How long should a defensive driver wait to check their mirrors again after checking them?

The correct response indicates that a defensive driver should wait between 5 to 8 seconds before checking their mirrors again after the initial glance. This interval is important because it allows the driver sufficient time to focus on the road and assess their surroundings while still being attentive to potential changes in their environment, such as movements of other vehicles or pedestrians.

Regularly checking mirrors is essential for maintaining awareness of what is happening around the vehicle, but doing so too frequently can lead to distractions that may compromise safe driving. The recommended 5 to 8-second timeframe strikes a balance, providing enough time to evaluate the situation ahead and avoid over-relying on quick glances at the mirrors, which might lead to missing important developments on the road. Adopting this practice enhances overall situational awareness and promotes safer driving habits.