Saskatchewan Driver Education GDL Class 7 Learner Practice Test

What is a safe practice when preparing to change lanes?

1. Checking mirrors only

2. Using turn signals and checking blind spots

3. Only watching the vehicle in front

4. Speeding up to ensure you have enough space

The correct answer is: Using turn signals and checking blind spots

Using turn signals and checking blind spots is essential for safe lane-changing. This practice ensures that you are communicating your intentions to other drivers, which is crucial for preventing accidents. Turn signals provide a clear indication of your intended movement, thus alerting other road users, allowing them to react accordingly. In addition to signaling, checking your blind spots is vital because mirrors alone do not cover all areas around your vehicle. Blind spots are those areas that are not visible in your mirrors, and it’s necessary to physically turn your head to ensure there is no one in those areas before changing lanes. This comprehensive awareness significantly reduces the risk of collisions with vehicles that may be in a position where you cannot see them while using mirrors. The other options lack comprehensive safety measures required during lane changes. Checking mirrors only does not account for adjacent vehicles located in blind spots. Watching only the vehicle in front does not consider the lateral movement of other vehicles, and speeding up could dangerously reduce your reaction time while also potentially causing issues with merging traffic. Therefore, combining proper signaling with thorough checks of your blind spots is the safest practice when preparing to change lanes.