What is a 6 Point Check?
A 6 point check is a structured and systematic observational routine used in driving to ensure a comprehensive awareness of the vehicle's immediate surroundings. This method helps drivers to identify potential hazards and maintain safety by covering all crucial areas around the car.
Understanding the 6 Point Check in Driving
This essential observational routine is particularly vital before performing maneuvers such as changing lanes, turning, or pulling away from a parked position. By systematically checking six specific points, drivers can gain a complete picture of traffic, pedestrians, and other obstacles that might not be visible through standard mirror usage alone.
The Six Key Observational Points
The 6 point check involves a rapid, sequential scan of the following areas:
| Point No. | Observation Area | Purpose/Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Left Blind Spot | The area to the immediate left of the vehicle that is not visible in the left door mirror or through the windows, often obscured by vehicle pillars. Requires a direct head check. |
| 2 | Left Door Mirror | Provides a view of the traffic and surroundings directly to the left side of the vehicle, particularly useful for monitoring vehicles in adjacent lanes. |
| 3 | Centre Mirror | Offers a clear view of the traffic directly behind the vehicle, essential for understanding the flow of traffic approaching from the rear. |
| 4 | Road Ahead | A primary focus point to assess the immediate path, traffic conditions, road signs, and any upcoming hazards, ensuring a clear and safe route forward. |
| 5 | Right Door Mirror | Provides a view of the traffic and surroundings directly to the right side of the vehicle, crucial for lane changes or turns to the right. |
| 6 | Right Blind Spot | The area to the immediate right of the vehicle that cannot be seen in the right door mirror or through the windows, often hidden by vehicle structure. Requires a direct head check. |
The Importance of Blind Spots
A blind spot is defined as any area around a vehicle that cannot be seen by the driver through the use of the rearview or side mirrors, or is obstructed by the vehicle's structural components (like roof pillars). These areas pose a significant risk, as other vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians can be entirely concealed from the driver's view. Integrating direct head checks—a brief look over the shoulder—for both the left and right blind spots is therefore a fundamental part of the 6 point check, ensuring no hidden surprises before making a move.
Why This Routine Matters
Regularly implementing the 6 point check significantly enhances a driver's abilities and contributes to overall road safety:
- Enhanced Situational Awareness: Keeps the driver thoroughly informed about their immediate environment, including potential threats from all directions.
- Increased Safety: Minimizes the risk of collisions by identifying unseen vehicles or vulnerable road users before maneuvers.
- Improved Driver Confidence: Allows drivers to execute maneuvers with greater assurance, knowing they have comprehensively assessed their surroundings.
- Proactive Driving: Helps drivers anticipate potential issues, enabling timely adjustments and responses rather than just reacting to developing situations.
This systematic routine is a cornerstone of defensive driving, encouraging drivers to be proactive and analytical about their surroundings to ensure a safer journey for themselves and others. Learn more about effective defensive driving techniques.
