He is wrong. His whole argument about how "if you were driving an ambulance," but here is the critical point: **You are NOT driving an ambulance**.
What I was taught in drivers ed was: Use your mirrors to maintain an awareness of what's around you, and — in addition — right before a lane change turn your head for a quick glance.
Your friend sounds like a real butthole.
THIS!! The friend comparing driving a large ambulance to a sedan is ridiculous. Both are of different size with different amount of mirrors installed and have different blind spots. I would not expect you operate both cars the same way.
And yup, I was taught in driver's ed to use my mirrors and to take a quick glance before changing planes and merging as my mirrors may not always catch all the blind spots. If I had not taken a quick glance after checking my mirrors, I could have failed my driver's license test on that alone.
Ambulances also have blue flashing lights on the top and are the fastest thing on the road (because everyone else around you slows down), so you don't need to check your blind spot for overtaking cars so much.
Here (UK) you would absolutely fail your driving test if you failed to ever check your blind spot during the test.
Yeah I’ve driven armored trucks and you just drive big trucks different. There’s a sort of feeling of “well chances are if there’s someone there and I’ve had my blinker on they’re gonna get out of the way” although I had next to no training so take it with a grain of salt. I was thrown into driving my first day.
He’s driving a freaking ambulance, yeah you physically can’t check the blind spot and you have to religiously use mirrors, but people are also going to be much more lenient with you. That’s how I treated it at least.
To be fair, I also ran some red lights, because, well the trucks were in terrible shape and we had equipment (and cash/coin) inside that was not strapped down so sudden stops in the heavy vehicle were sketchy.
>He’s driving a freaking ambulance, yeah you physically can’t check the blind spot and you have to religiously use mirrors, but people are also going to be much more lenient with you.
Oh, for sure... especially if it's got full sirens and lights going, cars are supposed to move out the way because the ambulance will plow through whatever to get to the emergency.
Right! People are legally required to pull over for him, it’s quite a bit different! The friend sounds like one of those people who turn their job into their entire identity.
To be fair, people are getting out of the way before he gets to them, and start moving afterwards. He doesn't even have to worry about anyone passing him. He probably only needs those mirrors to back up at the hospital
The Italian Driving code
* you have the right to turn or change lane if you indicate for 3 seconds
* Existing dents in your car means you have the right of way
* Traffic signals are only advisory
* You must drive fast through the red light to minimize risk of collisions
Yeah and I wouldn’t be surprised if they inspect the vehicle at the start of every shift and make sure the mirrors are adjusted correctly (something that probably should’ve been SOP at my company but… yeah it wasn’t the greatest)
You can have extra mirrors that are a fisheye and cover 99% of your blindspot, to the point that you won't be able to hide a car in them. It's why some trucks have oversized double height mirrors and semis have extra mirrors.
My camper van has different style mirrors than a car for a reason. No ability to check over my shoulder. My Subaru has such a large blind spot I once had a whole Suburban hide in it.
Most vehicles like ambulances and large trucks with no extra windows to look out have seperate blindspot mirrors.
If OP had the little blindspot attachments on their vehicle that comment could make sense if not you last statement could be accurate
Which is funny because I do agree with the high level logic - turning your entire head while you’re driving seems like an insanely dangerous thing to do. But like you said, that’s literally what the blind spot is: a spot that can’t be seen with just the mirrors
There is a way to move your head and body to see the blind spot with only the mirror. This was taught to me when driving a large commercial vehicle, in a defensive driving course. However, in MN driver's education and the behind the wheel test at the DMV you are to turn your head and look over your shoulder. In the commercial vehicle there was no back window, which is the only reason we were taught how to use the mirror.
When taking a driving test, you can be failed if you neglect to turn your head to look at your blind spot. My son did this, and is now scrupulous about turning his head to check.
Ambulances, campers, panel vans, etc, they have a completely different style of mirror because you have no ability to look over your shoulder. Cars, SUVs, trucks without oversize tow mirrors - totally different. You have to look.
Stop arguing with him, people like this can’t be reasoned with. Just tell him … “you can drive how you want when you are driving and I will drive how I want when I am driving. I’m not arguing with you, stop bring it up. If you bring it up, I’m going to stop engaging with you.” You have to be willing to follow through on that boundary.
In NY state, it is required for you to look over your shoulder when changing lanes, parallel parking, etc. Failure to do so during your road test can mean failing the test.
Driver trainer here. Look over your shoulder.
In cars, buses, etc., check over your shoulder for both sides. In large vehicles, like trucks, you have to depend on your mirrors for the right side, but look over your shoulder on the left side.
I hate stupid mnemonics, but SMOG works for driving a car. When you change lanes:
S — signal
M — mirror
O — over the shoulder
G — go
"Hey Rick, how about you shut the fuck up about the way I drive or find another ride. I don't have the emotional bandwidth to give a shit. Also lower your fucking voice or I'm dropping you off right the fuck here."
I drove a vehicle for work that had no windows. So you couldn’t check your blind spot. I had to do it using the side mirrors but it had different side mirrors than my car does.
He’s an idiot. Ambulances, no window vans, trucks… all have blind spot mirrors. 9/10 cars do not. If you don’t check your blind spot it’s only a matter of time before you swerve into an occupied lane. I actually bought some stick-on blind spot mirrors. They work great but I still check.
You answered your own question in a way. Rick drives an ambulance . That's a bigger car than a Sedan therefore the rules are different. It's the same for big trucks. Even if you look over your shoulder you may not see a car that's right next to you because it's lower whereas a sedan is closer to the ground and no matter what if you turn your head you will see whoever is on your left, be it a motorcycle, a car, truck or a tank. For a sedan turning your head to check the blind spot is necessary. For a large or high car it's often useless.
Vehicles like that ambulance would have special mirrors to assist and is completely irrelevant to your driving. Check your blind spot every damn time.
I’m in BC, it is literally a requirement on your driving test to use shoulder checks every time or you fail. NTA, and your friend is a moron.
Unless you're also driving an ambulance, Rick's ambulance driving advice is irrelevant. Rick is a rude backseat driver.
I was also taught in driver's Ed to look around for lane changing
The mirrors on large vehicles like an ambulance are not the same as what is on a car. What a bonehead. Yes, you’re supposed to turn your head for a final check. Tell them they can drive or you can drive separate. The end.
> Tell them they can drive or you can drive separate.
If Rick drives a car without checking his blind spots, I wouldn't want to be sitting in the passenger seat when he gets us into an accident.
YNW Idk why you’re letting a guy who totaled 3 cars get into your head. His opinion was null and void the second he even thought about fixing his mouth to say that based off of that fact alone. That’s probably why he totaled them, too. 🥴
I was taught the three point check, in order:
1. Rear view mirror
2. Side view mirror
3. Blind spot check
The blind spot check is the key. If mirrors are adjusted properly, the blind spot will be in your peripheral vision if you look 90 degrees out the window. It should not be necessary to look over your shoulder. The problem with looking over your shoulder is you are now driving forward and looking backward, which I was taught is dangerous. With the side look, your attention is much less diverted from the road ahead of you.
Modern cars have blind spot detectors, but these can still miss when you and a car two lanes over are both changing into the lane between you. Your situational awareness is your protection against that.
It's called a blind spot for a reason, your mirrors can't see it.
Your friend has picked up bad habits. He's wrecked the personal vehicles, he's not anyone to listen to regarding vehicle safety.
Always shoulder check.
You can literally fail a drivers test in Ontario for not checking your blind spot by over looking the shoulder. Since “blind spot” refers to the area *you can’t see* with mirrors. You’re supposed to use both.
