When should you always check your rearview mirrors?

• A. Whenever your foot comes off the gas, before it gets to the brake
• B. Only before changing lanes
• C. Only when you hear a horn
• D. Just before parking

Answer: (A)

Whenever your foot comes off the gas, you should check your rearview mirrors. This habit keeps you aware of traffic behind you as you slow down, so you can gauge whether the car behind you is closing in and adjust your speed or stopping distance accordingly. By scanning early, you reduce the chance of a sudden stop or a rear-end collision and you’re better prepared for any driver reacting to your deceleration.

Relying only on checking before changing lanes misses many situations where traffic behind matters. Waiting to react to a horn is too late for safer driving, and checking only just before parking ignores the ongoing need to monitor traffic while you’re driving and decelerating.