Solving the Blind Spot in the Car: Side Mirror Adjustments

Some of the most serious, yet preventable auto accidents occur because of blind spots in side mirrors while driving. Earlier this week, we posted an article about compensating for the naturally occurring blind spot in your eye, by turning your head to ensure you view everything.

A fix has been found for side mirrors, as well, by an engineer named George Platter. Platter has presented method at the prestigious Society of Automotive Engineers  and is backed by the National Safety Council (NSC). To their surprise, the NSC tested Platter’s theory and found that it really works. So, here’s how it works:

  1. Place your head against the driver’s side window. Turn the mirror so that you can see the side of your car.
  2. Move to the center of the vehicle and turn the passenger side mirror so you can see the side of your car.
  3. That's it. You’re not going to see your car in either side mirror—it’s okay.

When a car leaves your line of vision in the rearview mirror, it will show up instantly in either of your side mirrors now. You won’t have a blind spot, so you won’t have to wonder where that car behind you has gone. More importantly, cars will instantly show up in your side mirrors. All three mirrors work in harmony with one another, and the blind spot has been eliminated!

Give this a try and let us know what you think!