What is the correct sequence for a safe lane change?

What is the correct sequence for a safe lane change?

• A. Signal first, then check mirrors and blind spots.
• B. Check your mirrors, look over your shoulder to check blind spots, signal, then move smoothly.
• C. Brake hard, then merge into the other lane.
• D. Turn the steering wheel sharply and switch lanes quickly.

Answer: (B)

Safe lane changes rely on building awareness of surrounding traffic, then communicating your intention before you move. First, look in your mirrors to gauge how fast nearby vehicles are and where they are. Next, perform a shoulder check to verify there’s no vehicle in your blind spot that your mirrors can’t cover. If the lane appears clear, signal to alert other drivers of your forthcoming move. Then, once you’ve confirmed it’s safe, steer smoothly into the new lane and maintain control, avoiding abrupt steering or changes in speed. Choosing to signal before you’ve checked your blind spots can mislead other drivers if you discover it’s not safe to move. Braking hard to force a lane change is dangerous and improper, and turning the steering wheel sharply for a quick switch creates instability and increases the risk of a crash.

Safe lane changes rely on building awareness of surrounding traffic, then communicating your intention before you move. First, look in your mirrors to gauge how fast nearby vehicles are and where they are. Next, perform a shoulder check to verify there’s no vehicle in your blind spot that your mirrors can’t cover. If the lane appears clear, signal to alert other drivers of your forthcoming move. Then, once you’ve confirmed it’s safe, steer smoothly into the new lane and maintain control, avoiding abrupt steering or changes in speed.

Choosing to signal before you’ve checked your blind spots can mislead other drivers if you discover it’s not safe to move. Braking hard to force a lane change is dangerous and improper, and turning the steering wheel sharply for a quick switch creates instability and increases the risk of a crash.