In recent years, the influx of cars on the roads has been on the rise. According to a 2016 estimate, there are 1.2 billion cars in circulation in the world. This astronomical number represents a 70% increase over the estimate made in 2011.
Such a rise also means a greater number of new drivers, who are adapting to the rules of the road. For such a reason, in this article we will tell you about driver blind spots, what they are and how you can reduce them.
With these guidelines, you will surely be prepared to face the traffic jungle. In addition, you will be able to avoid calamities arising from ignorance of blind spots and overconfidence while driving.
Just remember that, despite the latest technologies to reduce traffic accidents, all cars have blind spots. Relying on mirrors or experience does not always bring good results.
Join us in this brief journey, together with udrive, hoping that the article will help you when driving. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
A lot is said about driver blind spots, but very few actually know what they mean when they mention them. A blind spot, also known as a blind spot, are the places that limit the driver’s field of vision.
From the driver’s seat, the view is restricted due to the parts of the car, and this situation creates zones of risk. Such zones have caused many accidents in recent years.
In addition, another thing to take into account is that rear-view mirrors also have blind spots. But why is this? The blind spots in mirrors arise due to their size, the distance between the driver and the mirror, as well as the inflection of light as it is projected onto the mirror.
A more experienced driver can anticipate these changes. However, for new drivers, the situation requires a lot of experience and specialized driving tutoring.
Below is a diagram depicting the driver’s blind spots:
Something to consider is that a blind spot can hide anything from a motorcyclist to a sizable car. It is undoubtedly worrying, because, when making lane changes or other maneuvers, an accident can occur that leaves injured or even dead.
So, now that we know about blind spots, how can we reduce them? In view of the impending need, and in the quest to lessen traffic accidents, here are 6 tips to reduce blind spots.
A correct seat adjustment will allow you to get a peripheral view of what is going on around you. Therefore, so that you don’t have any mishaps, you should consider the following:
Before starting the vehicle, be sure to clean the mirrors. In the same way, make sure they are not cracked. This should be done without fail, because the mirrors are an important extension of our life.
So much so, that not checking them can be detrimental when embarking on the road, because we would be limiting our field of vision. In short, it is important to have mirrors in perfect condition, so that they provide us with a clear and calibrated view of the road.
When you are already driving, it is of utmost importance that you keep an eye on your mirrors, especially when performing maneuvers such as lane changes. By doing so, you will be preventing a calamity.
As mentioned above, all vehicles have blind spots. Therefore, you need to be aware of them. Also, it is never advisable to put yourself under the blind spot of a larger car.
This way, you will be able to avoid an accident when the other vehicle makes a maneuver.
If you need to park your car, it is necessary to keep an eye on the rear-view mirrors, so as not to collide with another car or surrounding objects. You can also choose to install a reverse sensor.
These sensors have the particularity of helping in the inspection of the available parking space. As their name indicates, they are installed in the rear bumper, in such a way that they send visual and audible signals to prevent accidents.
One of the first things you learn when driving is the function of turn signals. However, it is no wonder. Always use your turn signals every time you make a lane change or other maneuver to prevent you from catching another driver by surprise.
It is your responsibility to use your turn signals. On the other hand, other drivers must also be aware of the changes you make in your car. This way, they will be able to drive without any mishap.
To reduce blind spots, it is important to adjust the mirrors correctly. Keep in mind that there are three types: flat, circular and convex. However, it is important to note that convex mirrors are the most suitable for reducing blind spots when driving.
However, it is important to know how they should be positioned before even starting the car. Therefore, here is how to adjust them to reduce the driver’s blind spots.
When adjusting this mirror properly, you should make sure that the right edge is reflected all the way to the rear of the car. The space that is left free should reflect the lane.
On the other hand, to adjust this mirror you should verify that a small fraction of the rear of the car is reflected. The rest should focus on the lane, so that the rear door and a complete car can be seen.
Now, to adjust the rearview mirror you have to consider the height of your panoramic view, with respect to the rear of your car. That is, you must consider how much of what is behind you you observe with the mirror.
Once this is achieved, you will have to adjust it until you can completely see the rear windshield medallion. Once you’ve done this, you’re ready to hit the road.
If you are afraid of driving, this article might interest you.
After this brief tour, where we learned about “driver blind spots: what they are and how to reduce them“, we can only talk about udrive. There you will find, without a doubt, the most qualified professionals in automobile driving.
Founded in 1984, Ecole de Conduite Omega Driving School is the best option when it comes to road safety and learning. This is due to its commitment to quality teaching and the different services it provides.
With the courses and modules offered, approved by the SAAQ, you will be a great driver. This way, blind spots will not be a problem for you. In addition, you will acquire other useful knowledge when taking the wheel.
If you want to know more about blind spots and how to reduce them, Ecole de Conduite Omega Driving School is your best option in Quebec. So, contact us: it will be a pleasure to help you conquer the road.