Why is it important to check your blind spots before changing lanes?

Checking your blind spots before changing lanes is crucial because it allows you to detect vehicles that may not be visible in your mirrors. Mirrors provide a limited view of the area surrounding your vehicle, and blind spots are those areas that cannot be seen in your mirrors. If there are vehicles in these spots, changing lanes without checking could lead to collisions as these vehicles may be in a position to merge into the space you intend to occupy. Therefore, making the effort to glance over your shoulder and check your blind spots enhances your awareness of your surroundings and contributes to safer driving practices.

The other options do not address the specific risk associated with blind spots. For instance, ensuring there are no cars in front of you does not relate to blind spots since that area is typically covered by the front view and mirrors. Gauging the speed of passing vehicles is also important but does not directly tie into the dangers of hidden vehicles in your blind spots. Lastly, confirming that traffic lights are green pertains to intersections and does not involve lane changes or monitoring adjacent lanes. Thus, recognizing the importance of blind spots is vital in maintaining safe lane transitions on the road.