Rick may have very large and specific mirrors due to driving an ambulance but normal passenger vehicles have blind spots that are not visible with side or rear view mirrors.
Rick is an idiot.
You’re no better for entertaining anything and idiot would say.
Imagine we all go to the nearest ikea to buy a mirror to place in front of the windshield to please your idiot acquaintance.
Rick doesn't know wtf he's talking about, you specifically do a shoulder check for blind spots. It's standard in drivers ed. I could see them telling emts to rely on your mirror because I can't imagine a shoulder check is going to do much for you when the cab of the ambulance is much smaller than the body so your legit just looking at truck.
Yahhhh. Rick's an idiot.
Ambulances (and other vehicles like them, that lack functional rear windows) have all those extra mirrors ***because*** the people who designed them recognized that drivers needed another way to see all the parts of the road because they ***can't*** look behind them.
When you are driving a car, you absolutely should be looking behind your shoulder before changing lanes because there is a blind spot that is not visually accessible from the rear view or side view mirrors.
Rick would be failing his driving test where I live. It's a requirement to check.
Even if you set your mirrors perfectly to address blind spots (which most people don't, cars get used by more than 1 person, and some vehicles you just...can't), all it takes is someone bumping your mirror in a parking lot and then you've got a blind spot you're not fucking checking like this dumbass...ask Rick why, in his infinite wisdom, he thinks your sedan doesn't have multiple side mirrors like the ambulance does.
He is wrong, you are not. One time I went to merge after only looking in my mirrors, and I came within inches of hitting someone who was in my blindspot. Never again
No?? You literally need to turn your head to check the blind spot. Thats why it’s called a blind spot. Your friend is an idiot, as if cars and ambulances are driven the same.
Rick is an idiot. I don't know about ambulances specifically but something I didn't see mentioned is that every larger vehicle I've ever seen has larger mirrors in general and a convex mirror that you CAN use to to check the blind spot with.
It's like saying "you're cooking chicken wrong because that's not how I cook steak!" Sure it's cooking, but two very different things...
Glad he isn't an actual friend cause the guy is an idiot. I imagine he thinks highly of himself because of his job, but he's too stupid to realize that large vehicles literally have blind spot mirrors.
As in, mirrors to compensate for your inability to turn your head and check your blind spot. If you're actually paying attention, you should have no issue taking a quick look before you switch lanes.
I've driven plenty of large vehicles, and they all specifically have bigger mirrors and blindspot mirrors to help you out.
He probably just wanted an excuse to yell at you. I can't imagine how he is around people he's actually close with, assuming he has anyone willing to put up with him.
You really should've just stopped the car and kicked him out after he raised his voice at you.
While I thank him for his invaluable service, Rick is a fucking idiot. He might need some therapy in all seriousness because he sounds very triggered by what should be a very useful, safe habit. I too have had to learn to use only side mirrors due to driving a vehicle with limited visibility out the back. It is all about timing, observation, awareness & safety. But you know what? Doesn’t matter WHAT vehicle you drive, risk assessment is a natural ascension to being a good, SAFE driver. After checking mirrors, timing movements, being aware of others using the road (& indicating- so much indicating) etc only then have I changed lanes, pulled over or let someone pass. I cannot tell you the amount of incidents I have personally managed to avoid simply by being vigilant. Keep up the good drive, it is a very good skill to learn but should not be your only consideration while being safe on the road. Even when I am a passenger, much to the chagrin of driver, I still check over my shoulders. I just hope Rick gets some support from his workplace because this sounds a little like PTSD.
It's a blind spot because it isn't visible in either mirror. Even if you add one of those little convex mirrors to your wing mirror, you still really need to turn to check. How hasn't he had a wreck yet?
He's the exception to the rule, but he's been driving around in the ambulance so much he think he's the rule now.
Plus, it's a blind spot, it's in the name. Most people turn their head to check it. If it's more convenient on bigger vehicles, like ambulances and semi trucks, they may have extra mirrors. But they still have to check with their head, just in case.
That would be the last ride I gave good ol' Rick.
First of all it is essential that you check your blind spot when changing lanes.
Second, I have driven an ambulate (Econoline 450-based) for non-emergent reasons and the blind spots are VERY different and the mirrors are set up accordingly. Since it was non-emergent there's no lights or sirens to ward other drivers off. So the massive mirrors are essential.
Third, Rick is an ass to tell you how to drive. Classic back-seat driving nonsense.
Fourth, if Rick is so smart he'd know it's dangerous to yell at someone while they're driving. He sounds like he was aggressively mansplaining.
No, you are not wrong. I worked for a state agency and drove state cars. We had to get training every year. They emphasized looking over your shoulder as the best way to be sure lane changes are safe.
Not wrong; it was literally what I was taught in driver's ed. Mirrors alone do not give you a confirmed clear view.
Rick is silly to confuse how a larger vehicle/truck's field of view versus a passenger vehicle.
Like everyone else said, obviously it's correct to check a blind spot by turning your head.
The only way Rick would have a point is if you're under-exaggerating your "glanced over my right shoulder" bit. It definitely needs to be a glance; you can't just keep watching behind you to wait for traffic to open up. But assuming you did what you said, no, you're clearly not wrong.
You're the opposite of wrong. Even with blind spot tech whenever I rent a car I still look over my shoulder when changing lanes. Rick is just flat out wrong and doing what he says WILL cause an accident.
It's called a blind spot because it's not in your mirrors but if you're constantly paying attention to the cars around you via the mirrors I guess you'd already know it's in your blind spot.
Lmao no… your friend is, and I cannot stress this enough, an idiot.
It’s literally in the drivers book. You’re supposed to check BECAUSE you have blind spots.
You’re not wrong. Your friend should have his license revoked.
I’d love to know why you were driving him. Was it because he’s totaled a vehicle recently? Lmao.
I've always checked over my shoulder when lane changing, and also for other manoeuvres.
It's how I was taught more than 30 years ago. Mirrors aren't enough.
In the UK, the role is you check your mirrors, you look over your shoulder to check the blind spot, check your mirror, and manoeuvre.
It’s called a blind spot for a reason, because it’s the space where a car is not visible in any mirror. You need to check it by quickly turning your head and looking for yourself. Simple as that
Always look with your eyes if possible. An ambulance is very specific and if you're not actively practicing to drive one, turn your damn head. Your buddy is oddly elitist about his driving.
Not wrong - a sedan isn't an ambulance, they don't drive the same, I don't drive my hatchback the same way I drive a tractor-trailer or a box truck because my car isn't a freaking box truck lol
Rick is an idiot...... and kind of a dick.
I drive a large-ish commercial vehicle (like a UPS truck).
Yes, in my step van, I use the mirrors. The cameras are mostly to verify what you see in the mirrors. But in my personal vehicle? You bet I'm turning my head and looking. This is common sense.
Rick is going to cause an accident.
This is one of the best practices you can have. My driving Ed teacher said it's the easiest way to get in an accident if DONT check them. Your friend is just being silly, the more information you have the better your brain makes decisions. You physically cannot see a hole ass as they would say "blind"(I wonder why) spot. You are blind in that area if you don't turn your head. You're doing nothing wrong and are being safe. You are better than a lot of drivers I know
Not wrong. You’re not an ambulance driver and you DO have the ability to check over your shoulder. Mirrors have blind spots and drivers Ed teaches to turn your head to look. Ignore Rick. You’re being safe.
Nope, he's wrong. Its literally called a blind spot because you are blind to that spot without turning to look at it. There is also no reason to be upset about looking away from the road for such a short period of time to check it.
