Before changing lanes, what should you do to combat the effect of the blind spot?

Before changing lanes, what should you do to combat the effect of the blind spot?

• A. Check your mirrors
• B. Turn and look over your shoulder
• C. Signal then speed up
• D. Look through the window while changing lanes

Answer: (B)

Turning and looking over your shoulder is essential because blind spots are areas you can’t see in your mirrors. Even with properly adjusted mirrors, another vehicle can be hidden there, especially when traffic is close or a smaller vehicle is present. A quick shoulder check confirms the lane is clear before you move. After this check, you can signal and merge if the lane is safe. Relying on mirrors alone isn’t enough, and simply speeding up after signaling doesn’t verify the lane is free; looking through the window without turning your head won’t reveal the blind spot.

Turning and looking over your shoulder is essential because blind spots are areas you can’t see in your mirrors. Even with properly adjusted mirrors, another vehicle can be hidden there, especially when traffic is close or a smaller vehicle is present. A quick shoulder check confirms the lane is clear before you move. After this check, you can signal and merge if the lane is safe. Relying on mirrors alone isn’t enough, and simply speeding up after signaling doesn’t verify the lane is free; looking through the window without turning your head won’t reveal the blind spot.