Blind Spot Mirrors - Feature Explained
Do you feel uneasy changing lanes due to limited visibility? Have you nearly collided with a 2-wheeler overtaking your car from the left side because you couldn’t spot it in your rearview mirror? These are a few common concerns for many drivers. Traditional mirrors leave unseen areas, called blind spots, which can cause accidents during manoeuvres like turning or merging. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution to this problem – blind spot mirrors. These affordable additions to your car’s side mirrors significantly increase your field of view, reducing the risk of collisions with vehicles hidden in those unseen zones.
In this Feature Explained article, we take a look at handy little accessories called blind spot mirror, exploring their benefits, functionality, and whether it’s a worthwhile addition to your car.
What Is A Blind Spot Mirror?
A blind spot mirror is a small, convex mirror that attaches to your car’s side mirrors. These tiny mirrors are designed to eliminate blind spots, which are areas around your car that you can’t see in your regular rearview and side mirrors.
How Does A Blind Spot Mirror Work?
Blind spot mirrors provide a wider angle of view, helping you see vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians that might otherwise be hidden. This is especially useful when changing lanes, merging into traffic, or parking.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of A Blind Spot Mirror?
The pros, or advantages, of blind spot mirrors in a car, are:
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Enhanced Safety: The primary benefit of blind spot mirrors is the increased visibility they provide, minimising the risk of accidents caused by unseen vehicles in your blind spots.
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Easy Installation: Blind spot mirrors are generally easy to install on your side mirrors, often using adhesive tape or clamps.
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Affordable: Blind spot mirrors are a relatively inexpensive safety upgrade for your car.
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Universal Fit: Most blind spot mirrors come in a universal design, compatible with a wide range of car models.
Blind spot mirrors have the following disadvantages or issues:
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Potential for Adjustment Issues: Improperly adjusted blind spot mirrors might create additional blind spots or distort your perception of distance. Taking the time to ensure they're correctly positioned is crucial.
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Aesthetics: Some drivers may find the additional mirrors visually unappealing on their car's exterior.
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Limited Blind Spot Coverage: While helpful, blind spot mirrors don't entirely eliminate blind spots. It's still vital to perform shoulder checks before lane changes.
Also Read: Height-Adjustable Driver Seat - Detailed Feature Explained
How To Install Blind Spot Mirrors In A Car?
There are 2 main factors to consider when adding blind spot mirrors:
- Choosing the right mirrors: Look for well-made blind spot mirrors with a good field of view and a weatherproof design.
- Proper Installation: Meticulous adjustment is key. Ensure the blind spot mirrors are positioned to eliminate blind spots without creating any distortion.
Blind spot mirrors can be bought from any aftermarket car accessories dealer. The typically cost between Rs. 300 to Rs. 1,500 for a pair.
Should You Get Blind Spot Mirrors?
While not mandatory, blind spot mirrors offer a significant safety benefit at an affordable cost. They are an excellent addition for any car, especially for drivers who frequently navigate busy roads or those with larger vehicles with extensive blind spots. However, remember that blind spot mirrors are a supplement, not a replacement for proper shoulder checks and vigilance while driving.
Also Read: Rear Parking Camera – Feature Explained
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nikil Jonathan
Nikil's a huge fan of classic cars, especially Italian beauties such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint and the Iso Grifo. His love for cars and bikes originated when he first laid his eyes on a poster of the Ferrari F40 and the MV Agusta F4 when he was just a child. He also loves all things analogue, especially vintage cameras and turntables.
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