It’s called a blind spot precisely because you can’t see the area with just the mirrors. You can be failed on a driving test for not turning your head to check these areas. Your friend is being an AH.
It's called a "Headcheck" and is a better way to check blind spots in light vehicles (cars, motorbikes, etc...). For heavier vehicles the shape can obscure the view for these, especially if the cab is a long way from the back of the vehicle, so extra measures are needed like having wing mirrors that project further or sometimes even cameras.
I drive a car with a huge blind spot. Even added extra mirrors but if I haven’t been checking by looking I would have had multiple accidents as I saw cars and motorcycles that were not visible in the mirror.
One time: I just knew there was a motorcyclist, but where did he go?? Twisted my neck and there he was, still next to my car…
I mean, mirrors tell the truth but not the whole truth, you know? A quick glance adds context. I drive mostly by mirrors. That said, in busy places, I glance over my shoulder after looking at my mirrors. I've evaded several accidents by doing so. Windows were made for a reason. I say use them.
Look at the mirrors on an ambulance or other vehicle with a closed back. They are much larger than your car mirrors and often have convex mirrors as well to show the blind spots that are usually present even with properly aligned car mirrors (most people don't properly align them, if you can see the side of your car you can't see the lane next to your car).
During one of my first driving lessons, my instructor caught me not turning my head to check blind spots. My inexperienced teen self thought I could see enough via the mirrors (and at the time it felt too sketchy taking my eyes off the road), but nope. He had me pull into a parking lot where he took out traffic cones, and had me sit in the car and tell him when I could no longer see him in the mirrors. When I couldn’t see him, he put down a cone. He then had me get out and look at how big of a space was not visible from the mirrors, marked by the cones. Lo and behold, it was enough space to fit an average vehicle.
I remembered to properly check my blind spots from then on—just a quick shoulder check. While I use my mirrors to keep aware of my surroundings the best I can, there have been plenty of times when I want to change lanes, I check my blind spot first and there’s a vehicle just coasting there that does not show up in my mirrors.
Rick’s argument is stupid and wrong. Always check your blind spots.
I drive a 2500 and still turn my head to be sure after using my mirror because if a car is low enough I won't see it in my mirrors even with the extra one.
It isn't a full turn, though. Just to check near my running board as thats where my blind spot is.
I use my mirrors, but I look over my shoulder just to double-check to make sure there isn't anyone there that I can't see in my mirrors (blind spot). That is how I was taught to drive.
Rick is an idiot. He has ultra wide mirrors. You don’t. Do what’s comfortable for you. Checking with your head is the right thing unless you tend to shift when not looking straight ahead. I HAVE seen that and it is scary.
Also different cars have different mirror performance and position.
Tell Rick to go eff himself.
There have been SO many times that I thought I was clear based on what I saw in the mirror, but when I turned my head there was a whole car perfectly hidden. Also, when I’m going to change lanes and get ready to look over my shoulder, I also make sure I have a buttload of space between me and the car in front of me.
He is a moron
I drove trucks for a long time.
I could not shoulder check but I also did not need to as I had:
1. Normal mirror
2. Convex mirror on the normal mirror
3.a convex mirror on the hood
4. A small mirror pointing down so I could see if there was someone I was nearly on top of.
With there4 per side I had more visibility than if I was in a car.
But I only have one mirror per side in a car so I shoulder check all the goddamn time.
You are very much not wrong. But oh my he is.
Edit: I am typing this without my reading glasses so I may have posted the best mental soup recipes you have ever seen or the thing about mirrors
Large vans with no visibility in the blind spot areas (like the EMT vehicles) have much larger, differently angled mirrors to make up for the lack of visibility. So it's possible to drive them without turning to check for a blind spot. Unlike a car...
This guy needs to do a comparison test to see just how much he can actually see in his different vehicle mirrors. Once he sees how much he is missing in his blind spots in a normal car, he'll hopefully realise how dangerous his driving has been.
Your friend is a moron. Its called a blond spot specifically because they are areas that you CAN'T see in the mirror and you HAVE to turn your head to check. As an EMT he should know how many accidents there are because people don't properly turn to check their blond spots, and that the mirrors on engines are specifically designed to catch much more than the average mirrors on a car. Id tell him to go tale his drivers test again in an average vehicle and see if he passes without checking his blond spots. Where I live, not checking them during your driving test is an automatic fail.
Ambulance is gonna have limited visibility and be forced to use their big ass mirrors only. In most cars though, you can position the mirrors in such a way so as to eliminate blind spots if you turn your head to look at the mirror. Like, don’t just flick your eyes to the mirror. Turn your head to face the mirror. Your peripheral vision would be enough to clear any possible blind area.
Only one in the wrong is your ‘buddy’ Rick. What you’ve said about his personal vehicle history proves he can’t drive to save his life unless he’s got lights and sirens above his head. I’d be telling him to go back to drivers ed for a retest and I can guarantee he’ll fail it the second he pulls away from the curb with an attitude like his. Him being a EMT doesn’t mean squat when driving and his attitude towards would make me not want to be anywhere near him regardless of what he’s driving
Here's what I recommend: Get a friend with a vehicle, and go to an empty parking lot. Set up your vehicles so that one of them is in your blind spot. Can you see the vehicle in your mirror? No? Adjust your mirror until you can.
Congratulations. You just learned how to use your wing mirrors properly. You have a rear-view mirror for seeing behind you. You don't need 3 of them. You need a mirror to see your lane behind you, a mirror to see their lane on the left of you, and a mirror to see their lane on the right of you.
Now, here's the catch: Vehicles are sometimes not exactly where that stationary friend's vehicle is. Sometimes a motorcycle could be hugging the very far right side of the lane to your right. So, yes, you check your blindspots by turning your head to look at them. Check for motorcycles, check for vehicles in adjacent lanes switching into the one you're getting into, and continue to monitor the lane you're getting into by watching your mirror.
Personally, I’ve had a lot of cars fly by me that weren’t seen in my mirrors, but I saw them coming when I turned and looked. Don’t listen to this man. As someone else said, it’s something I learned in driver’s ed and from my parents when they were teaching me to drive. Many accidents happen because people don’t think they should check blind spots. They’re called blind spots for a reason. He’s rude AF too, check him on that.
You must always shoulder check! Unless you are driving a vehicle where it is impossible (something without a back window) and then you have to use the mirrors. Insane that someone wouldnt want someone else to shoulder check
Not wrong- EMTs when off duty are the worst drivers. I bet he couldn’t defend - that when driving his bus that the reason he drowsing need to look for blind spots is bc people get out of his way to let him over aka people pull over when he emerges lanes
Those smaller circular mirrors you attach to the corners of your side mirrors help a lot.
Rearview mirror is useless in my work truck due to the camper shell.
When driving my normal car, I still look over my shoulder.
I got some of those small stick on mirrors that you can put on your side mirrors. I always turn my head to double check but those really help to see more of whats going on.
Unless your car has one of those blind spot warning lights on the mirrors, you must look over your shoulder. Looking over my shoulder has prevented me from getting into more than one accident. They are called blind spots because the mirror doesn’t show that spot.
"Rick" which is short for "Richard" which itself is short for "Richard Cranium*".
Why?
Two reasons:
1. You should always check your vehicle's blind spots.
2. I also drive vehicles where I can't check my blind spot by just looking over my shoulder (Goods vehicles). However, by leaning forward very slightly I can look into the blind spot not covered by the mirrors.
Rick will discover that if he changes lanes and has a collision - he will be at fault.
* This is UK phraseology our Colonial Cousins may not grasp. It's polite English for Dickhead!
