Final answer:
Defensive drivers should check their mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds to stay aware of their surroundings. Diverging mirrors are used in vehicles for a wider field of view, but have the downside of making objects appear smaller and further away.
Step-by-step explanation:
Defensive drivers typically check their rear view and side mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds. This practice helps maintain awareness of the surrounding traffic conditions and potential hazards. It is a critical component of safe driving practices. If we consider situations where a driver is under observation, such as being followed by a police car, their behavior might be more cautious and attentive, including frequent mirror checks. Similarly, driving principles suggest that being observant of one’s surroundings at all times can prevent accidents, like the scenario where a sudden celestial event like a full moon's rise could potentially distract a driver.
In the context of vehicle design, diverging mirrors or convex mirrors are often used for rear-view mirrors because they provide a wider field of view compared to flat mirrors. This allows the driver to see more of the road behind them and to detect vehicles in their blind spots. However, a major disadvantage of using diverging mirrors is that they make objects appear smaller and further away than they actually are, which can sometimes lead to misjudgments of distance and speed.