Is it a problem if the rearview mirror folds after hitting someone?
3 Answers
If the rearview mirror hits someone and folds, and the person hit is unharmed, generally there is no need to take responsibility unless injuries appear later and can be proven to be caused by this collision, in which case the responsible party will need to compensate for damages. Most car rearview mirrors can fold, and if the person hit does not fall, there is usually no damage. Below is an introduction to rearview mirrors hitting people: 1. Introduction One: Most of the time, when a rearview mirror collides with a pedestrian and causes injury, it is not directly due to the collision with the mirror but rather because the pedestrian was startled or a non-motorized vehicle failed to avoid the collision in time, leading to a fall. Falls can result in injuries ranging from minor to severe, so never drive away from the scene if you hit a pedestrian or non-motorized vehicle. 2. Introduction Two: If you hit someone, you should immediately get out of the car to check the person's injuries. If the other party needs medical attention, you should first call 120 for rescue and then call the traffic police at 122 to wait for them to determine responsibility. If the injured person needs to be moved, you should first mark the position of the injured and the vehicle before moving them. If the injury is minor, both parties can negotiate compensation for medical expenses.
I've experienced a similar situation where the side mirror accidentally hit a pedestrian while driving, and it folded back with a snap. Don't panic—most cars are designed this way. In the event of a minor collision, the mirror automatically folds to absorb the impact, protecting the pedestrian's legs or shoulders from fractures. This is a safety mechanism, showing the car's proactive approach to preventing harm. However, you must stop immediately to check on the person: ask if they're in pain or injured, don't just focus on the mirror. If the pedestrian has scrapes or bruises, you may need to cover medical expenses or call the police (110) to handle the situation. As for the mirror, try manually or electronically adjusting it back into place—the functionality might still be fine, but the housing or pivot joint could develop cracks or scratches. Failing to replace it promptly increases blind spot risks. When driving, it's advisable to frequently check blind spots and consider installing a 360-degree camera for peace of mind. Regular car washes and lubricating the mirror joints can prevent freezing damage, turning small issues into non-issues and ensuring everyone's safety.
Once when I was reversing too hastily, I brushed against someone, and the side mirror clicked and folded. Fortunately, the person was just startled, and after apologizing, I checked the mirror and found it could automatically return to its original angle. This folding design is meant to avoid hard impacts and minimize damage, especially prioritizing pedestrian protection. However, don’t assume everything’s fine—if the collision is severe, it could burn out the mirror motor or cause a short circuit in the wiring, costing a few hundred to replace. Also, pay attention to the pedestrian’s emotional reaction and liability issues—minor incidents often escalate into disputes and insurance hassles. Now, I’ve developed a habit: slow down when reversing, turn my head to check the full view instead of relying too much on mirrors, and inspect the mirror’s tightness and cleanliness monthly to avoid misjudgment. Maintenance saves effort and ensures peace of mind, preventing accidents.