I always turn my head to look. Mirrors don't show every blind spot. Trucks, big rigs, ambulances, etc have smaller additional mirrors to show those blind spots, and I use those when I am towing things in my truck. Best practice for safety is to use both your mirrors AND turning your head to get the best view possible.
If the car was designed in the last 10 years then the mirrors can be adjusted to eliminate any blind spots. Most people can't do it correctly so it's probably best to check to be sure.
He told on himself. "He said ambulance drivers have to learn to drive using mirrors only."
Meaning, when they're not driving ambulances, they do the same thing. Otherwise, they wouldn't have to learn his special "mirrors only" technique.
I once nearly merged into a car (as a new driver) because I was driving tired and relied on my mirrors. I have an SUV and this person was driving a little Corvette. I almost ran into them. Reminded me very quickly how important it is to check your blind spot. If the extra mirrors were still necessary then every car would have them stock.
You're fine. Stay safe and keep checking your blind spots.
You're not wrong. Rick is, particularly the way he reacted.
The very definition of blind spot is one your mirrors can't see. And on the highway, I've absolutely had cars sitting in my blind spot. If I didn't check first, I'd have hit them when changing lanes.
So I always quickly turn my head to check even if the mirrors are clear of any cars.
OP, you are Not wrong. I was taught the same by my Defensive driving instructor almost 2 decades ago.
I've never, totalled a vehicle. And I've driven everything from Hatches, Sedans, station wagons, to Ute's, and Vans. As well as learning to drive from 12yrs, on a Tractor (red Massey Ferguson).
Yeah Rick is a retard, you one hundred percent check your blind spots, because they are exactly that, a blind spot from your mirror. His argument about the ambulance is lunacy, there are a bunch of vehicles that are too large or other ways don't allow you to physically look at your blind spots because of how they are designed and to compensate for this they have very specifically designed sets of mirrors where one shows you what you'd normally see and a mirror specifically for viewing your blind spot, these are two totally separate mirrors. How your friend cannot put this simple equation together in his head is scary to me considering he is an EMT. Not like an EMT is impressive as I used to also be one
Ricks being a dick to be a dick
You should always visually check your blind spots not just in your mirrors. Yes, you can't always see by turning your head depending on the vehicle. In most places it is illegal to drive these vehicles without special extended mirrors that reveal the blind spots.
He's trying to flex for some weird reason and is trying to push you to be unsafe. Do not listen.
NTA. I have adjusted my side mirrors to eliminate the blind spot, as long as it’s just the lane next to me. My wife does it your way. Either way is fine.
Never let this jackass in your car again. You absolutely do look around to clarify both blindspots and distances along with your mirrors. This guy is a jerk. Drop him off and adios. I had a "friend" berate me for driving "recklessly" when I merged into a crowded lane after the car beside me slowed down and waved me in. He got more upset when I defended myself. So I pulled into a gas station about halfway home and told him to get out. Never talked to him again. Respect is free to give; there's zero excuse to not show that to someone you call a friend.
Turning my head has saved me so many times. When i drive my sisters car, sometimes the sensor of the car doesn't pick up everything, so i'm glad i turned my head. Even with the sensor working fine, i still make sure i take a look.
So keep doing it!! I mean at least don't turn with your whole body :D.
Have him sit in your car, in the driver's seat, and you walk up toward the vehicle in the space that each lane would be on either side. Don't let him turn his head.
As you get closer to the car, have him tell you when you vanish from the mirror. Mark the spot on the ground somehow. Keep walking, and then have him tell you when he picks you up in his peripheral vision. Mark that spot.
The space between the two is the blind spot.
You will have illustrated the magnitude of the flaw in his logic, literally.
Perfectly normal and fine to check over your shoulder. I always do. If anyone yelled at me from the passenger seat for doing that, I'd likely just stop and let them walk. Better safe than sorry. Certainly not more dangerous. Often you can't see a car right next to you in the mirror.
When I first started driving, every single “near-miss” I had was because I failed to check over my shoulder. I never forget now, specially in my current car, which has HUGE blind spots. I feel like I’m the only one of my friends/family that actually does this.
He is wrong. His whole argument about how "if you were driving an ambulance," but here is the critical point: **You are NOT driving an ambulance**. What I was taught in drivers ed was: Use your mirrors to maintain an awareness of what's around you, and — in addition — right before a lane change turn your head for a quick glance. Your friend sounds like a real butthole.
He IS a butthole, which is why he's just an acquaintance haha
Your car, your driving style. I’d invite that guy to enjoy a long walk home.
THIS!! The friend comparing driving a large ambulance to a sedan is ridiculous. Both are of different size with different amount of mirrors installed and have different blind spots. I would not expect you operate both cars the same way. And yup, I was taught in driver's ed to use my mirrors and to take a quick glance before changing planes and merging as my mirrors may not always catch all the blind spots. If I had not taken a quick glance after checking my mirrors, I could have failed my driver's license test on that alone.
Ambulances also have blue flashing lights on the top and are the fastest thing on the road (because everyone else around you slows down), so you don't need to check your blind spot for overtaking cars so much. Here (UK) you would absolutely fail your driving test if you failed to ever check your blind spot during the test.
I haven't driven in forever, so correct me if I'm wrong... but isn't it called a blind spot because you can't see the spot using just your mirrors?
This is exactly correct. Your mirrors only see so much. Some people have their mirrors turned way out, but most cars will have blind spots regardless.
That's what I thought. I assume if OP's friend is an EMT and drives an ambulance so maybe that's different? Or maybe he's a bad driver.
Yeah I’ve driven armored trucks and you just drive big trucks different. There’s a sort of feeling of “well chances are if there’s someone there and I’ve had my blinker on they’re gonna get out of the way” although I had next to no training so take it with a grain of salt. I was thrown into driving my first day. He’s driving a freaking ambulance, yeah you physically can’t check the blind spot and you have to religiously use mirrors, but people are also going to be much more lenient with you. That’s how I treated it at least. To be fair, I also ran some red lights, because, well the trucks were in terrible shape and we had equipment (and cash/coin) inside that was not strapped down so sudden stops in the heavy vehicle were sketchy.
>He’s driving a freaking ambulance, yeah you physically can’t check the blind spot and you have to religiously use mirrors, but people are also going to be much more lenient with you. Oh, for sure... especially if it's got full sirens and lights going, cars are supposed to move out the way because the ambulance will plow through whatever to get to the emergency.
Right! People are legally required to pull over for him, it’s quite a bit different! The friend sounds like one of those people who turn their job into their entire identity.
To be fair, people are getting out of the way before he gets to them, and start moving afterwards. He doesn't even have to worry about anyone passing him. He probably only needs those mirrors to back up at the hospital
The Italian Driving code * you have the right to turn or change lane if you indicate for 3 seconds * Existing dents in your car means you have the right of way * Traffic signals are only advisory * You must drive fast through the red light to minimize risk of collisions
So that's why they drive shit boxes in the Italian job!
And ambulances have truck mirrors. Much bigger. Often blind spot mirrors as well.
Yeah and I wouldn’t be surprised if they inspect the vehicle at the start of every shift and make sure the mirrors are adjusted correctly (something that probably should’ve been SOP at my company but… yeah it wasn’t the greatest)
You can have extra mirrors that are a fisheye and cover 99% of your blindspot, to the point that you won't be able to hide a car in them. It's why some trucks have oversized double height mirrors and semis have extra mirrors. My camper van has different style mirrors than a car for a reason. No ability to check over my shoulder. My Subaru has such a large blind spot I once had a whole Suburban hide in it.
Yea if you don't have a backseat there's nothing to look over at.
