Is looking over your shoulder the only way to compensate for blind spots?

Looking over your shoulder is an important technique for alleviating blind spots, but it is not the only method available. Blind spots occur in areas around your vehicle that are not visible through your mirrors, making it essential to use a combination of strategies for safe driving.

To ensure a comprehensive awareness of your surroundings, drivers should also adjust their mirrors correctly, particularly side mirrors. By tilting them outward slightly beyond the traditional position, drivers can minimize blind spots. Additionally, utilizing technology such as blind-spot monitoring systems, if available, adds another layer of security. Regularly scanning the road and being aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles in proximity also enhances overall situational awareness.

In summary, while turning your head to check blind spots is a critical practice for safe lane changes and maneuvers, it should be part of a broader approach that includes proper mirror adjustment and vigilant scanning of the driving environment.