How often should a learner check their mirrors?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of regularly checking mirrors, especially in busy traffic. This practice is crucial for maintaining awareness of the surrounding environment, which includes knowing the positions and movements of other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Regular mirror checks help a driver react appropriately to potential hazards and avoid dangerous situations.

In busy traffic, where conditions can change rapidly, keeping an eye on mirrors allows the driver to assess gaps for safe maneuvers and to anticipate any actions from surrounding road users. This proactive approach contributes to safer driving habits and enhances the overall defensive driving strategy.

Other options suggest less frequent or inappropriate mirror checks. For instance, checking mirrors only during lane changes does not account for the constant changes that can occur in traffic. Similarly, stating that mirrors should never be checked is fundamentally flawed, as it would severely impair the driver's ability to monitor important surroundings, ultimately increasing the risk of an accident. Regular mirror checks become a vital skill that every learner driver should practice to build a foundation for safe driving habits.