What is an important step before starting long trips in a vehicle?

Checking and adjusting mirrors before starting long trips is crucial for ensuring safe driving. Proper mirror adjustments allow the driver to have a clear view of the surrounding traffic, including blind spots, which helps in making informed maneuvers and maintaining awareness of other vehicles. This step is particularly important in larger vehicles, such as those driven with a commercial driver’s license, where visibility can be more limited.

In addition, adjusting mirrors can help prevent accidents by reducing the chances of sideswiping other vehicles or missing the presence of pedestrians or cyclists. Ultimately, taking the time to ensure that mirrors are correctly positioned enhances overall safety for the driver and others on the road.