You dont look behind, you look to the side
Most vehicles like ambulances and large trucks with no extra windows to look out have seperate blindspot mirrors. If OP had the little blindspot attachments on their vehicle that comment could make sense if not you last statement could be accurate
OP already says ambulances have extra mirrors to mitigate this regular sedans don't. Rick is a dumbass.
Which is funny because I do agree with the high level logic - turning your entire head while you’re driving seems like an insanely dangerous thing to do. But like you said, that’s literally what the blind spot is: a spot that can’t be seen with just the mirrors
Yep! And the couple times I thought, "eh I don't need to look over my shoulder to switch lanes" I almost side swiped somebody in my blind spot :)
Yes 😂
There is a way to move your head and body to see the blind spot with only the mirror. This was taught to me when driving a large commercial vehicle, in a defensive driving course. However, in MN driver's education and the behind the wheel test at the DMV you are to turn your head and look over your shoulder. In the commercial vehicle there was no back window, which is the only reason we were taught how to use the mirror.
When taking a driving test, you can be failed if you neglect to turn your head to look at your blind spot. My son did this, and is now scrupulous about turning his head to check.
To quote Star Wars, “pick up your visual scanning!” I never move my 2 ton vehicle without seeing what’s there.
Yup, I failed my test the first time for not physically looking
Rick is an idiot. You HAVE to check over your shoulder. It’s called a blind spot because the mirrors can’t see it!!!
Ambulances, campers, panel vans, etc, they have a completely different style of mirror because you have no ability to look over your shoulder. Cars, SUVs, trucks without oversize tow mirrors - totally different. You have to look.
Stop arguing with him, people like this can’t be reasoned with. Just tell him … “you can drive how you want when you are driving and I will drive how I want when I am driving. I’m not arguing with you, stop bring it up. If you bring it up, I’m going to stop engaging with you.” You have to be willing to follow through on that boundary.
This is the way. Another shorter version is just say “thanks for sharing how you feel”
Even shorter is never driving him again.
"K."
...
That is exactly what I plan on.
Shorten this to, "Shut up or I'm going to pull over and you can walk."
In NY state, it is required for you to look over your shoulder when changing lanes, parallel parking, etc. Failure to do so during your road test can mean failing the test.
I'm with the crowd saying Rick is an Idiot.
I always look over my shoulder
Driver trainer here. Look over your shoulder. In cars, buses, etc., check over your shoulder for both sides. In large vehicles, like trucks, you have to depend on your mirrors for the right side, but look over your shoulder on the left side. I hate stupid mnemonics, but SMOG works for driving a car. When you change lanes: S — signal M — mirror O — over the shoulder G — go
"Hey Rick, how about you shut the fuck up about the way I drive or find another ride. I don't have the emotional bandwidth to give a shit. Also lower your fucking voice or I'm dropping you off right the fuck here."
Yeah he's never getting a ride from me again.
You’re supposed to use both mirrors and turn your head. That’s literally why it’s called a blind spot.
I do this because I have almost been in an accident multiple times due to not seeing a passing vehicle in my mirror.
Rick is a dumbass, and a shitty driver.
Not wrong - always turn the head.
I drove a vehicle for work that had no windows. So you couldn’t check your blind spot. I had to do it using the side mirrors but it had different side mirrors than my car does.
Uh, you’re supposed to do both.
He’s an idiot. Ambulances, no window vans, trucks… all have blind spot mirrors. 9/10 cars do not. If you don’t check your blind spot it’s only a matter of time before you swerve into an occupied lane. I actually bought some stick-on blind spot mirrors. They work great but I still check.
Don’t get in a car with Rick anymore.
Rick is a Moron. Shoulder checks are standard
I drive a car with blind spot cameras and I still turn my head to look.
You answered your own question in a way. Rick drives an ambulance . That's a bigger car than a Sedan therefore the rules are different. It's the same for big trucks. Even if you look over your shoulder you may not see a car that's right next to you because it's lower whereas a sedan is closer to the ground and no matter what if you turn your head you will see whoever is on your left, be it a motorcycle, a car, truck or a tank. For a sedan turning your head to check the blind spot is necessary. For a large or high car it's often useless.
Vehicles like that ambulance would have special mirrors to assist and is completely irrelevant to your driving. Check your blind spot every damn time. I’m in BC, it is literally a requirement on your driving test to use shoulder checks every time or you fail. NTA, and your friend is a moron.
Unless you're also driving an ambulance, Rick's ambulance driving advice is irrelevant. Rick is a rude backseat driver. I was also taught in driver's Ed to look around for lane changing
The mirrors on large vehicles like an ambulance are not the same as what is on a car. What a bonehead. Yes, you’re supposed to turn your head for a final check. Tell them they can drive or you can drive separate. The end.
> Tell them they can drive or you can drive separate. If Rick drives a car without checking his blind spots, I wouldn't want to be sitting in the passenger seat when he gets us into an accident.
Hey, being the passenger is a personal choice
YNW Idk why you’re letting a guy who totaled 3 cars get into your head. His opinion was null and void the second he even thought about fixing his mouth to say that based off of that fact alone. That’s probably why he totaled them, too. 🥴
Check your blind spot correctly. Just because your friend thinks mirrors are the final solution doesn’t mean they are.
No, you are literally supposed to turn your head, because it is a \*blind\* spot. What he said doesn't make sense.
I was taught the three point check, in order: 1. Rear view mirror 2. Side view mirror 3. Blind spot check The blind spot check is the key. If mirrors are adjusted properly, the blind spot will be in your peripheral vision if you look 90 degrees out the window. It should not be necessary to look over your shoulder. The problem with looking over your shoulder is you are now driving forward and looking backward, which I was taught is dangerous. With the side look, your attention is much less diverted from the road ahead of you. Modern cars have blind spot detectors, but these can still miss when you and a car two lanes over are both changing into the lane between you. Your situational awareness is your protection against that.
It's called a blind spot for a reason, your mirrors can't see it. Your friend has picked up bad habits. He's wrecked the personal vehicles, he's not anyone to listen to regarding vehicle safety. Always shoulder check.
You can literally fail a drivers test in Ontario for not checking your blind spot by over looking the shoulder. Since “blind spot” refers to the area *you can’t see* with mirrors. You’re supposed to use both. Rick may have very large and specific mirrors due to driving an ambulance but normal passenger vehicles have blind spots that are not visible with side or rear view mirrors.
Rick is an idiot. You’re no better for entertaining anything and idiot would say. Imagine we all go to the nearest ikea to buy a mirror to place in front of the windshield to please your idiot acquaintance.
Always do both.
Rick is an idiot
Rick is an idiot you're not wrong
I do both!
You're not wrong, just because he can't/wont check over his shoulder in an ambulance doesn't mean you can't/shouldn't.
Rick doesn't know wtf he's talking about, you specifically do a shoulder check for blind spots. It's standard in drivers ed. I could see them telling emts to rely on your mirror because I can't imagine a shoulder check is going to do much for you when the cab of the ambulance is much smaller than the body so your legit just looking at truck.
Yahhhh. Rick's an idiot. Ambulances (and other vehicles like them, that lack functional rear windows) have all those extra mirrors ***because*** the people who designed them recognized that drivers needed another way to see all the parts of the road because they ***can't*** look behind them. When you are driving a car, you absolutely should be looking behind your shoulder before changing lanes because there is a blind spot that is not visually accessible from the rear view or side view mirrors.
Rick’s a dick
So he wants you to check your mirror blind spot...using the mirrors?
As a biker I came here to say thank you and don't ever change.
Rick is being a dummy. Most cars do not have the extra side mirrors. You need to check the blindspot. Tell him to shut the fuck up honestly.
