How often should you check your mirrors while driving a truck?

Checking your mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds is considered best practice for truck drivers because it ensures a consistent awareness of your surroundings, including other vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, and any potential hazards. This frequent checking allows drivers to react promptly to changes in traffic conditions and maintain situational awareness that is crucial for safe operation, especially given the larger blind spots of trucks compared to smaller vehicles.

By monitoring your mirrors regularly, you can better anticipate the actions of other road users and make informed decisions when it comes to lane changes, merging, or stopping. It also contributes to safer driving practices and helps in maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles.