Which action is part of performing a proper lane change?

Which action is part of performing a proper lane change?

• A. Check blind spots only after completing the lane change
• B. Check mirrors, signal, check blind spots, and execute the lane change smoothly
• C. Immediately accelerate into the next lane
• D. Rely on other drivers to detect your intentions

Answer: (B)

Proper lane changes come from signaling your intention and carefully clearing your path before you move. Start by checking your mirrors to know where traffic is behind and beside you. Then use your turn signal to show others which way you plan to move. After signaling, look over your shoulder to check your blind spots, because not everything shows up in the mirrors. If the lane next to you is clear, smoothly steer into that lane and maintain a steady speed, finishing the maneuver in a controlled, predictable way. This approach keeps you and others safe by ensuring you don’t move into a space that’s occupied or reacting too late. Moving into the next lane before checking blind spots or after you’ve started the lane change can lead to collisions. Accelerating into the next lane abruptly reduces your control and surprises other drivers, and relying on others to notice your intent isn’t a safe practice—you must communicate your plan and verify the lane is clear.

Proper lane changes come from signaling your intention and carefully clearing your path before you move. Start by checking your mirrors to know where traffic is behind and beside you. Then use your turn signal to show others which way you plan to move. After signaling, look over your shoulder to check your blind spots, because not everything shows up in the mirrors. If the lane next to you is clear, smoothly steer into that lane and maintain a steady speed, finishing the maneuver in a controlled, predictable way.

This approach keeps you and others safe by ensuring you don’t move into a space that’s occupied or reacting too late. Moving into the next lane before checking blind spots or after you’ve started the lane change can lead to collisions. Accelerating into the next lane abruptly reduces your control and surprises other drivers, and relying on others to notice your intent isn’t a safe practice—you must communicate your plan and verify the lane is clear.