What can failing to check traffic before changing lanes lead to?

Answer: D — Both a bad habit and a cause of accidents.

Failing to check traffic before changing lanes is a critical oversight that can significantly increase the risk of accidents, making it a dangerous driving behavior. When a driver neglects to properly check their surroundings, they may not be aware of vehicles in adjacent lanes, particularly those in blind spots. This lack of awareness can lead to collisions with other cars, which is why it is often cited as a leading cause of traffic accidents. Moreover, consistently neglecting this essential precaution contributes to the development of bad driving habits. Good driving should always include thorough checks of the traffic conditions before making any lane changes to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Therefore, acknowledging that failing to check traffic is both a bad habit and a frequent cause of accidents captures the full scope of the implications of this behavior. Understanding these dangers reinforces the importance of safe driving practices.