SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-look-through-rear-window

While backing, should you rely only on mirrors and a camera?

No, look behind through the rear window too.

  1. Yes, mirrors show everything
  2. No, turn and look behind ✔
  3. Yes, if backing slowly

Why: Mirrors and cameras have limited views. Turn to look behind, while also glancing to the sides and front for changing hazards.

Huh, didn't know that: New York's manual specifically says to look through the rear window, not the mirrors, while backing.

The dad joke
The rear window got the job because it had a clear background.
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References

Answer: No, turn and look behind. Mirrors and cameras have limited views. Turn to look behind, while also glancing to the sides and front for changing hazards.

  1. New York State Driver's Manual dmv.ny.gov/brochure/MV21.pdf
    Look through the rear window, not the mirrors, when you back up.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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