Every car has a potential blindspot. There have been several technological advances and installations of state of the art systems in cars in the past few years to prevent the dreaded blindspot. However, at Richard Schwartz and Associates of Mississippi, we understand that not everyone has a new vehicle with this technology, and we found another approach to minimizing a vehicle’s blindspot.

The first step in minimizing a car’s blindspot is identifying where the problem is located. However, the answer is different for every vehicle. It can usually be quickly indentified while you’re driving. The blind spot usually occurs between the rear of the car and the back seat and may extend roughly 12 feet to either side of the vehicle, and into the other lanes on either side of your vehicle.

How do you eliminate the blindspot? Complete elimination of a blindspot is impossible without a camera or other technology. It can, however, be drastically reduced with the use of your side and rearview mirrors.
The majority of drivers usually keep their mirrors in a position which allows them to see a small part of their own vehicle, and the road. To eliminate a blindspot, the mirrors must be drastically adjusted. This process disorients some drivers, but many adjust quickly and appreciate the new scope this adjustment allows them on the road.
To adjust your mirrors simply follow these simple steps:

1. Adjust your left mirror so that your vehicle is only visible in the bottom left corner. The goal is to see outward from the sides of your vehicle, not your vehicle itself.


2. Repeat the process with your right side mirror. Remember, all you want to see of your own vehicle in the mirror is a tiny bit in the bottom right corner.


3. Adjust your rearview mirror so that you’ve eliminated as much of your own vehicle as possible. When looking in the back of your car the goal is to see as much of the roadway as possible, not your own backseat.

Having properly adjusted mirrors with a minimized blindspot can help you prevent accidents on the roadway and can increase your awareness as a driver. At Richard Schwartz and Associates we advocate safety on Mississippi roadways. Adjusting your mirrors is just one of the many ways you can make a difference on the road, for yourself and others.