What is the purpose of using vehicle mirrors?

The purpose of using vehicle mirrors is primarily to enhance visibility and reduce blind spots while driving. This is crucial for safe operation, especially in larger vehicles like those that require a Class B CDL. Mirrors provide drivers with a wider view of their surroundings, enabling them to see other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles that may not be visible through the front windshield or side windows. Proper use of mirrors helps drivers make informed decisions about lane changes, merging, and maintaining awareness of their environment, significantly contributing to road safety.

While some mirrors may incidentally reduce glare, that is not their primary function. Aesthetic enhancements or decorations related to mirrors do not contribute to vehicle safety or operational efficiency, and indicating lane changes is typically done through turn signals rather than mirror use alone. Therefore, the use of vehicle mirrors is fundamentally about improving visibility and ensuring the driver can navigate safely around potential hazards.