What should be checked using mirrors when driving?

When driving a commercial vehicle, using mirrors effectively is crucial for maintaining a safe operating environment. Checking for oncoming traffic, the positioning of your trailer, and the condition of your tires through mirrors is essential for several reasons.

First, monitoring oncoming traffic allows the driver to be aware of vehicles approaching from behind or the side, which is critical for safe lane changes and merging. Second, keeping an eye on the trailer ensures that it is tracking properly and not swaying or moving unexpectedly, which could indicate issues with load stability or alignment. Finally, while you may not be able to check the tires directly through the mirrors, certain mirror adjustments can help assess the safety of the vehicle’s entire profile, which indirectly includes observing any abnormalities that might suggest tire problems.

In contrast, checking fuel levels, engine temperature, or brake engagement requires direct monitoring of vehicle gauges and instruments rather than reliance on mirrors. These tasks are essential as well, but they are best accomplished by directly looking at the dashboard and control panels rather than through mirrors used for visibility around the vehicle. Thus, the focus on traffic, trailer, and tires through mirror checks is vital for overall driving safety and vehicle control.