MirrorSouth Africa
Traffic rules
South Africa
90. Mirror
A mirror is a device fitted to a vehicle that allows the driver to observe traffic behind and beside the vehicle without turning away from the road ahead for an extended period. Vehicles commonly use an interior rear-view mirror and one or more exterior side mirrors.
Mirrors help drivers monitor surrounding traffic before changing direction, changing lane, overtaking, merging or slowing down. Because mirrors cannot show every area around a vehicle, drivers should also check their blind spots by direct observation where necessary before manoeuvring.
Wikimedia.org • Petar Milošević • CC BY-SA
What is a vehicle mirror?
A vehicle mirror allows the driver to observe traffic and other road users behind or beside the vehicle.
What is the difference between an interior and exterior mirror?
An interior rear-view mirror normally provides a view through the rear window, while exterior side mirrors provide views along the sides and towards the rear of the vehicle.
When should you check your mirrors?
Check your mirrors regularly and particularly before changing speed or direction, changing lane, overtaking, merging, turning or stopping.
Should you adjust your mirrors before driving?
Yes. Mirrors should be adjusted from the normal driving position before setting off so that they provide the intended view of traffic behind and beside the vehicle.
Do mirrors eliminate blind spots?
No. Even correctly adjusted mirrors can leave areas that are not visible to the driver. These are commonly called blind spots.
Should you check your blind spot before changing lane?
Yes. Where necessary, use a brief direct observation in addition to the mirrors before moving sideways so that a cyclist, motorcycle or other vehicle hidden from the mirrors is not overlooked.
Can a damaged mirror affect road safety?
Yes. A cracked, loose, missing or badly adjusted mirror can reduce the driver's view of surrounding traffic and should be repaired or replaced when necessary.
Can cameras replace conventional mirrors?
Some vehicles use approved camera-based indirect-vision systems instead of or in addition to conventional mirrors. Whether such a system is legally permitted depends on the vehicle's approval and local technical requirements.
Why should you check mirrors before opening a vehicle door?
Checking the mirrors can help detect cyclists, motorcyclists and other approaching road users before a door is opened into their path.
Do motorcycles also need mirrors?
Yes, according to the applicable vehicle requirements. Motorcycles normally have one or more rear-view mirrors so that the rider can observe traffic behind without turning around for extended periods.
