Check your seat position:

Before you even think about adjusting your mirrors, make sure the driver’s seat is in a position that’s comfortable, with at least 25cm between your chest and the steering wheel.  Your arms should be in a relaxed, slightly bent position when your hands are on the steering wheel.

Look behind you:

Your centre rear-view mirror, is the first line of defence in reducing blind spots. Still sitting in the driver’s seat, look into your rear-view mirror. The back window of your car should be entirely visible and well-framed by the mirror. If not, adjust the mirror until it is. It’s also worth noting there should be no items in the car that obstruct your rear view.

Focus on side-mirrors:

Having your side-mirrors set too far inwards can mean that you’re seeing too much of your car and not enough of what is happening around you.

Starting first with the driver’s side mirror, make sure the handle of the car’s rear door is positioned in the bottom left corner of the mirror. For the passenger side mirror, it should be the bottom right corner.

Have someone walk down each side of the car as if they are a passing vehicle to ensure you can see them all the way down to the point where you can turn and see them over your shoulder. If you lose sight of them at any point make a small adjustment to bring them into view.

While setting up your car correctly will help minimise those pesky blind spots, you may never get rid of all of them altogether, depending on the car you drive. Always check your mirrors thoroughly and check over your shoulder before turning or changing lanes.

If you’ve just bought a new car, or would like some guidance from an expert on how to minimise blind spots and ensure your vehicle is custom-fit to you, RAA can help out at the next free CarFit session. We’ll be heading to Mt Gambier, Yankalilla, Mile End and the Barossa Valley over the next few months.