Each year many accidents occur because someone did not see an oncoming car that was in the "blind spot". These accidents are completely avoidable if the mirrors are adjusted correctly.
Each time the driver gets into a car, he/she should adjust the rearview mirror to see straight out the back window, not to either side. Then he/she should lean over to touch the head to the driver's side window and adjust the left side mirror so that he/she can barely see the side of the car. Repeat this with the right side mirror by leaning over into the middle. This should allow you to eliminate your blind spot. It can be tested when you are on a four-lane highway. Watch as a car approaches in the rearview mirror. Just as the car is about to disappear from the rearview mirror, check the left side mirror, and it should be there. Continue following it in the side mirror. Just as it is about to disappear, it should appear in your peripheral view. Do the same on the right side as you ride in the left lane.
This is great if you drive the same car all the time, and no one else gets in to adjust your mirrors. But it can be aggravating and forgotten if several drivers share one car, or if you drive several different vehicles. Blind spot mirrors can be a handy way to avoid the aggravation and time it takes to adjust the mirrors every time you get into the car. Several blind spot mirrors are available at varying styles and prices.
Round Convex Mirror Stick-ons
These are the smallest and cheapest type of blind spot mirrors. Ranging from two inches round to 3 3/4 inches round, these little mirrors stick on to the surface of the existing mirror at the bottom outside corner. The convex surface then shows more area of the road to eliminate the blind spot. These are not adjustable. The price ranges from $.99 to $3.39, making them extremely affordable.
Angled Add-on Mirror
This attaches to the end of an existing side mirror. The end angles out or in to increase visibility in the blind spot up to 75%. Depending on your type of vehicle, this blind spot mirror will cost between $3.99 and $5.99.
Square Adjustable Convex Stick-on
This mirror is similar to the round adhesive mirrors. However, this blind spot mirror attaches to the top inside corner surface of the existing mirror and is fully adjustable. The cost is $16.
Semi-circle Add-on Mirror
This half-circle mirror attaches to the top or bottom of the existing mirror fixture, not the surface. Since it is wider, it will offer a more panoramic view. It is also curved to reduce glare from rear approaching headlights. Two sizes are available with the smaller costing $19.95 and the larger costing $24.95.
Autobahn Blind Spot Mirror
This German-made blind spot mirror is more conspicuous. It is an oblong convex mirror that gives a panoramic view, but it mounts onto the windshield with a two-piece adjustable arm. This mirror will cost around $29.99.
To avoid the aggravation of constantly readjusting rearview and side mirrors, you can buy any number of blind spot mirrors that are on the market. Find the style that offers you the most vision and drive safely.