What should a driver do if they need to change lanes and there are cars following closely behind?

Answer: D — Wait until it is safe to change lanes

When a driver needs to change lanes and there are cars following closely behind, the prudent course of action is to wait until it is safe to change lanes. This means ensuring there is sufficient space and time to maneuver without forcing other drivers to adjust their speed suddenly or making the road situation unsafe. Changing lanes too quickly or without ensuring it's safe can lead to collisions, especially when other vehicles are closely following. By waiting for an appropriate gap in traffic, the driver can make the lane change in a controlled manner, which contributes to overall road safety. This approach also demonstrates good judgment and awareness of surroundings, which are crucial skills for any driver. In contrast, accelerating to create distance could lead to reckless driving or unintended speed changes that might confuse other drivers. Using hand signals can be helpful in certain situations, but it does not address the fundamental need for safety and sufficient space. Merging without signaling is a dangerous practice that can lead to accidents and is against traffic laws. Overall, prioritizing safety by waiting for the right moment is the best strategy in such a scenario.