Which action is appropriate before changing lanes?

Which action is appropriate before changing lanes?

• A. Signal, check mirrors, and check blind spots before changing lanes.
• B. Change lanes immediately without signaling.
• C. Check only the mirrors.
• D. Check only the blind spots.

Answer: (A)

Before changing lanes, you need to clearly communicate your intention and ensure the lane you want to enter is safe. The best approach is to signal to alert other drivers, then check your mirrors to see vehicles behind and in the adjacent lanes, and finally check your blind spots by glancing over your shoulder toward the lane you plan to enter. Signaling gives others time to react to your move, while mirror checks show traffic in viewable areas, and blind-spot checks catch vehicles that aren’t visible in the mirrors. Relying on only one of these steps leaves a gap: you might miss a car in your blind spot or a car approaching from behind. So combining signaling, mirror checks, and blind-spot checks provides the most complete awareness before moving over. After confirming, adjust speed as needed and complete the lane change smoothly.

Before changing lanes, you need to clearly communicate your intention and ensure the lane you want to enter is safe. The best approach is to signal to alert other drivers, then check your mirrors to see vehicles behind and in the adjacent lanes, and finally check your blind spots by glancing over your shoulder toward the lane you plan to enter. Signaling gives others time to react to your move, while mirror checks show traffic in viewable areas, and blind-spot checks catch vehicles that aren’t visible in the mirrors. Relying on only one of these steps leaves a gap: you might miss a car in your blind spot or a car approaching from behind. So combining signaling, mirror checks, and blind-spot checks provides the most complete awareness before moving over. After confirming, adjust speed as needed and complete the lane change smoothly.