How to Check Blind Spots While Driving?
3 Answers
Here is the relevant introduction on how to check blind spots while driving: 1. Special blind spots: Avoid discontinuous lane changes and stay vigilant. When making right or left turns, especially with sharp turning angles or consecutive lane changes (two or more times), it becomes difficult to see oncoming vehicles in the lane after the turn, creating a 'blind spot.' This situation is more likely to occur on wider highways. 2. A-pillar blind spots: Slow down and check frequently to avoid them. Most cars have three pillars on each side, with the slanted pillars on either side of the front windshield referred to as A-pillars. When turning or entering a curve, the driver's view is partially obstructed, creating a visual blind spot. 3. Inner wheel difference blind spots: Be cautious of pedestrians at street corners and increase the turning radius. The inner wheel difference refers to the difference between the front and rear inner wheels when a vehicle turns. This area is a blind spot for drivers. For longer vehicles like trucks or buses, even after the front has turned, the rear may not have fully completed the turn, making the 'inner-outer wheel difference' blind spot a 'death zone.' 4. Overtaking blind spots: When overtaking, watch the front of the vehicle; when meeting oncoming traffic, watch the rear. Whether overtaking or encountering oncoming vehicles, drivers often struggle to see the full situation of the vehicle ahead or oncoming traffic, especially with larger vehicles like buses, where the overtaking blind spot is more significant.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I believe blind spot issues require habit formation. Always check the side lane by glancing at the rearview mirror before changing lanes, but the most crucial step is turning your head to scan the B-pillar direction. Walk around the car before getting in, especially checking the rear and wheel areas—sometimes kids playing there are completely invisible. Adjust side mirrors to just show your door handles, never angled toward your face. Extra caution is needed in rain or fog; clean windows help reduce blind zones. Remember 'look more, drive slower'—reduced speed buys reaction time for emergencies. Stick to these habits for a month, and handling blind spots will become instinctive.
When I first got my driver's license, I was most afraid of changing lanes. My instructor taught me a practical trick: stick small round mirrors on the left and right rearview mirrors to see the area next to the tires. Before starting, always adjust the seat and mirrors to maximize visibility. At red lights, don't just play with your phone—observe the movements of pedestrians and electric bikes around you. When reversing, don't rely solely on the backup camera; looking back through the rear window is more reliable. Slow down when exiting parking lots, as some electric bikes can suddenly dart out and easily enter blind spots. Be extra cautious when driving on dimly lit roads at night—rolling down the window to listen for sounds is better than being sealed inside the car.
