Practice question

Which of the following statements describes the correct way to check blind spots before a lane change?

  1. Rely on rear-view mirror only
  2. Honk your horn
  3. Speed up quickly
  4. Head-check to left or right

Answer: D — Head-check to left or right

Before changing lanes, you must actively scan areas your mirrors can’t show. The best method is a quick head-turn to look over your shoulder in the direction you plan to move. This head-check reveals vehicles, cyclists, or other hazards in your blind spots that your rear-view and side mirrors may miss. Relying solely on mirrors can leave those areas unseen, which is why a physical shoulder check is essential. Honking or speeding up don’t provide the necessary visual confirmation and can create new risks or startled drivers. So, turning your head to look left or right before changing lanes is the proper, safest way to ensure the lane change can be made SAMPLEsafely.

Practice more: Michigan Drivers Training Segment 1 Practice Test →