Using Car Mirrors for Safe Maneuvers

Anthony Fontanelle
January 7, 2008

Mirrors are used almost everywhere. From houses to stores, these things are already considered staples. With mirrors, rooms are made to look bigger while some are used to view one’s self or an object. Among the many machines dependent on mirrors are automobiles. The car mirror assembly, which is comprised of different mirror types, is definitely necessary in the safe operation of a vehicle.

First, there is the rear-view mirror, which is attached to a swivel mount above the windscreen. From the name itself, this type is designed to view the back portion of the vehicle, especially when the driver shifts the gear in reverse. While parking, for example, the driver can look at this mirror to see if there are any obstructions at the back. Another type of car mirror is the side-view mirror, which is strategically attached on both the driver’s and passenger’s sides. This type is often used when turning and changing lanes. While his vehicle is in motion, a driver glances at each mirror once in a while to check vehicles or other objects coming from the sides. These two types are the most common mirrors but there is also another one used in some vans called the back mirror. Installed at the rear window, this type allows the driver to see the tail end of the car so that he can estimate proper distance when parking or when in the middle of a tight traffic.

To have the car mirror assembly is one thing but to keep it in its proper position is another. The side-view mirrors, for example, are best positioned to view 90 percent of the road and 10 percent of the car body. In this angle, the driver has a good perspective of both the road and the vehicle. This proper side-view mirror position is also best achieved if the vehicle has a power mirror feature. This technology enables the driver to adjust the mirrors without the need to open the windows and reach for the mirrors to change their position manually. A more precise position of the side-view mirrors is achieved simply by pressing the corresponding buttons on the power mirror console.

These uses of the car mirror assembly only show why this is a staple in every vehicle whether it is a compact car or a heavy-duty truck. Without these mirrors, operating an automobile properly can be a really inconvenient task. More importantly, these parts are designed and are used to promote the safety of the driver, his passengers, and even of other motorists.

Source:  Amazines.com