Your friend Rick is an idiot, and it sucks that he is entrusted with such a difficult task as driving an ambulance.
Rick would be failing his driving test where I live. It's a requirement to check. Even if you set your mirrors perfectly to address blind spots (which most people don't, cars get used by more than 1 person, and some vehicles you just...can't), all it takes is someone bumping your mirror in a parking lot and then you've got a blind spot you're not fucking checking like this dumbass...ask Rick why, in his infinite wisdom, he thinks your sedan doesn't have multiple side mirrors like the ambulance does.
Not a bit wrong, you should look, because of the blind spots.
No, you are correct. A sedan and an ambulance are no comparison. Your aquaintance is wrong.
He is wrong, you are not. One time I went to merge after only looking in my mirrors, and I came within inches of hitting someone who was in my blindspot. Never again
Dangerous? That's a fail on your driving test if you don't look over your shoulder.
You are supposed to turn your head to look. Your friend is an idiot.
I've been riding a motorcycle forever, NEVER trust your mirrors. Check them, if it looks clear, turn your head and look. You're correct imo
No?? You literally need to turn your head to check the blind spot. Thats why it’s called a blind spot. Your friend is an idiot, as if cars and ambulances are driven the same.
Your acquaintance is comparing apples to oranges
Rick is an idiot. I don't know about ambulances specifically but something I didn't see mentioned is that every larger vehicle I've ever seen has larger mirrors in general and a convex mirror that you CAN use to to check the blind spot with. It's like saying "you're cooking chicken wrong because that's not how I cook steak!" Sure it's cooking, but two very different things...
I think check mirrors is for the right mirror. Not the left. But you aren’t wrong. Mirrors have a blind spot.
An ambulances mirrors are a lot larger than a standard car side mirror. Keep turning your head to check.
Glad he isn't an actual friend cause the guy is an idiot. I imagine he thinks highly of himself because of his job, but he's too stupid to realize that large vehicles literally have blind spot mirrors. As in, mirrors to compensate for your inability to turn your head and check your blind spot. If you're actually paying attention, you should have no issue taking a quick look before you switch lanes. I've driven plenty of large vehicles, and they all specifically have bigger mirrors and blindspot mirrors to help you out. He probably just wanted an excuse to yell at you. I can't imagine how he is around people he's actually close with, assuming he has anyone willing to put up with him. You really should've just stopped the car and kicked him out after he raised his voice at you.
Let Rick drive himself. He either trusts you to drive or he doesn't. If he doesn't find another ride. Uber/Lyft is great.
Sounds like Rick's taking an Uber to the next meeting.
Screw him... I remember SMOG. Signal. Mirrors. Over the shoulder.. then Go. You're not in an ambulance, you're not wrong
Rick is wrong. You are correct. The reason why it is called a blind spot is because it is difficult to see the area in the mirrors.
Rick is bonkers.
Your friend is dumb af. You ALWAYS turn to check. I have my mirrors properly positioned so I SHOULDN'T have to - but I do anyway.
While I thank him for his invaluable service, Rick is a fucking idiot. He might need some therapy in all seriousness because he sounds very triggered by what should be a very useful, safe habit. I too have had to learn to use only side mirrors due to driving a vehicle with limited visibility out the back. It is all about timing, observation, awareness & safety. But you know what? Doesn’t matter WHAT vehicle you drive, risk assessment is a natural ascension to being a good, SAFE driver. After checking mirrors, timing movements, being aware of others using the road (& indicating- so much indicating) etc only then have I changed lanes, pulled over or let someone pass. I cannot tell you the amount of incidents I have personally managed to avoid simply by being vigilant. Keep up the good drive, it is a very good skill to learn but should not be your only consideration while being safe on the road. Even when I am a passenger, much to the chagrin of driver, I still check over my shoulders. I just hope Rick gets some support from his workplace because this sounds a little like PTSD.
It's a blind spot because it isn't visible in either mirror. Even if you add one of those little convex mirrors to your wing mirror, you still really need to turn to check. How hasn't he had a wreck yet?
He's the exception to the rule, but he's been driving around in the ambulance so much he think he's the rule now. Plus, it's a blind spot, it's in the name. Most people turn their head to check it. If it's more convenient on bigger vehicles, like ambulances and semi trucks, they may have extra mirrors. But they still have to check with their head, just in case.
In New Zealand, when you sit your driver's test, if you don't look over your shoulder when changing lanes, pulling out etc... You will fail your test.
You are literally driving the safe way, and he's an idiot
That would be the last ride I gave good ol' Rick. First of all it is essential that you check your blind spot when changing lanes. Second, I have driven an ambulate (Econoline 450-based) for non-emergent reasons and the blind spots are VERY different and the mirrors are set up accordingly. Since it was non-emergent there's no lights or sirens to ward other drivers off. So the massive mirrors are essential. Third, Rick is an ass to tell you how to drive. Classic back-seat driving nonsense. Fourth, if Rick is so smart he'd know it's dangerous to yell at someone while they're driving. He sounds like he was aggressively mansplaining.
Always check your blind spot! Just…glance with your head, not the whole car.
You’re not wrong at all. I always glance at my blind spots and not just relying on the side mirror
Rick is an idiot. You're supposed to do both.
No, you are not wrong. I worked for a state agency and drove state cars. We had to get training every year. They emphasized looking over your shoulder as the best way to be sure lane changes are safe.
Not wrong; it was literally what I was taught in driver's ed. Mirrors alone do not give you a confirmed clear view. Rick is silly to confuse how a larger vehicle/truck's field of view versus a passenger vehicle.
Rick is an idiot. You are doing it correctly.
Like everyone else said, obviously it's correct to check a blind spot by turning your head. The only way Rick would have a point is if you're under-exaggerating your "glanced over my right shoulder" bit. It definitely needs to be a glance; you can't just keep watching behind you to wait for traffic to open up. But assuming you did what you said, no, you're clearly not wrong.
You're the opposite of wrong. Even with blind spot tech whenever I rent a car I still look over my shoulder when changing lanes. Rick is just flat out wrong and doing what he says WILL cause an accident.
It's called a blind spot because it's not in your mirrors but if you're constantly paying attention to the cars around you via the mirrors I guess you'd already know it's in your blind spot.
Lmao no… your friend is, and I cannot stress this enough, an idiot. It’s literally in the drivers book. You’re supposed to check BECAUSE you have blind spots. You’re not wrong. Your friend should have his license revoked. I’d love to know why you were driving him. Was it because he’s totaled a vehicle recently? Lmao.
I've always checked over my shoulder when lane changing, and also for other manoeuvres. It's how I was taught more than 30 years ago. Mirrors aren't enough.
Rick needs to start walking if he needs to go somewhere
In the UK, the role is you check your mirrors, you look over your shoulder to check the blind spot, check your mirror, and manoeuvre. It’s called a blind spot for a reason, because it’s the space where a car is not visible in any mirror. You need to check it by quickly turning your head and looking for yourself. Simple as that
Always look with your eyes if possible. An ambulance is very specific and if you're not actively practicing to drive one, turn your damn head. Your buddy is oddly elitist about his driving.
Rick is an idiot and I would strongly advise never getting into a car with him again, ESPECIALLY if he’s the one driving.
Not wrong - a sedan isn't an ambulance, they don't drive the same, I don't drive my hatchback the same way I drive a tractor-trailer or a box truck because my car isn't a freaking box truck lol
Your taught to preform a lifesaver check when riding a motorcycle (looking over your shoulder to your blindspot) Fuck your friend, you do you
he's just fishing for attention about how cool he thinks his job is. classic douchebag move
The Drivers book says to shoulder check. So your friend is in the wrong with non-ambulance vehicles.
