How to Check the Rearview Mirror When Changing Lanes to the Right?
3 Answers
When you see a car approaching from behind in the right lane through the rearview mirror, you should observe the position of the following car in the right rearview mirror while assessing its speed. If only a part of the following car's front is visible in the rearview mirror, it indicates that your car is very close to the following car. In this case, you should delay changing lanes to avoid a rear-end collision. If the entire front of the following car is visible in the rearview mirror, it means your car is at least five to six meters away from the following car. At this point, you can increase your speed and change lanes to the right.
When changing lanes to the right, I always glance at the right-side mirror first to check if any vehicles are approaching rapidly from behind or if there are other cars nearby. Then, I activate the right turn signal to inform following drivers of my intention, followed by a quick shoulder check to confirm there are no bicycles, motorcycles, or cars too close in the blind spot. Judging a safe distance is crucial—if a vehicle is approaching fast, I’ll slow down and let it pass before changing lanes. Throughout the maneuver, I maintain steady speed and make smooth turns without sudden swerving. During daily driving, I regularly adjust my mirrors to show just a sliver of my own car body, minimizing blind spots. In rainy or nighttime conditions with poor visibility, I take extra caution by waiting a few more seconds to confirm safety. These habits have kept me accident-free for 10 years.
Changing lanes to the right, I find checking the rearview mirror super easy: First, casually glance at the right mirror to see if any cars are too close behind, but stay alert for blind spots—I almost got hit by an electric scooter last time. After turning on the signal, I'll peek at the mirror and blind spot again to ensure there's enough space, then gently steer to change lanes. Buddy, rearview mirrors have limitations—don’t rely on them entirely. I’ve made it a habit to turn my head for a quick check every time I drive, especially watching for riders in shared lanes on city streets. At high speeds, judge distances faster—no hesitation. Adjusting the mirror position also has tricks; for example, I always tilt it slightly to cover more of the side. A few more practices, and it’ll feel smooth.
