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Convex Mirrors: Everything you need to know about

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Driving without rear view mirrors can be quite dangerous since you do not know what is behind your car. However, the mirrors used in cars are not the regular mirrors that we usually use at home. It is a different variation called convex mirrors. There are a few properties of convex mirrors that make them ideal to be used as rear view mirrors. If you are keen to know why they are used as rear view mirrors in vehicles, here is all that you need to know.

Understanding what a convex mirror is

A convex mirror, also known as a diverging mirror or a fish eye mirror, is a type of curved mirror. In this, the reflective surface of the mirror bulges towards the light source. They primarily reflect the source of light outward, thus, aren’t used for focusing light. It is this nature that makes it ideal for rear-view mirrors. Due to the bulge towards the source of light, the mirror is able to capture a lot more of the surroundings as compared to a flat mirror or a concave mirror. Also, it is important to note that the image of an object in a convex mirror is usually smaller than they are. However, as the object approaches the mirror, it gets much larger.

Pros of convex mirrors

Convex mirrors are the most widely used mirrors in automobiles, and for good measure. Here are some of the advantages of choosing convex mirrors in vehicles.

1. Lesser blind spots

While driving a vehicle, a blind spot is an area of the road that you cannot see due to some reason or the other. Because of its wider curvature, a convex mirror increases the viewing angle, thereby reducing blind spots.

2. Wide view

Due to their design, convex mirrors happen to offer much better visibility of the surroundings. Because it covers a wide area, it aids the driver of the car in deciding with relative ease when it comes to switching lanes or exiting a road, or merging into a road.

3. Better safety

Since the driver of the car can view a lot more of the surroundings, it improves the safety of the car and its occupants. The presence of convex mirrors can reduce the possibility of accidents by a considerable margin.

Difference between flat mirrors and convex mirrors

Cars use convex mirrors as rear-view mirrors. Due to their wide range of visibility, it improves the field of view, when a driver looks in the mirror. Thus, enabling the driver to make manoeuvres on the road relatively easily. However, convex mirrors have a shortcoming, as they tend to distort the images to some extent. Here are some of the differences between a flat mirror and a convex mirror.

1. Flat Mirror

Flat mirrors allow only for a single line of vision, in general. And if you were to use flat mirrors as rear view mirrors on the highway, you would only be able to view one lane and not multiple lanes.

2. Convex Mirror

Convex mirrors offer a much wider angle of view when used as a rear view mirror. Also, convex mirrors allow drivers to view other vehicles that are adjacent to your vehicle.

The workings of a convex mirror in cars:

Most of the vehicles have a small inscription on the bottom of the mirror, “Objects in the mirror are closer than they appear”. It is a major attribute of the convex mirror, which results in this declaration. Convex mirrors bulge towards the source of light. As a result, they offer a virtual image of the object or other vehicles on the road. However, this virtual image is smaller than the actual object. Thus, it creates a virtual image of more of your surroundings in the mirror.

Cons of convex mirrors in vehicles.

While there is little doubt regarding the benefits of convex mirrors in vehicles as rear view mirrors, they do have some demerits.

1. Viewing in the convex mirror can make it a bit difficult to assess the speed of vehicles behind you.

2. Due to their inherent nature, convex mirrors can distort the reflections a bit for the driver.

3. It can be a bit difficult to look at objects or vehicles in the distance on these mirrors.

While driving a car, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings and other vehicles on the road. Quite a few times, negligence by other drivers can also be the reason behind accidents. A car insurance policy can safeguard you and your car in such times. In the event of an accident, the policy will take care of any damage to your car.

If you want to make the most of the policy, a third party car insurance plan is a more sensible option. During claims, insurance providers deduct the rate of depreciation before settling the claim. Not in the case of zero depreciation insurance for a car.

Tips for using convex mirrors in vehicles

Convex mirrors in cars are extremely important, as they let the driver see what is behind him or her with comparative ease. Here are a few simple tips that will aid you in extracting the most out of your mirrors:

1. Always position the mirror at a proper angle. Getting a clear and wider view of the surrounding area is advisable.

2. Adjusting the mirror to the surroundings gives you a better view. Therefore, you must change your height and seating position as well. Once your seating is positioned, you can align the convex mirror accordingly.

3. Convex mirrors can be used with flat mirrors to get a wider angle. However, you must adjust the angles accurately, especially regarding the speed and distance of the vehicle.

While a rear view mirror can help you get a better view of what is behind the car, it might not be able to protect you always. For that, third party car insurance is a more reasonable option. Apart from meeting the mandatory requirement of the law, a vehicle insurance policy offers a lot of other benefits. For starters, you need not pay hefty penalties for driving without insurance. During accidents, you can claim your comprehensive insurance for your car to get the repairs done. It also protects your car against natural calamities, theft, vandalism, etc.

Conclusion

Convex mirrors are used in vehicles for their inherent property of providing a wider viewing angle. And using them will enhance your overall driving experience and reduce the chances of an accident. However, for ultimate protection against accidents and other unknown mishaps, buying a car insurance policy is more prudent.

FAQs

1. Why is a convex mirror used in the rear view mirror?

A convex mirror used in the rear view mirror provides a better angle. It forms the virtual and erect diminished image which can help to get a wider view of the area.

2. Are convex mirror cars legal in India?

As of now, not all car models are permitted to have convex mirrors. Before you purchase a car with a convex mirror, it is advisable to check with the authorities. Moreover, you will also have to consider this if you want to install convex mirrors in your vehicle.

3. Can convex mirrors be used on both sides of the car?

Convex mirrors are mostly used for the passenger’s size. It forms a very diminished and distorted image which can often affect the driver while riding. It is advisable to get the convex mirrors installed towards the passenger side after discussion with authorities.

4. What type of mirrors are best for cars?

Whether you're using convex mirrors or concave mirrors, it completely depends on your personal preference. Convex mirrors provide a wider field view, whereas concave mirrors offer a larger image size. Before you install either of these mirrors, it is advisable to thoroughly test the car and determine the driving visibility for these.

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