By Lexi Allen

Are the accessories from your rearview mirror distracting you from driving?  Is it illegal or legal in America?  What do you think about having mirror accessories hanging from your rearview mirror?  Here’s a look at some of the answers.

Many students that attend Atlantic High School have “cool” accessories hanging from their rearview mirror because it shows their sense of style or describes their hobbies or activities.  On the other hand, some students that don’t have mirror accessories think they are a distraction while driving and cause a blind spot.  Sophomore Karly Monson says she has no mirror bling in because she thinks one would cause a distraction to her driving, no matter how bulky or large the item may be.  Junior Travis Small says he is used to his air fresheners hanging from his mirror and learns to look around them while driving.

While driving in town or on the highway, many people would never think of being pulled over by a police officer that would tell them to take their mirror accessories down.  On the website hometownsource.com, Sgt Curtis S. Mowers, a Minnesota State Patrolman, says he is constantly being asked questions about accessories hanging from rearview mirrors.  Sgt. Curtis S. Mowers said it is illegal for people to have anything suspended between the driver and the windshield of their car.  This includes fuzzy dice, pictures, jewelry, numerous personal objects, and handicapped signs.  He believes it is a critical issue that needs to be taken in perspective by all drivers if they want to have a safe trip in their car.

Next time you get into your vehicle, think about if its really worth the risk of having your personal accessories in the car that distract you from the road.