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How to judge the width of a car while driving

I’ve just moved to San Francisco and found that my street is terribly narrow. At this point, I’ll be surprised if I make it another week without clipping a mirror. How can I judge the width of my car while driving?

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Max Werner · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Phew—that seems like a stressful morning commute. As with any skill, judging the width of your car takes practice. But with a few tips, you’ll be a pro in no time.
For one, do not rely exclusively on your side mirrors. When driving, try switching between looking over your shoulder and looking forward. Focus on where your vehicle meets the edge of the road, and apply this knowledge to what lies ahead.
Another tip is drive cautiously. This may seem obvious, but it’s best to lower your speed and analyze your next move when in a tight situation. You also decrease possible damage if you do accidentally overstep your lane.
Lastly, find practice in an open lot. Place objects directly to the right or left side of your vehicle. Use safe obstacles like traffic cones to get comfortable with your vehicle’s width. As drivers, we often forget it’s never too late to brush up on old skills—this is a great option if you have a free afternoon.
In the meantime, know that
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