Giving yourself space and time is important as it gives you a "buffer" of safety around you.

There is an area that you cannot see in your mirrors and this is known as the 'blind spot'.

If you need to see in the blind spot, for example if you are changing lanes then 'kiss the parrot'.

I try and imagine a vulnerable road user in that blind spot and so that causes me to check it.

Being aware of what is around you and 'kissing the parrot' when needed.