I don't know if its me (probably is) are there any mirrors to improve visibility and distance gauging? I have a bigger problem with the distance gauging I have the stock mirrors on the side with those little convex mirror thingies attached to get a wider angle but I feel there is room for improvement. Any pointers tips or ideas?

 

The best solution for side mirrors is to adjust them correctly. Most people don't have them correct and cause accidents eventually. To adj the D-side, put your head against the left window glass and adjust the mirror out till you lose sight of the body panel. Then move to the center, against the console, and adjust the right mirror the same way. When this is done right, you will not lose sight of approaching cars, their being in both rear view and side mirrors simultaneously fro a few seconds. If you have trouble backing up and bumping things, get bumper flags. Ha!
You should get rid of the convex things, they're made for trailers with obstructed views; not for cars. They give you a distorted perspective, thus some of your trouble with distance. They ain't magic !!

 

I am mine so when I'm sitting my most comfortable position, I see the very rear of my fenders. Seems to work okay. I also have REALLY good peripheral vision and overall awareness. And I'm not just saying that. I've been with many drivers, etc. etc. and at the age of 22, some of them surprise me on how they drive.

Perhaps it's due to the defensive driving classes I've taken so many times (some of them court ordered when I was younger).

If you are alert when you drive and know who/what is around you, you'll be fine even with limited 'mirrors'.

 

exactly! finally, someone who actually does it right. side mirrors should be aimed at your "blind" spots. blind spots are your own fault IMO, because you have the ability to eliminate them. why see the same car behind you in 3 mirrors? makes no sense. now, 3 cars can be seen at the same time, 2 of which you possibly could have run off the road had you not used your side mirrors wisely.

as for the distance thing, it's not really necessary to see a car that is reasonably distant from you. as long as you can see a car behind you riding your rear, and can see cars in your blind spots, you're doing your job behind the wheel.

as for backing up, you shouldn't be using your mirrors. as per driver's education (mandatory in my state), grip the passenger head rest with your right hand, and while steering with your left hand, physically WATCH out the rear view window while driving in reverse gear. even with extremely dark window tint, you can see a wall/car/person/littleperson/trashcan/whatever.

 

^^^

True! When backing up it is actually easier to turn around and look through the rear window yourself. Sometimes when conditions are bad like when it is rainy or foggy using your side mirrors and rear view mirror makes things worse.