There's an even simpler, more effective way of checking blind spots: Actually turning ones head and looking over the shoulder. The "blind spot" doesn't exist when drivers exercise proper caution and responsible driving behavior. Of course, expecting this of drivers is unrealistically utopian. Nevertheless, a "blind spot" is just another excuse for unsafe drivers.
I advocate turning your head and looking, but it’s not safe to take your eyes off the car ahead of you in Seattle traffic many times. When traffic is both fast and heavy and with the potential to completely stop fast enough to engage abs, randomly, every few miles, anything you can do to shorten the quick look the better. I have done this with my mirrors for a year or so and it’s been a big help. I still dart a glanc…
Re: How to Eliminate the Dreaded “Blind Spot”
#321I haven't driven in such heavy traffic, but you do everyone a favor if you can leave enough following distance not to have to brake so hard. It leaves a traffic shock wave that makes people slam on their brakes behind you, and starts a jam. If you can drop back just a little, you can maintain a more steady speed, which increases throughput for the road. Plus, longer-lived brakes.