All vehicles provide adequate windshield glass so a driver can see the road ahead. But what about watching out for what’s going on beside and behind the steering wheel?

In many cockpits, roof pillars block lateral and rear vision to such an extent that they form significant blind spots. And even a convertible with the top raised has a blind spot as big as a bulldozer.

To change lanes with any confidence that you won’t crunch another car running in the adjacent lane, a prudent driver’s neck must assume attributes of Silly Putty.

Yet blind spots can be zapped with the AllView Mirror.

This unique panoramic rearview mirror takes the place of an existing center-mount interior rearview mirror and it installs easily thanks to universal fitting.

Its reflective surface, shatterproof and vibration-free, creates an ultra-wide reflected field of vision so the driver may peer not only rearward but also to each side. The view is so wide you can see cars in the lane beside you — or keep an eye on rowdy kids riding in the rear seat.

But here’s a word of caution: The mirror requires an attitude adjustment for the driver because its image shows a much wider field of view, including the scene well beyond side windows.

Also, since the AllView Mirror exaggerates distances, objects reflected by the mirror appear farther away than they actually are.

The AllView Mirror comes from Brookstone for $59.95. To get one, specify item #498717 when calling 866-576-7337, or buy it online at www.brookstone.com.