When is a truck required to have a passenger side mirror?

A truck is required to have a passenger side mirror when the rear view mirror is obstructed. This requirement is in place to enhance safety by ensuring that the driver has a clear view of the area behind and beside the vehicle, which is critical when changing lanes or merging traffic. An obstructed rear view mirrors can create blind spots, making the passenger side mirror essential for minimizing potential hazards. The intent behind this regulation is to promote safer driving conditions and prevent accidents.

The presence of the passenger side mirror provides an additional means for the driver to monitor surrounding traffic, significantly improving situational awareness. This is particularly important for larger vehicles like trucks, which may have larger blind spots and reduced visibility compared to smaller vehicles.