How often should a driver check their mirrors to ensure proper lane presence and change?

The best practice for checking mirrors while driving is indeed every 5-7 seconds. This frequency allows drivers to maintain awareness of their surroundings and monitor the positions of other vehicles. By consistently checking mirrors within this timeframe, drivers can effectively assess their lane position, watch for vehicles that may be in blind spots, and be prepared for any necessary lane changes or adjustments in driving.

Frequent mirror checks help drivers stay aware of traffic conditions, reduce the risk of collisions, and make informed decisions about changing lanes or merging. This practice supports safe driving habits, ensuring that the driver remains informed about their immediate environment as well as distant vehicles that may be approaching.

While checking mirrors every 3-5 seconds might result in excessive distraction and disrupt a driver's ability to focus on the road ahead, intervals longer than 5-7 seconds, such as every 10-15 seconds, could lead to missed opportunities to react to changes in traffic conditions. Thus, adhering to the 5-7 seconds interval strikes a balance between vigilance and focused driving.