How often should you check your rearview mirror while driving?

Checking the rearview mirror every 5-10 seconds is crucial for maintaining awareness of your surroundings while driving. This frequent check helps you stay informed about the behavior of vehicles behind you, as well as any potential hazards that may arise. By consistently monitoring traffic conditions, you can make more informed decisions about when to change lanes, adjust your speed, or prepare for any necessary stops.

Regularly checking your rearview mirror also enhances your ability to anticipate and react to the actions of other drivers. For instance, if a vehicle is tailgating, you may want to adjust your speed or change lanes to avoid a potential collision. The 5-10 second interval allows you to stay in touch with what's happening behind you without becoming overly distracted from the road ahead. This practice is part of defensive driving, which emphasizes proactive measures to enhance safety on the roads.