START WITH A CLEAN SLATE:
Find a cool spot to clean your mirrors instead of cleaning them in
the blazing sun.
Apply the cleaner to a lint-free cloth rather than applying the
cleaner directly to your mirrors.
Keep a small can of defroster within easy reach in your truck to
help keep your mirrors clear when the temperature dips below
freezing.
ADJUST YOUR MIRRORS
You should have two key goals in mind when adjusting your mirrors.
First, strive to maximize the amount of visual space.
Second, try to minimize your blind spots. Finally, remember that mirrors are prone to shifting, so you may have to adjust them more frequently depending upon your driving conditions.
KNOW YOUR BLIND SPOTS
In front: Due to sitting higher than drivers of other vehicles, it can be difficult to see vehicles directly in front of you.
The right side: Truck drivers have a large blind spot behind their cabs on the right-hand side.
The left side: Another common blind spot is behind the truck cab on the left-hand side.
On the back side of your truck: Because truck cabs tend to lack rear-view mirrors, drivers are unable to see if vehicles are following too closely.
USE YOUR MIRRORS WHEN TURNING
One of the single best uses for your semi-truck mirrors is to monitor your trailer while you are turning. Keeping a close eye on your trailer is particularly important if you are making a sharp turn, as your trailer may potentially collide with medians, signs, and other vehicles. And remember to monitor your trailer throughout the entire turn instead of turning your full attention to other roadway activities.
GIVE YOUR MIRRORS A HELPING HAND
Mirrors can go a long way toward helping you become a safer, more accurate semi-truck driver. However, mirrors alone will not guarantee a safe ride for you and the vehicles around you. It is ultimately up to you as a driver to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions to drive safely and respect your fellow motorists.
Always remain alert: Driving when you are tired or distracted will interfere with the quality of your driving.
