When considering lane changes, what is necessary for ensuring safety?

Ensuring safety during lane changes involves a comprehensive approach that includes both checking mirrors and blind spots. This is crucial because while mirrors provide visibility of the areas beside and behind your vehicle, they do not account for every potential hazard. Blind spots are areas that are not visible in the mirrors, and other vehicles or obstacles can be present in these zones.

By checking mirrors, drivers can gauge the speed and proximity of vehicles around them. However, to complete a safe lane change, it is essential to physically look over both shoulders to verify that no obstacles or other vehicles are present in the blind spots. This practice minimizes the risk of collisions and contributes to safer driving. Therefore, both checking mirrors and blind spots is the most effective strategy to ensure safety when changing lanes.