To change lanes you should:
- Check your mirrors and signal, then change lanes.
- Signal, check your mirrors, check your blind spot in the direction you plan to move, then change lanes. ✓
- Signal, check your mirrors, and change lanes.
- Signal and change lanes.
Answer: B. Signal, check your mirrors, check your blind spot in the direction you plan to move, then change lanes.
To change lanes, you should signal, check your mirrors, check your blind spot in the direction you plan to move, then change lanes.
Why this is the answer
The handbook describes blind spots as areas near the left and right rear corners of your car that mirrors and peripheral vision do not show. It says that before you move to change lanes on a highway, pass, or make certain turns, you must turn your head to be sure those areas are clear. Signaling first tells others what you plan to do, and the head check covers what the mirrors miss, so the lane change is safe.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Check your mirrors and signal, then change lanes. — Checking mirrors and signaling is not enough, because the handbook says mirrors leave blind spots you can only clear by turning your head.
- C. Signal, check your mirrors, and change lanes. — Signaling and checking mirrors skips the head check the handbook requires before moving into another lane.
- D. Signal and change lanes. — Signaling alone tells other drivers your plan but does not verify that the lane you want is actually clear.
Remember it
Mirrors show most of the picture, but your neck finishes the job: turn your head toward the lane you want before you move.