Texas Defensive Driving Written Practice Test

How often should drivers check their mirrors?

1. Every 2 to 4 seconds

2. Every 5 to 8 seconds

3. Every 10 to 15 seconds

4. Only when changing lanes

The correct answer is: Every 5 to 8 seconds

The recommended frequency for checking mirrors is every 5 to 8 seconds. This practice helps ensure that drivers maintain awareness of their surroundings and can respond to any potential hazards or changes in traffic conditions. Regularly checking mirrors allows drivers to monitor the positions and movements of other vehicles, identify blind spots, and make informed decisions while driving. This interval strikes a balance between remaining aware of the environment and not being overly distracted from the road ahead. In contrast, checking mirrors every 2 to 4 seconds may lead to excessive distraction from the driving task, while an interval of 10 to 15 seconds can result in a lack of awareness of surrounding vehicles and situations, which could increase the risk of accidents. Limiting mirror checks to only when changing lanes neglects the importance of continuous situational awareness and can lead to dangerous oversights. Thus, checking mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds is a crucial habit for safe driving.