Whether you are a seasoned professional semi-truck driver or just beginning your career, it is critical to utilize your mirrors during the entire journey. From adjustments to additions, continue reading to see if you’re getting the ultimate use out of your mirrors and then visit one of White’s International Trucks seven North Carolina locations!
Know the Limitations
Mirrors are a vital tool for spatial awareness and decision making while on the road, but you shouldn’t rely on them too heavily because they do have limitations. Mirrors can reduce the amount of blind spots, but they will still exist, and drivers should have a strong understanding of their truck and trailer’s danger zones.
Adjust Your Mirrors Properly
Just like in your everyday drive, you should always adjust your mirrors before hitting the road. Can you see the end of your trailer? What about the lanes around you? Your side mirrors should offer a view of the neighboring lanes and a good view of your vehicle. This set of mirrors will be your primary tool for changing lanes and seeing other drivers. Side mirrors can also be equipped with look-down mirrors to have a better view of lower-set vehicles.
Next, move onto the extended-length planar mirrors, located on either side of the cabin. These give you a better view of your trailer load from various angles, especially on a wide-load. Lastly, check your convex mirrors. Most commonly mounted on the fender or hood of your vehicle, these should offer a good view of the surroundings behind you and to your sides, a similar view to your primary mirrors. Because these are mounted, they may be pre-adjusted for you.
Check Your Mirrors Often
As a truck driver, your driving style will likely differ from how you drive a commuter vehicle. You should constantly be checking your mirrors to stay aware of your surroundings and potential traffic changes. Especially on multi-lane interstates or highways, it is crucial to notice changes or potential hazards coming from behind you.
Use Your Mirrors for Turning
Similarly to checking your surroundings, your mirrors will be essential as you make tight turns. Check for traffic behind you as well as the space for your trailer. Although it’s common to touch the curb, checking your mirrors for objects and vehicles can determine how much space you’ll need to complete the turn with your trailer.
Keep Your Mirrors Clean
Possibly the most important tip for using your semi-truck mirrors is to keep them clean and regularly inspect them. Use an industry-grade glass cleaner to rid your mirrors of dirt, droppings, and debris and check for loose bolts. Tighten any that need to be tightened and make sure your mirrors aren’t damaged. Routinely cleaning and inspecting your mirrors ensures these important tools are ready to be used on the road.
Know the Mirror Laws
Yes, some states may have different laws regarding the mirrors on your truck. If you are embarking on a long-haul trip, review the laws for each state you’ll be driving through as some require different measurement guidelines and number of rear-viewing mirrors. In some situations, you may need to shorten the length of your mirrors or add additional ones. In fact, once you know the state-to-state laws, it may be beneficial to add mirrors to your rig anyway. The more angles you can view, the more aware you will be of other vehicles and obstacles.
Mirrors are an essential tool for drivers and hopefully these tips will help you with a successful delivery. White’s International Trucks has seven different locations throughout North Carolina, and our teams would love to help you with your driving needs! We offer parts, service, rentals, and buying options.
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