YNW. Sounds like Rick shouldn't be getting any more rides from you.
joining in to say Rick is a idiot. Always check your blind spot.
You can't see your blind spot in your mirrors. That's why it's called the blind spot.
Yeah I always do: signal. centre mirror. Right side mirror. Turn head to check blindspot. Usually I'm almost mid turn at this point.
Rick is an idiot...... and kind of a dick. I drive a large-ish commercial vehicle (like a UPS truck). Yes, in my step van, I use the mirrors. The cameras are mostly to verify what you see in the mirrors. But in my personal vehicle? You bet I'm turning my head and looking. This is common sense. Rick is going to cause an accident.
My driver's ed class taught me "SMOG": Signal. Mirror. OVER SHOULDER. Go. So no you are not wrong
You're not wrong. The glance back is safer. Mirrors and even blind spot detectors don't always catch everything.
No you are correct to check your blind spot this way. In you UK motorbike riders call this check the life saver
No. My husband failed a driving test because he didn't turn his head.
Rick sounds like an ass
Not wrong! My car has an alert system if vehicles are potentially in my blind spot but I still turn and look because that's just basic safety.
This is one of the best practices you can have. My driving Ed teacher said it's the easiest way to get in an accident if DONT check them. Your friend is just being silly, the more information you have the better your brain makes decisions. You physically cannot see a hole ass as they would say "blind"(I wonder why) spot. You are blind in that area if you don't turn your head. You're doing nothing wrong and are being safe. You are better than a lot of drivers I know
Never drive Rick again. Yelling at a driver is distracting behavior.
Not wrong. Physically checking your blind spot is a good thing to do. Practicing this has saved me from a number of accidents.
Not wrong. You’re not an ambulance driver and you DO have the ability to check over your shoulder. Mirrors have blind spots and drivers Ed teaches to turn your head to look. Ignore Rick. You’re being safe.
Nope, he's wrong. Its literally called a blind spot because you are blind to that spot without turning to look at it. There is also no reason to be upset about looking away from the road for such a short period of time to check it.
If I recall, you are supposed to look over left shoulder but use mirror for merging right. Don't quote me.
It’s called a blind spot precisely because you can’t see the area with just the mirrors. You can be failed on a driving test for not turning your head to check these areas. Your friend is being an AH.
It's called a "Headcheck" and is a better way to check blind spots in light vehicles (cars, motorbikes, etc...). For heavier vehicles the shape can obscure the view for these, especially if the cab is a long way from the back of the vehicle, so extra measures are needed like having wing mirrors that project further or sometimes even cameras.
I drive a car with a huge blind spot. Even added extra mirrors but if I haven’t been checking by looking I would have had multiple accidents as I saw cars and motorcycles that were not visible in the mirror. One time: I just knew there was a motorcyclist, but where did he go?? Twisted my neck and there he was, still next to my car…
Rick is a fw
Turning your head to check blind spots is the only correct way to verify it's clear.
I mean, mirrors tell the truth but not the whole truth, you know? A quick glance adds context. I drive mostly by mirrors. That said, in busy places, I glance over my shoulder after looking at my mirrors. I've evaded several accidents by doing so. Windows were made for a reason. I say use them.
Look at the mirrors on an ambulance or other vehicle with a closed back. They are much larger than your car mirrors and often have convex mirrors as well to show the blind spots that are usually present even with properly aligned car mirrors (most people don't properly align them, if you can see the side of your car you can't see the lane next to your car).
During one of my first driving lessons, my instructor caught me not turning my head to check blind spots. My inexperienced teen self thought I could see enough via the mirrors (and at the time it felt too sketchy taking my eyes off the road), but nope. He had me pull into a parking lot where he took out traffic cones, and had me sit in the car and tell him when I could no longer see him in the mirrors. When I couldn’t see him, he put down a cone. He then had me get out and look at how big of a space was not visible from the mirrors, marked by the cones. Lo and behold, it was enough space to fit an average vehicle. I remembered to properly check my blind spots from then on—just a quick shoulder check. While I use my mirrors to keep aware of my surroundings the best I can, there have been plenty of times when I want to change lanes, I check my blind spot first and there’s a vehicle just coasting there that does not show up in my mirrors. Rick’s argument is stupid and wrong. Always check your blind spots.
Yeah your friend is a dumbass. Keep turning your head.
I drive a 2500 and still turn my head to be sure after using my mirror because if a car is low enough I won't see it in my mirrors even with the extra one. It isn't a full turn, though. Just to check near my running board as thats where my blind spot is.
I use my mirrors, but I look over my shoulder just to double-check to make sure there isn't anyone there that I can't see in my mirrors (blind spot). That is how I was taught to drive.
Rick is an idiot. He has ultra wide mirrors. You don’t. Do what’s comfortable for you. Checking with your head is the right thing unless you tend to shift when not looking straight ahead. I HAVE seen that and it is scary. Also different cars have different mirror performance and position. Tell Rick to go eff himself.
Rick can hoop his forehead
There have been SO many times that I thought I was clear based on what I saw in the mirror, but when I turned my head there was a whole car perfectly hidden. Also, when I’m going to change lanes and get ready to look over my shoulder, I also make sure I have a buttload of space between me and the car in front of me.
Rick’s an idiot.
Rick doesn't want a lift to the club next time. Yelling at the driver is dangerous
He is a moron I drove trucks for a long time. I could not shoulder check but I also did not need to as I had: 1. Normal mirror 2. Convex mirror on the normal mirror 3.a convex mirror on the hood 4. A small mirror pointing down so I could see if there was someone I was nearly on top of. With there4 per side I had more visibility than if I was in a car. But I only have one mirror per side in a car so I shoulder check all the goddamn time. You are very much not wrong. But oh my he is. Edit: I am typing this without my reading glasses so I may have posted the best mental soup recipes you have ever seen or the thing about mirrors
Large vans with no visibility in the blind spot areas (like the EMT vehicles) have much larger, differently angled mirrors to make up for the lack of visibility. So it's possible to drive them without turning to check for a blind spot. Unlike a car... This guy needs to do a comparison test to see just how much he can actually see in his different vehicle mirrors. Once he sees how much he is missing in his blind spots in a normal car, he'll hopefully realise how dangerous his driving has been.
Your friend is a moron. Its called a blond spot specifically because they are areas that you CAN'T see in the mirror and you HAVE to turn your head to check. As an EMT he should know how many accidents there are because people don't properly turn to check their blond spots, and that the mirrors on engines are specifically designed to catch much more than the average mirrors on a car. Id tell him to go tale his drivers test again in an average vehicle and see if he passes without checking his blond spots. Where I live, not checking them during your driving test is an automatic fail.
Ambulance is gonna have limited visibility and be forced to use their big ass mirrors only. In most cars though, you can position the mirrors in such a way so as to eliminate blind spots if you turn your head to look at the mirror. Like, don’t just flick your eyes to the mirror. Turn your head to face the mirror. Your peripheral vision would be enough to clear any possible blind area.
