Q&A for How to Use the Rear View Mirror

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  • Question
    What angle should the side mirrors sit at?
    Simon Miyerov
    Driving Instructor
    Simon Miyerov is the President and Driving Instructor for Drive Rite Academy, a driving academy based out of New York City. Simon has over 8 years of driving instruction experience. His mission is to ensure the safety of everyday drivers and continue to make New York a safer and efficient driving environment.
    Driving Instructor
    Expert Answer
    For the side mirrors, I recommend adjusting it from your natural seated position until you can see the tip of one door handle on the left side and both door handles on the right side. You should be able to see the full view of the street.
  • Question
    Is it illegal to have anything on your rearview mirror?
    Simon Miyerov
    Driving Instructor
    Simon Miyerov is the President and Driving Instructor for Drive Rite Academy, a driving academy based out of New York City. Simon has over 8 years of driving instruction experience. His mission is to ensure the safety of everyday drivers and continue to make New York a safer and efficient driving environment.
    Driving Instructor
    Expert Answer
    It totally depends on the laws where you live. This kind of thing is going to be different from state to state. However, I would generally recommend keeping your windshield totally clear, though. Even if it's legal, it isn't necessarily a good idea.
  • Question
    What should I be able to see in my rear view?
    Simon Miyerov
    Driving Instructor
    Simon Miyerov is the President and Driving Instructor for Drive Rite Academy, a driving academy based out of New York City. Simon has over 8 years of driving instruction experience. His mission is to ensure the safety of everyday drivers and continue to make New York a safer and efficient driving environment.
    Driving Instructor
    Expert Answer
    You should be able to see everything behind you through the rear windshield. You should be able to just move your eyes and see everything in the mirror without moving your head. If you can do that, your rearview is in the right place.
  • Question
    Are objects in the rear-view mirror closer than they appear?
    Community Answer
    This is the case for the passenger side-view mirror but not the center rear-view window. There should even be a warning on your side-view mirror as a reminder of this fact.
  • Question
    Can the rear view be used to view the interior of my car?
    Community Answer
    It can, but it's main purpose is to see what happens behind your car. When you adjust the mirror, you should focus on your back window and not the interior of your car.
  • Question
    How long should it take to look in the rear view mirror and then back to the normal driving view?
    Community Answer
    A glance of 1-2 seconds is sufficient. If you're keeping your eyes on your rearview mirror for more than 3-4 seconds though, you're in danger of hitting something ahead of you.
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