spot cyclists or small vehicles, avoiding multiple close calls. Moreover, when parking, the backup camera assists, and the precise mirror positions enhance the overall sense of control. Everyone might as well practice a few more times to become proficient.