Mastering Your Mirrors
Build safe observation habits using the MSM routine, understand what each mirror shows and learn when a blind-spot check is essential.
Use MSM before changing speed or direction
Effective observation is the foundation of safe driving. The MSM routine helps you gather information before acting.
Check your mirrors first, signal when it would benefit another road user, then carry out the manoeuvre safely.
What each mirror tells you
Different mirrors provide different information, so use them together rather than relying on only one view.
Interior mirror
This is your main rear-view mirror. Because the glass is flat, it gives a true impression of the speed and distance of following traffic.
- Check it first for the big picture behind you.
- Use it before braking or reducing speed.
- Return to it regularly to maintain awareness.
Door mirrors
Door mirrors are slightly curved to provide a wider view. This means vehicles can appear smaller and further away than they really are.
- Check the mirror on the side you intend to move towards.
- Use them before turning, changing lanes or moving position.
- Allow for the altered sense of distance.
Your mirrors do not show everything
Areas hidden by the vehicle bodywork are called blind spots. Before moving off or changing lanes, use a shoulder check to look into the area your mirrors cannot cover.
When to check your mirrors
Mirror checks should happen before your actions, not after them.
Before signalling
Check first so you know who may benefit from the signal and whether it is safe to continue.
Before braking
Know what is behind before slowing down, especially if another vehicle is following closely.
Before turning
Check the interior mirror and the door mirror on the side you intend to turn towards.
Before changing position
Check the relevant mirrors and blind spot before moving out, changing lanes or returning to the left.
Before opening a door
Check for cyclists and other road users. The Dutch Reach can help you turn and look behind before opening the door.
After a manoeuvre
Check again to rebuild your awareness of traffic behind once the manoeuvre is complete.
Use the Dutch Reach before opening your door
Use the hand furthest from the door handle. This naturally turns your upper body towards the window and makes it easier to check behind for cyclists, motorcyclists and passing traffic.
Mirror check → Look over your shoulder → Open slowly
Driving Mirror FAQs
What does MSM stand for in driving?
MSM stands for Mirrors, Signal, Manoeuvre. Check your mirrors first, signal when it would benefit another road user and then complete the manoeuvre safely.
Which mirror should I check first?
Start with the interior mirror to understand the overall situation behind you, then check the relevant door mirror for the side you intend to move towards.
Why do vehicles look further away in door mirrors?
Door mirrors are usually convex, which gives a wider field of view but makes vehicles appear smaller and further away than they actually are.
When do I need to check my blind spot?
Check the relevant blind spot before moving off and before changing lanes or moving into an area that the mirrors cannot fully show.
Should I check mirrors before braking?
Yes. Checking before braking helps you understand how closely another vehicle is following and allows you to slow down progressively when possible.
What is the Dutch Reach?
The Dutch Reach means using the hand furthest from the door to open it. This turns your body towards the window and helps you check behind for cyclists and other road users.
Continue through the learner driver guide
Review your observation routines between lessons and make mirror checks part of every decision you make on the road.