How often should a driver check their mirrors while driving?

A driver should check their mirrors regularly to maintain awareness of their surroundings and ensure safe driving. The most effective frequency for checking mirrors is every 5-6 seconds. This timing allows drivers to stay updated on vehicles that may be approaching from behind, changes in traffic conditions, or pedestrians and cyclists in close proximity.

While checking mirrors too frequently can become distracting and lead to reduced focus on the road ahead, waiting too long between checks may result in missing critical information about other road users. The recommended interval strikes a balance between vigilance and maintaining attention to the primary driving task. Incorporating mirror checks into routine driving habits promotes safety and helps to anticipate and respond to potential hazards effectively.