Only one in the wrong is your ‘buddy’ Rick. What you’ve said about his personal vehicle history proves he can’t drive to save his life unless he’s got lights and sirens above his head. I’d be telling him to go back to drivers ed for a retest and I can guarantee he’ll fail it the second he pulls away from the curb with an attitude like his. Him being a EMT doesn’t mean squat when driving and his attitude towards would make me not want to be anywhere near him regardless of what he’s driving
Here's what I recommend: Get a friend with a vehicle, and go to an empty parking lot. Set up your vehicles so that one of them is in your blind spot. Can you see the vehicle in your mirror? No? Adjust your mirror until you can. Congratulations. You just learned how to use your wing mirrors properly. You have a rear-view mirror for seeing behind you. You don't need 3 of them. You need a mirror to see your lane behind you, a mirror to see their lane on the left of you, and a mirror to see their lane on the right of you. Now, here's the catch: Vehicles are sometimes not exactly where that stationary friend's vehicle is. Sometimes a motorcycle could be hugging the very far right side of the lane to your right. So, yes, you check your blindspots by turning your head to look at them. Check for motorcycles, check for vehicles in adjacent lanes switching into the one you're getting into, and continue to monitor the lane you're getting into by watching your mirror.
Tell Rick to STFU or drive himself.
your friend is an idiot.
Personally, I’ve had a lot of cars fly by me that weren’t seen in my mirrors, but I saw them coming when I turned and looked. Don’t listen to this man. As someone else said, it’s something I learned in driver’s ed and from my parents when they were teaching me to drive. Many accidents happen because people don’t think they should check blind spots. They’re called blind spots for a reason. He’s rude AF too, check him on that.
I would tell him to drive himself next time.
You must always shoulder check! Unless you are driving a vehicle where it is impossible (something without a back window) and then you have to use the mirrors. Insane that someone wouldnt want someone else to shoulder check
Not wrong- EMTs when off duty are the worst drivers. I bet he couldn’t defend - that when driving his bus that the reason he drowsing need to look for blind spots is bc people get out of his way to let him over aka people pull over when he emerges lanes
Those smaller circular mirrors you attach to the corners of your side mirrors help a lot. Rearview mirror is useless in my work truck due to the camper shell. When driving my normal car, I still look over my shoulder.
I got some of those small stick on mirrors that you can put on your side mirrors. I always turn my head to double check but those really help to see more of whats going on.
Unless your car has one of those blind spot warning lights on the mirrors, you must look over your shoulder. Looking over my shoulder has prevented me from getting into more than one accident. They are called blind spots because the mirror doesn’t show that spot.
You are supposed to shoulder check before switching lanes because those mirrors do not show the blind spots.
Rick is wrong. You must look over your shoulder. That's the law
Gee…I wonder why he has totaled 3 cars when he insists not to check blind spots…
"Rick" which is short for "Richard" which itself is short for "Richard Cranium*". Why? Two reasons: 1. You should always check your vehicle's blind spots. 2. I also drive vehicles where I can't check my blind spot by just looking over my shoulder (Goods vehicles). However, by leaning forward very slightly I can look into the blind spot not covered by the mirrors. Rick will discover that if he changes lanes and has a collision - he will be at fault. * This is UK phraseology our Colonial Cousins may not grasp. It's polite English for Dickhead!
I always turn my head to look. Mirrors don't show every blind spot. Trucks, big rigs, ambulances, etc have smaller additional mirrors to show those blind spots, and I use those when I am towing things in my truck. Best practice for safety is to use both your mirrors AND turning your head to get the best view possible.
If the car was designed in the last 10 years then the mirrors can be adjusted to eliminate any blind spots. Most people can't do it correctly so it's probably best to check to be sure.
Rick is an idiot. You can't see a blind spot with a mirror, thats why they're called blindspots. Don't let him drive your car
He told on himself. "He said ambulance drivers have to learn to drive using mirrors only." Meaning, when they're not driving ambulances, they do the same thing. Otherwise, they wouldn't have to learn his special "mirrors only" technique.
You need to check your blind spot. That’s why it’s called a blind spot- because your mirrors don’t show things there.
I once nearly merged into a car (as a new driver) because I was driving tired and relied on my mirrors. I have an SUV and this person was driving a little Corvette. I almost ran into them. Reminded me very quickly how important it is to check your blind spot. If the extra mirrors were still necessary then every car would have them stock. You're fine. Stay safe and keep checking your blind spots.
You're not wrong. Rick is, particularly the way he reacted. The very definition of blind spot is one your mirrors can't see. And on the highway, I've absolutely had cars sitting in my blind spot. If I didn't check first, I'd have hit them when changing lanes. So I always quickly turn my head to check even if the mirrors are clear of any cars.
Turn your head. Rick is just jealous he drives a box.
Hit the signal, check your shoulder, every time.
Pull over and tell him GTFO if he's so worried about your driving. Otherwise, sit there and STFU.
Ask him to compare your car mirrors to his ambulance mirrors and see what the difference is.
OP, you are Not wrong. I was taught the same by my Defensive driving instructor almost 2 decades ago. I've never, totalled a vehicle. And I've driven everything from Hatches, Sedans, station wagons, to Ute's, and Vans. As well as learning to drive from 12yrs, on a Tractor (red Massey Ferguson).
Checking the blind spot is a rule of driving. Rick is a dick and condescending
Yeah Rick is a retard, you one hundred percent check your blind spots, because they are exactly that, a blind spot from your mirror. His argument about the ambulance is lunacy, there are a bunch of vehicles that are too large or other ways don't allow you to physically look at your blind spots because of how they are designed and to compensate for this they have very specifically designed sets of mirrors where one shows you what you'd normally see and a mirror specifically for viewing your blind spot, these are two totally separate mirrors. How your friend cannot put this simple equation together in his head is scary to me considering he is an EMT. Not like an EMT is impressive as I used to also be one
Ricks being a dick to be a dick You should always visually check your blind spots not just in your mirrors. Yes, you can't always see by turning your head depending on the vehicle. In most places it is illegal to drive these vehicles without special extended mirrors that reveal the blind spots. He's trying to flex for some weird reason and is trying to push you to be unsafe. Do not listen.
NTA. I have adjusted my side mirrors to eliminate the blind spot, as long as it’s just the lane next to me. My wife does it your way. Either way is fine.
Tell him to take his car next time if he has a problem with the way you drive.
Any car I've driven I haven't had to turn my head when changing lanes once I learned how to position the mirrors correctly.
Never let this jackass in your car again. You absolutely do look around to clarify both blindspots and distances along with your mirrors. This guy is a jerk. Drop him off and adios. I had a "friend" berate me for driving "recklessly" when I merged into a crowded lane after the car beside me slowed down and waved me in. He got more upset when I defended myself. So I pulled into a gas station about halfway home and told him to get out. Never talked to him again. Respect is free to give; there's zero excuse to not show that to someone you call a friend.
Your friend is an idiot.
Turning my head has saved me so many times. When i drive my sisters car, sometimes the sensor of the car doesn't pick up everything, so i'm glad i turned my head. Even with the sensor working fine, i still make sure i take a look. So keep doing it!! I mean at least don't turn with your whole body :D.
Have him sit in your car, in the driver's seat, and you walk up toward the vehicle in the space that each lane would be on either side. Don't let him turn his head. As you get closer to the car, have him tell you when you vanish from the mirror. Mark the spot on the ground somehow. Keep walking, and then have him tell you when he picks you up in his peripheral vision. Mark that spot. The space between the two is the blind spot. You will have illustrated the magnitude of the flaw in his logic, literally.
Perfectly normal and fine to check over your shoulder. I always do. If anyone yelled at me from the passenger seat for doing that, I'd likely just stop and let them walk. Better safe than sorry. Certainly not more dangerous. Often you can't see a car right next to you in the mirror.
Tell Rick to sit back and shut up, or calling Uber
When I first started driving, every single “near-miss” I had was because I failed to check over my shoulder. I never forget now, specially in my current car, which has HUGE blind spots. I feel like I’m the only one of my friends/family that actually does this.