Introduction
When you drive, you rely on mirrors to see what’s happening around your car. But mirrors don’t show everything. The areas that you cannot see in your mirrors are called blind spots. Knowing where they are — and how to check them — is a key part of safe driving.
What Are Blind Spots?
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A blind spot is the area around your vehicle that you cannot see using your rearview or side mirrors.
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Every vehicle has blind spots — even with properly adjusted mirrors.
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The size of your blind spots depends on your vehicle’s design. Trucks and SUVs often have larger blind spots than smaller cars.
Where Are Blind Spots Located?
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On most passenger vehicles, blind spots are located:
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To the left rear — just behind the driver’s side window.
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To the right rear — slightly behind and to the side of the passenger’s seat.
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These areas are hidden from both your rearview mirror and side mirrors, which means another car can be driving beside you without you seeing it.
How to Check Blind Spots
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Turn your head quickly over your shoulder to the left or right, depending on which lane you’re moving into.
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Glance to confirm whether the lane is clear before changing lanes or merging.
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Always signal first, then check, then move.
Why Blind Spots Are Dangerous
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Vehicles, cyclists, or even pedestrians can be in your blind spot without you realizing it.
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Changing lanes without checking blind spots is one of the leading causes of side-swipe crashes.
Safety Tips
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Adjust your mirrors properly before driving.
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Always do a shoulder check before lane changes or merging.
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Be aware of the blind spots of large vehicles like trucks and buses — if you can’t see their mirrors, they can’t see you.
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Minimize time driving in another vehicle’s blind spot.
Conclusion
Blind spots are the hidden areas around your car that mirrors can’t cover. The only way to be safe is to turn your head and check them before changing lanes, merging, or pulling into traffic. Responsible drivers never skip blind spot checks.