What's the "extra" side mirror thing on police vehicles?

Question

You know cars have a side mirror on each side of the car? well duh. Anyways, most police cars around me have this extra mirror type of thing on the driver's side. It rests right near the left side mirror and is just a bit smaller than the side mirror.

I've been trying to get a definite answer on what exactly is this thing and what it does.

My guess would be some type of radar/laser gun to check speeds.

Could anyone confirm this?

Answer 1

Are you referring to a spotlight??

Answer 2

it is most likely a spotlight

Answer 3

Henry how can you be so dumb? This is the light we flash into space to off set your police jammers...........It's a spotlight Henry!!

Answer 4

It's a spotlight, here's a link to one of the main manufacturers-

http://www.unityusa.com/

- David

Answer 5

That is not a side mirror.  It is a spotlight that they turn backwards while driving so it does not get broken by flying gravel etc.

Answer 6

It's not a mirror, it's a hand maneuvered spot light.