Before making a lane change, what should a driver do?

Before making a lane change, it is crucial for a driver to check mirrors and blind spots. This procedure ensures that the driver is aware of their surroundings and can safely merge into the adjacent lane without putting themselves or other road users at risk.

Checking mirrors provides information about the traffic conditions behind and alongside the vehicle, while checking blind spots accounts for areas that are not visible in the mirrors. This comprehensive assessment helps to identify any vehicles or obstacles that may be nearby, allowing for safer maneuvering. Ensuring that the lane is clear prevents collisions and enhances overall road safety.

In contrast, signaling without checking mirrors could lead to unsafe lane changes, as the driver would not be fully aware of the traffic situation. Only signaling after merging ignores the critical step of assessing the area before moving, which can increase the likelihood of accidents. Accelerating into the new lane without checking first can also create dangerous conditions, as it does not allow the driver to gauge the speed and distance of approaching vehicles. Thus, properly checking mirrors and blind spots is the safest and most responsible approach to changing lanes.